Shared Living Spaces

La Pinada Lab, located in Valencia, Spain, is an open innovation center that paves the way for future living. It is the first eco-district that is co-created by its residents. The center focuses on the sustainability of the urban environment by facilitating processes that tackle key contemporary challenges such as renewable energy, waste management, sustainable drinking water, smart mobility, accessibility, alternative construction methods, involvement of diverse populations, and more.

The Lab works alongside corporations, startups, administrations, and other stakeholders with the ambition of not only designing an inclusive, sustainable, and meaningful environment but to develop solutions that can be applied and scaled up in different contexts.

Acting as a backbone organization, La Pinada Lab facilitates processes to test, deliver, and implement solutions to support a more inclusive, cohesive, and conscious way of living in the community. This results in shared living experiences in urban density and efficiency for all involved audiences like customers, operators, and third-party service providers.

The lab is a 900 sqm. venue that is currently under construction and is scheduled for opening in mid-June. This space will support events and networking activities, workshops, operate as a testbed for pilot projects and other experiments, and serve as a showroom for advanced solutions and technologies.

To kick-off our 2020 Think Tank Partners, we present Cutwork. The multi-faceted studio, co-founded by Antonin Yuji Maeno and Kelsea Crawford, draws inspiration from cities we live in and the space between inhabitants. Cutwork is an award-winning team of architects, designers, engineers, and researchers, who devise innovative solutions surrounding the interactions and usages of space. Coliving and Coworking are among their solutions and together they design architectural concepts, interior spaces, and furniture for pioneering companies who reimagine how space is shared.

Cutwork believes that architects and designers need to shift perspectives on how to conceive and build space differently. As a result, sustainability, cohabitation, technology and urban development are among their main priorities on which they put their creative (and aesthetically satisfying) spin. SALTO KS was lucky enough to have the studio elaborate on their values and vision for the future. Read on to find out more about Cutwork and their forward-thinking design solutions for better communities.

On your (amazing) website you make the statement 'Together has changed.' Could you please elaborate on what this means?

Thanks so much! Yes, so as architects and designers we recognized more and more how our cities were built for a world that no longer fits with the ways people live and work today. We’ve seen a huge rise in lifestyles that are defined by independence, mobility, collaboration, decentralized networks, community, and sharing—yet our spaces and furniture have gone largely unchanged, stuck in outdated models of life.

The more we researched, the more we understood not only how fundamental these changes were, but how essential even more radical change will be to overcome some of the greatest challenges of the 21st century: How do we sustainably accommodate 1.2 billion more people on the planet by 2030? How do we avert a housing crisis when 70% of the world population is crowding into cities, driving even higher rental costs? How can architecture and design help overcome the current epidemic of loneliness and help build better communities?

Cutwork was founded to design spaces and innovative solutions to help overcome these challenges. To us, shared space is essential. Hence, our focus is not just on designing for how lifestyle has changed, or how work has changed, but for how ‘Together has changed.’

What motivated you to design for coliving and coworking spaces?

Coliving and coworking are emerging as two of the most promising solutions to help overcome these incredible challenges. We believe the future is built on shared space. Not only do they have awesome economic, environmentally sustainable, and community constructive potential, but more broadly, coliving and coworking are on track to be the most disruptive things to happen to real estate since the modern office tower and apartment block.

As architects and designers, this is a really exciting domain to work within. These kinds of shared spaces are largely uncharted territories. The norms and typologies of these spaces haven’t been highly defined yet, so there is a lot of room to innovate and design unconventional solutions that support these communities in more specialized and impactful ways.

Your studio determines the way people work and live in the coworking and coliving scenes respectively by designing the spaces and furniture. In what way has the relationship we have with working and living changed since you started out?

Work is becoming more and more decentralized but increasingly networked. We’ve had a close eye on how technology and access of knowledge continue to empower the rise of freelancers. In reaction to this explosive growth, the number of global coworking spaces has doubled since we’ve started. One of the key results we’ve seen from this wild competition is that spaces are differentiating themselves more and more specifically. In this regard, freelancers, startups, and remote workers have more options than ever to pick a space that fits and fulfils their own specialized needs. Thus, from the growing diversity of workspaces, work is getting easier and enabling success for this workforce.

In regards to changes to the ways we live, since we’ve started, we’ve seen coliving grow from a niche, self-organizing idea to it becoming a commodified service and lifestyle choice for millennials and the younger generations. Although it is only just emerging as a market, it is gaining momentum quickly. Coliving spaces will inevitably need to differentiate themselves from this incoming competition, and the range of options people will be able to choose from; supporting particular kinds of communities, or appealing to specific lifestyles—will only become more diverse and pronounced as well.

Are there a lot of requests for the implementation of technology in space design for coworking and coliving?

Yes! Technology is only becoming more and more integrated into our behaviours, decision-making process, navigation of space, and moment-to-moment lives. This is a common request and increasing necessity for players in the coworking and coliving markets, especially when it comes to using everything they can to help build their communities and integrating seamless interactions and usages of space.

