Christiania Co-Op Housing
Shared living space for opportunity to socialize outside of just work and school... A home more than one family.
This Co-Op housing, situated in Christiania, Denmark, extends the local spirit into private residences by embracing shared living and equality within public spaces. The design incorporates various transitional spaces, ranging from private to semi-private and public, shared among five families. These communal spaces include a main kitchen, lounges, a movie area, and a dedicated kids' playing space featuring a slide and pole. This approach fosters a sense of community and emphasizes the principles of shared living within the housing complex.
Program: Co-Op housing of 5 families
Location: Christiania, Denmark
Year: Fall 2023
Studio: Architecture Design/ Jacob Nørløv
Situated in the free town of Christiania, where laws are absent, residents not only live in the same place but also live together in a unique communal setting. The community collaborates to support one another, creating an isolated haven from the judgmental world. In Christiania, individuals have the freedom to build anything they desire, provided they take responsibility for its upkeep, resulting in a community characterized by distinctive people and arts.
Located on the waterfront, this project strives to serve not only the residents within but also connect them to the broader community. By bridging the gap between internal and external spaces, the design fosters a sense of connection and integration within the unique cultural context of Christiania.
The sectional perspective adeptly illustrates the transitional spaces within the overall community. It visually guides through the shared communal areas that connect the five families residing in the co-op housing, then transitions further into the private spheres of individual family units and ultimately into each person's room. This perspective provides a comprehensive view of the spatial hierarchy, emphasizing the seamless flow from the collective to the individual within the housing structure.
Beneath the building, the existing biking path is retained and extended, reflecting the ethos of sharing space within the community. The residential structure is elevated, generating a space below and in front of the water. This design not only extends the communal spirit but also creates a sheltered roof that wasn't initially present. The utilization of the space below the building adds an additional layer of functionality, blending seamlessly with the surroundings and contributing to the shared experience of the community.
Beneath the building, the existing biking path is preserved, extending the community's ethos of shared space. The residential building is elevated, forming a space below and in front of the water. This innovative design not only reinforces the communal spirit but also introduces a sheltered roof that was not originally envisioned. By embracing the space beneath, the project enhances the environment, fostering a sense of inclusivity and shared experience within the community.
In the Co-Housing project, a central common area is designed for children to gather, play, and watch movies. Simultaneously, it provides a space for adults to engage in conversations and enjoy potluck gatherings. An open rooftop offers the opportunity for planting greenery, hosting barbecues, and enjoying a scenic view of the waterfront.
The individual housing units for five separate families comprise two main floors with an intermediate height that differentiates semi-private and private spaces. This design balances communal living with the need for personal privacy, creating a harmonious and adaptable environment for diverse family dynamics.
