In an interview with mt/Sprout, our founder Zjef Bogers speaks about the wonders of shared living. Find out why the shared living concept is working so well.

In recent years, housing prices have raised steadily in many Dutch cities. Young professionals are facing difficulties with finding suitable and affordable housing. In line with the growth of the sharing economy, shared living and co-living projects are fast gaining in popularity. Holland2Stay offers shared-living and co-living at the two Twin buildings in Amsterdam. In an interview with Mt/sprout, Zjef explains why this concept is winning ground.

Shared living and co-living residences come in all shapes and forms. While having a private bedroom, residents share the common living spaces (kitchen, living room, and bathroom). At most Holland2Stay buildings, residents share communal areas and amenities with others. For example, The Lee Towers includes a communal cinema and gym and Rive Republic incorporates a small café and mini-market. These communal projects are gaining popularity as hotspots for millennials in big cities. According to Zjef, shared living and co-living communities attract an increasing number of people, as these projects provide several advantages such as cost savings, convenience, and community.

Shared living room in Rive Republic.

#1 Cost savings

Many millennials are having a hard time finding a place to live because their income is too low for a mortgage and too high for social housing. Zjef explains that the concept of shared living and co-living appeals to starters and young professionals. The monthly rent of a modern and well-maintained studio or room in a shared living complex is comparable to the rent of a smaller, less well-maintained, private apartment in the city. Plus, you get more facilities with shared living. In shared living projects, tenants get access to a launderette, gym, theater, lounge area, catering, parking, and sometimes even shared cars. This makes shared living very attractive: living at such accommodations is relatively affordable without sacrificing any luxury.

#2 Convenience

Zjef also explains why this is not just a trend or by-product of the housing shortage. Shared living is popular with the new generations because of ease and comfort. ‘We manage the facilities, take care of the furnishing and maintenance of the residences, and take care of the utilities. All tenants need to do is unpack their suitcases upon arrival.’

#3 Community

Also, the shared facilities of shared living and co-living projects are the best way to meet new people. ‘This helps young professionals who have moved to a new city and are trying to start a new life.’

Shared cinema in The Lee Towers.

Want to know more?

Interested to read more? You can read the full (Dutch) article on MT/sprout here. Are you interested in living in one of our shared living or co-living projects? Check the availability of our rentals here.