What is cohousing?

Cohousing stands apart from other shared housing or communal living models.

Learn the the six characteristics that make up its unique structure and principles.

The true beauty of cohousing is best discovered through the wisdom of those who have shaped it.

Trust the visionary who quite literally wrote the book on the movement. Explore Charles Durrett’s books and media to uncover the transformative power of community, connection, and inspired living.

The Story of Cohousing

Though the word “cohousing” may be relatively new, it is not a new concept. Learn more about cohousing’s origins and how it came to North America.

Reshaping Communities with a Purpose

Our mission is to transform the concept of shared living into tangible realities where connection, collaboration, and sustainability take center stage. Find out more about our process that takes your vision to reality.

Our Dedication to Designing Housing for All

We are deeply committed to creating spaces that improve the lives of those who need care and consideration. Learn more about our mission to create spaces that are inclusive, supportive, and nurturing for everyone.

The Cohousing Company brings its expertise to architectural consulting, helping clients create vibrant, functional, and sustainable spaces.

Whether designing Accessory Dwelling Units to enhance housing options, enhancing cohousing communities to be affordable and energy-efficient, or crafting childcare centers that nurture both children and caregivers, we specialize in turning thoughtful design into thriving practical spaces that enrich the lives of those who call it home.

Teaching the principles of community architecture and participatory design.

Innovative solutions for affordable housing, mixed-use projects, public buildings, and institutional and educational infrastructures, are just a few of Charles Durrett’s teachings. Learn more about all the course adoptions we offer.

Fall 2026: Charles Durrett tours the UK

The United Kingdom has been steadily building momentum around cohousing, with more groups forming, projects underway, and growing interest. The UK Cohousing Network is providing these groups with the expert knowledge these groups need.

Learn more

READ: Architectural record reviews what we can learn from solheimar Ecovillage

This article by Archectural Record does a beautiful job shining a light on Neuro-Inclusive Community Design, highlighting how thoughtful design has the power to support real human needs.

Read now

Listen: Out of Denial, Into Community: Quimper Village

with Carolyn and Jack Salmon

In this episode, Charles Durrett sits down with founding members Carolyn and Jack Salmon to unpack how their senior community in Washington went from a church meeting to a finished neighborhood with 28 homes in just three years. They talk about getting out of denial about aging, the "no green bananas" urgency that kept the group moving.

Listen now