22/09/2026
HOUSING BEYONG THE INDIVIDUAL: COLLABORATIVE HOUSING, A RESPONSE TO THE HOUSING CRISIS
The Dutch housing market is under significant pressure. Affordable homes are scarce, while many existing homes no longer meet the needs of today’s households. Starters, single-person households, and older people in particular struggle to find suitable housing. Housing Beyond the Individual explores how collaborative living can respond to these challenges.
Collaborative housing combines private homes with shared spaces, facilities, and responsibilities, encouraging residents to contribute to their living environment. Besides affordability, it can promote social interaction, community, and social cohesion.
The research focuses on Roermond, a medium-sized municipality where demand for smaller, affordable homes is increasing, alongside the growth of single-person households and loneliness. Through case studies, policy and literature research, resident surveys, and spatial analysis, the study develops an urban design for the Spoorzone.
The masterplan proposes an inclusive, car-free residential area with different forms of collaborative housing around shared green courtyards. The research demonstrates that collaborative living can support affordability, social cohesion, and a more sustainable, future-proof city.
