IMAGINE: Exploring the brave new world of shared living

"IMAGINE: Exploring the Brave New World of Shared Living" is a report and initiative developed by Space10, IKEA's innovation lab, to address the evolving housing crisis and reimagine how people live and share spaces in urban environments. The concept highlights shared or co-living spaces as a solution to housing affordability, urbanization pressures, and changing demographics, particularly among millennials and single-person households. The initiative combines design, technology, and community-building to create affordable, flexible, and socially enriching living arrangements. The report is structured into two primary sections: the first examines the necessity of shared living in response to challenges like urban population growth and housing shortages. The second offers practical guidelines for implementing co-living systems effectively. It emphasizes leveraging digital platforms, 3D printing, and blockchain technology to streamline operations and design personalized, adaptable co-living solutions. These tools aim to disrupt the traditional housing industry by enabling more efficient and community-oriented models. IMAGINE also delves into the broader cultural and demographic trends driving the appeal of co-living in Europe, such as the preference for communal experiences over ownership, the rise of remote work, and increased demand for sustainable urban living. By fostering a balance between private and communal spaces, shared living spaces are designed for long-term social and environmental benefits. The initiative aligns with the European trend of creating connected, flexible housing options that offer cost-efficiency, combat isolation, and promote a sense of belonging.