Almenr

Almenr, founded in late 2017 in Copenhagen, is a platform cooperative that facilitates the creation of co-living communities through a digital approach to baugruppen (building groups). The organization enables citizens to join forces in designing, financing, and building intentional communities with shared values and resources. With 14,000 members, Almenr connects like-minded individuals, helps them form communities, and guides them through the entire development process. Their platform functions similarly to a dating service for potential neighbors, matching people with similar lifestyle aspirations and community dreams. Fridlev, currently under construction outside Copenhagen, exemplifies Almenr's approach. The project involves 43 families organized into 14 teams who have collaborated for over a year. This community emphasizes shared cooking, cars, tools, and gardens with a commitment to circular living and sustainable architecture. Almenr's process includes four key stages: online matching of potential community members, co-design of the living space, formation of a legal building community (where members contribute 10% of financing while Almenr arranges the remainder), and finally construction through partnerships with companies like Enemærke & Petersen. Research indicates that such co-living arrangements yield substantial environmental benefits: 35% less water usage, 40% lower CO2 emissions, 80% fewer private car miles, and 60% less food waste compared to conventional living arrangements. By combining digital technology with cooperative principles, Almenr aims to disrupt traditional real estate development while revitalizing community-based living for the 21st century.