Barcelona’s housing market faces significant challenges, with high demand and limited affordable options. In response, the city has embraced alternative models to promote the creation of more sustainable, accessible and affordable housing solutions.
One such model is cooperative housing under transfer of use, commonly known as cohousing, which emerged in Barcelona in 2018 with the completion of the La Borda building in the Bordeta neighbourhood. Since then, a total of 19 cohousing projects have been completed or are under construction in various districts, including Ciutat Vella, Sants-Montjuïc (where there are more), Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, Gràcia, Nou Barris, Sant Andreu and Sant Martí.
Cohousing offers a more flexible, efficient, democratic and participatory approach to housing, making it a viable option for those seeking affordable housing. To give an insight into how this model works and to present each project in detail, the Municipal Institute of Housing and Renovation (IMHAB) travelling exhibition has made a stop at Espai Cooperatiu Bloc 4 in Can Batlló (located at Carrer de la Constitució, 19). The exhibition will run until the end of July and is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm.
Key characteristics of cohousing
The essence of cohousing lies in its departure from traditional housing models, starting with the project’s inception, which is driven by cooperative members. This ensures a democratic, participatory and transparent organisational structure.
Ownership of the building is collective, and residents have access to their homes through a right of use, which reduces the risk of speculation.
Once the building is completed and occupied, coexistence is based on community life and mutual support, and some projects encourage social return by allocating space to neighbourhood initiatives.