What is your hope and vision for the future of coworking and coliving? Do you see SALTO KS in that future?

At this stage, coliving is still in its infancy—more of an experimental way to live and a market test than a proven scalable model for housing, sustainability, and urban development. Our work (and hope) is dedicated to designing these spaces in ways that will help unlock the full potential of this movement and enable it to become a primary model of housing in the years ahead.

In the long-term, we envision fully integrated inter-generational cohabitation spaces that maintain a careful balance between healthy, stable communities and relationships, but that is elastic enough to enable mobility and circulation of perspectives and chance encounters.

What are your plans for the next couple of years? How will you expand, changing the way we live and work even more?

Right now, we are focused on several shared space projects, scaling our team, and conducting one of the first Global Coliving Surveys to measure the impact coliving has on individuals, communities, and society. All current surveys are studying real estate finance and market competition, so we are going right to the source to give a voice to residents and understand what’s driving this movement. Our aim with the report is to advance the discussion around coliving and empower founders, thought leaders, legislators, and community builders to unlock greater potential of the movement. It’s exciting times, to say the least!

For more on the work of Cutwork, take a look here and don’t miss their Instagram.

Thank you, Cutwork Studio for collaborating with us on this edition of our Think Tank Partner series and we look forward to what the future of design in space has in store!

SALTO KS provides a flexible access control management system that requires no software installation or the added expense of a fully-wired electronic product. Modern cloud-based, wireless access control system is easy and simple to use for businesses including Coworking Spaces, Coliving Buildings, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, Retail, Multi-Tenant Housing, Gyms and many more. Our best in class wireless access control solution and smart locks guarantee the efficiency for your business. Integrate smart locks, start easily managing wireless access control now!

Today we are happy to welcome yet another new feature to the KS family. This addition to the Salto KS and KS Connect API enables building managers (Site admins) to create a small independent group of members named 'Pod'.

What is Pod from Salto KS?

With the new Pod functionality building managers get the chance to outsource access control management to their tenants. This feature will help keep an overview of their buildings' operations and save them a lot of time.

On the other side, tenants have the unique experience of managing access to their own space: A Pod can be a floor within a building such as an apartment or an office that’s managed by its Pod members (tenants) that have access to the Pod at all times and can invite guests to the Pod for specific timeframes.

By implementing this new feature, we aim to offload the responsibility of managing access for tenants and (their) guests for building managers and provide tenants with the unique experience of managing access to their own space.

Only a Site admin can create a Pod, on the main navigation menu where there’s a dedicated Pod page on which the option ‘Create a new Pod’ can be selected. To create a Pod you need at least one Pod member. The Site admin is able to create a Pod member by entering the name and e-mail address and if needed add more Pod members.

Next, the Site admin can select locks to which the Pod member may have access to, such as the front gate, apartment 201 and/or the storage room.

Benefits of Salto KS's Pod?

All Pod members automatically have Digital Key and remote opening rights. This means they are able to open the Pod's doors by tapping their phone to the lock or opening the door from a distance. Yes, even if they are located on the other side of the globe!

Once the Pod is created an invitation email is sent to the Pod members. Through this email, the Pod members can download the mobile app and register. After registration, the Digital Key and remote opening functionality will automatically be activated. The Pod's details will be shown on the dedicated Pod page.

By using the mobile app for iOS or Android a Pod member can invite, block or delete guests. The individual rights per guest in the guest overview can be viewed by Site admins from the Salto KS web app. Rights such as Digital Key, full access, which locks and when access is granted.

The Pod summary consists of multiple characteristics the Site admin can search on such as Pod name, amount of Pod members, amount of locks, amount of invited and active Pod guests. By clicking on one of these Pod characteristics the Site admin will land on the Pod detail page. On this page, several details are shown and actions can be taken.

Think of:

• Block or unblock guests
• Edit locks Renaming the Pod
• Deleting the Pod

At some point, you probably need to invite a guest to your Pod. A friend, customer or regular supplier for instance. A Pod member is able to invite a guest using the mobile app for iOS or Android. Once the Pod member invites a guest the guest will be shown as ‘Sign-up pending’ in the Pod members people overview screen until the guest registers.

The guest can register by accepting the invitation to download the app in the e-mail he/she automatically receives when the Pod member sends the invite.

There are some rules though. Until further notice guests can:

• Only use Digital key
• Only be invited through email
• Have the same access as the Pod members or limited access

The Pod member who invites the guest(s) can choose which locks guests can access and when they can access them. They also have the ability to block or delete guests from the Pod.

In the next phase, we aim to perfect the Pod feature even more. With more functionalities that we are sure will make lives around the world easier on a day to day basis.

Functionalities of Pod members section

• PIN creation from the mobile app by a Pod member
• Lock group implementation
• Privacy for tenants (hiding the information of Pod member's activity on Site owner/admin view)

Do you have a Pod related question? You might find your answer in the Support section.

