A Modern Village in Vancouver
Vancouver Cohousing
A vibrant, multi-generational community where neighbours share meaningful connections, common spaces, and a sustainable way of life.
A Healthy Blend of Privacy & Community
Cohousing communities consist of privately owned homes in addition to
extensive common areas. They are designed by residents who choose to live
in a close-knit neighbourhood with meaningful connections.
Resident-Designed
Members participate in every stage of planning and design, creating spaces that truly reflect community needs.
Self-Managed
Residents manage their own community, performing much of the work required to maintain both the property and the social fabric.
Shared Living
Common meals, shared amenities, and regular gatherings solve problems, develop community policies, and bring people together.
31 Homes, One Community
Vancouver Cohousing consists of 29 privately owned, fully equipped homes plus 2 rental units, in addition to a large and beautiful common house and outdoor common areas. This vibrant community is located on 33rd Avenue between Victoria Drive and Knight Street.
We moved in on March 1, 2016. The homes range from studios to one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom units — all with their own kitchens. The common house has an area of 6,500 sq ft.
The housing is inclusive, family-supportive, senior-friendly and energy-efficient. By working together, members share amenities common to a traditional home and reduce the size of their private dwelling.
Designed by Community, for Community
The project was designed by community members and facilitated by Ankenman Marchand
Architects, based on the early work of the Vancouver Cohousing Getting it Built Workshop
with architect Chuck Durrett.
"More cohousing communities have been launched as a result of this workshop than by any other means."— Chuck Durrett, Architect
Living the Cohousing Dream
We've happily settled into our homes and community at 1733 E. 33rd Ave. Four years after the first public meeting at the WISE Hall in February 2012, Vancouver Cohousing became a reality, with move-in at the end of February 2016.
With most kitchens facing into the courtyard, and other ways the architecture supports connection, we're in touch with who's around and what's happening. We can drop in on each other at will — as long as a person's blinds are open, signaling our welcome.
We help each other, sharing vacuums, wheelbarrows, and sometimes vehicles. We share in carpooling kids to school, or help with care in emergencies. We are good neighbours, which is the whole idea of cohousing.
Our members come from all stages of life and ages, from under 1 year to over 80 — with a wide range of interests. We enjoy regular shared meals in the common house, with everyone taking turns to participate in cooking, cleanup, and in the upkeep of our common property.
The Common House
The heart of our community features a large dining room, kitchen, lounge, children's playroom, craft room, laundry, two guest rooms, workshop, bike storage, youth room, shared office, yoga studio, mountain-view roof deck and underground parking.
What Guides Us
Our Vision
To be an inspirational model of a cohousing community.
Our Mission
To create a multi-generational community that enables meaningful connection and relationships, allows space for authentic expression, encourages personal growth and generates a sense of safety and belonging.
Collaboration
Coming together to share in the joys and work of life and community. Practising reciprocity by offering and receiving: time, energy, support, and resources as we are able.
Generosity of Spirit
Celebrating and sharing the varied contributions within our community. Welcoming diversity and assuming the best intentions of each other.
Growing
Creating space to learn, make mistakes, and make room for different perspectives. Willingness to work through challenges and openness to understanding ourselves and others.
Stewardship
Nurturing an interconnected way of life that strives to balance social, financial, and environmental sustainability. Making decisions with consideration for the land and future generations.
Kensington–Cedar Cottage
Vancouver Cohousing is located at 1733 East 33rd Ave. between Victoria and Knight in Vancouver's Kensington-Cedar Cottage neighbourhood.
Our site is in a traditional neighbourhood and is walkable to vibrant Victoria Drive, with restaurants, cafes, and grocers. Amenities include the Kensington Community Centre, Famous Foods organic grocery, and many Asian markets.
We are steps away from two major bus routes, for easy access to downtown Vancouver, and in close proximity to the Skytrain. The 88 Supermarket is nearby. Trout Lake is within walking distance and the Kensington Community Centre offers many options including a pool and skating rink.