First Cohousing Community in Texas Builds a New Vision for Shared Living in Houston's East End

Kelli Soika, a mother of three, is currently helping in the building of Texas's first cohousing community in Houston's East End after experiencing seclusion from her neighbors in traditional neighborhoods. The transition from Austin to a Colorado cohousing development significantly altered the daily routine of her young family. The unique environment, which featured common spaces and activities, fostered a natural sense of support and connection among neighbors. Soika, motivated by that experience, collaborated with other families who shared similar values to establish Cohousing Houston, which is scheduled to commence operations in January.

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Cohousing provides private residences within a community-centered structure that includes shared spaces such as a communal kitchen, dining areas, gardens, and play zones. Townhomes are constructed around a central atrium at the 33-unit development located at 114 Delmar St. Each unit, comprising one to four bedrooms, offers a private area while fostering a communal ambiance. A large kitchen, coworking spaces, and a terrace with urban views are all included in the Common House, which is a crucial feature.

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Lynn Morstead, the founder of Cohousing Houston, stated, "This community facilitates communication." The community's objective is cultivating a supportive environment where residents can interact daily and share resources, such as carpooling and meals. A shared guest room enables members to accommodate visitors without the necessity of additional space in their own homes.

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The community's dedication to environmental responsibility is evidenced by sustainable features, including geothermal heating and provisions for future solar panel installations. Cohousing Houston is the first cohousing community in Texas and one of more than 150 in the United States. 

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This model will be used to guide future developments in the state. The community is already garnering interest from individuals who want a more collaborative lifestyle and a closer connection to their neighbors, as there are only eight units remaining.

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