Solo but not alone; a co housing solution for single parents
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Publicerad
Författare
Typ
Examensarbete för masterexamen
Master's Thesis
Master's Thesis
Modellbyggare
Tidskriftstitel
ISSN
Volymtitel
Utgivare
Sammanfattning
This master’s thesis has explored how co-housing can be designed to support single
parents by both reducing overall housing costs and contributing to more
community, cooperation, and access to social safety nets. The background is that
single parents often have a weaker economic position, limited social networks, and
greater everyday responsibilities. This affects not only the parents themselves but
can also influence their children's well-being and future opportunities. Traditional
forms of housing are rarely adapted to their life situation, and there is a limited
range of housing options that promote sharing and community without
compromising privacy.
The work has been conducted through a research-based design process where
literature studies, statistics, surveys, reference projects, and study visits formed the
basis of the analysis. The results have been compiled into design strategies focusing
on reducing private living space in favor of shared functions, as well as creating
social areas that encourage spontaneous meetings and cooperation in everyday life.
The final design proposal presents a co-housing model where private apartments
are complemented by shared spaces for cooking, play, and social interaction. By
sharing resources and spaces, both construction costs and environmental impact
can be reduced, while providing residents with access to social support that can
ease everyday burdens. However, the intention was not to create an “isolated”
housing project solely for single parents, as a diverse residential environment is
considered valuable. By including both private and shared spaces for all residents,
the project aimed to strengthen the sense of community within the building while
also reducing housing costs.
The work demonstrates that co-housing can function as a daily social safety net,
provided that the architectural design balances community with the need for
privacy. An important conclusion is that co-housing should not be seen merely as a
niche form of housing but as a relevant alternative in a housing market where many
life situations currently lack suitable solutions. The study also emphasizes the
importance of creating housing with mixed target groups, where single parents,
older people, and other households can support each other in a shared
environment.
Beskrivning
Ämne/nyckelord
Co-housing, single parents,, community living