Here's a great conversation between Jnanavaca and Tejasvini about the creation of a visionary new project in Cambridge, UK. Part of Suvana Cohousing's vision is to create a multi-generational community, and also to provide some housing for Triratna retirees. For example, people who have lived many years in Buddhist communities but may need to have their own living space in retirement. And also younger people who struggle to find secure housing.
For anyone interested in this brilliant initiative - perhaps replicable in your own local context - now is a very good time to join Suvana Cohousing as a co-creator (only £20 per household per year). As a co-creator you can have an influence on the project, and get to know the other co-creators. Who knows? You may be living with them in future!
Suvana Cohousing are looking especially for people interested in buying a house or apartment in the new community. Many of those involved would like to live independently but as part of a Buddhist community. This model may appeal to a lot of other sangha members too, wherever they are in the world.
The exciting latest news is that Suvana Cohousing may have a site they can proceed with (a new build, not far from Cambridge city), which has a building timescale currently estimated to be four years.
What is cohousing?
Cohousing communities are intentional communities, created and run by their residents. Each household has a self-contained, private home as well as shared community space. Residents come together to manage their community, share activities, and regularly eat together.
Suvana Cohousing vision
We would like to live together ethically in a sustainable community of independence, beauty and creativity, caring for each other and sharing our lives and resources. Our community will be guided by Buddhist values. We plan to be open to anyone who shares the principles laid out in this vision statement, whether labelling themselves Buddhist or not.
- Value-based community
- Wider neighbourhood
- Location
- Community activities
- People
- Accommodation
- Sustainability
Read the full vision statement from Suvana