Opening doors from your Today View screen? Read more about the Digital Key widget.

Follow our team on LinkedIn and Instagram: That way you’ll always stay in the loop of what’s going at Salto KS.

The Pod feature is supported on IOS version 4.4.2 & Android version 5.5.1 or higher.

All the above screens are taken from the Salto KS web app.

Salto KS provides a flexible access control management system that requires no software installation or the added expense of a fully-wired electronic product. Modern cloud-based, wireless access control system is easy and simple to use for businesses including Coworking Spaces, Coliving Buildings, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, Retail, Multi-Tenant Housing, Gyms and many more. Our best in class wireless access control solution and smart locks guarantee the efficiency for your business. Integrate smart locks, start easily managing wireless access control now!

When it comes to choosing the right access control system for your Coworking or Coliving space, certain features should be placed at the top of your wish list. Investing in smart locks will enhance security and convenience both digitally and physically. This is why it is crucial to keep in mind which features are essential when integrating such technology while implementing an access control system.

Read on to find out the must-have features that make a great access control system:

Read on to find out the must-have features that make a great access control system:

With an access control system, users should be able to assign people varying levels of access on an individual, group, or role basis. While this feature is standard on most access control systems, it is most essential in granting and restricting access.

With selective access, you can regulate which people have what kind of rights through certain entry points and are able to manage the amount of these entries.

With scheduled access, it is possible to limit entries to specific times within the day or week and even according to certain locations. This results in helpful functionalities like visitor access that can be scheduled in advance, granting access during the Christmas holidays, for example.

With scheduled access, it is possible to limit entries to specific times within the day or week and even according to certain locations. This results in helpful functionalities like visitor access that can be scheduled in advance, granting access during the Christmas holidays, for example.

An access control system makes it possible to create customizable reports which can be instantly generated. These reports provide detailed information for users regarding who is coming and going from any location. This detailed access log and event reporting comprises entries, users, and dates which can be exported to CSV or automatically emailed to relevant parties.

The dashboard of an access control system can display reports in real-time and for each entry. These reports can be customized according to specific parameters in order to present information ranging from doors being opened for too long to even unused or inactive users. This data can be used to monetize your space.

The dashboard of an access control system can display reports in real-time and for each entry. These reports can be customized according to specific parameters in order to present information ranging from doors being opened for too long to even unused or inactive users. This data can be used to monetize your space.

Cloud-based access control systems store permissions in the cloud which makes it possible to remotely manage, view, and control your access. This is possible using a web- or smartphone app whereby upon authorization, the user may operate the system through an intuitive interface.

Additionally, cloud storage for reports and events ensure backups that can be scheduled. This ensures that data is never compromised and is easily accessible.

Additionally, cloud storage for reports and events ensure backups that can be scheduled. This ensures that data is never compromised and is easily accessible.

For added efficiency, an access control system should be equipped with the potential for built-in integrations and third-party apps. This can be for cloud services including Office 365 and Active Directory, as well as tools relating to human resources, membership and facility software via API.

Some of these integrations can be an alarm, intercom, and video surveillance systems so all aspects of access control are managed through a single user interface which makes management easier and user-friendly.

Some of these integrations can be an alarm, intercom, and video surveillance systems so all aspects of access control are managed through a single user interface which makes management easier and user-friendly.

The ability to remotely unlock and schedule entries is vital in selecting access management systems. For instance, with the push of a button on a smartphone, access can be granted or restricted from any place and at any time. This is particularly useful for those with multiple-door facilities or multiple locations to control.

Remote visibility is another asset as it enables visual monitoring which allows video access or information through a web browser or mobile app.

Remote visibility is another asset as it enables visual monitoring which allows video access or information through a web browser or mobile app.

An access control system can be interactive through notifications in the form of alarm, email or text alerts to inform users of when an entry point has been accessed or rejected. Notifications will appear when a door is held open, forced open, and can even be limited to a specific door.

This feature can also be customized in order to make alarm notifications with specific sounds whereby one can differentiate between regular and urgent situations. Some systems even enable photo notifications which display photos of employees or residents as they pass through entry points.

Above features should be kept an eye out when researching and selecting the access control system that suits your requirements.

Not sure which access control system is suitable for your business? Contact us, we are happy to guide you on your way to the access control solution that's tailored to your business needs.

SALTO KS provides a flexible access control management system that requires no software installation or the added expense of a fully-wired electronic product. Modern cloud-based, wireless access control system is easy and simple to use for businesses including Coworking Spaces, Coliving Buildings, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, Retail, Multi-Tenant Housing, Gyms and many more. Our best in class wireless access control solution and smart locks guarantee the efficiency for your business. Integrate smart locks, start easily managing wireless access control now!

In celebration of #InternationalPodcastDay 2019 on September 30th, we have compiled a list of five podcasts that engage with Coliving news, organizations, innovations, experts, and advocates.

This day is dedicated to celebrating the power of podcasts and to promote networking within the industry including podcast hosts, listeners, enthusiasts, leaders, and newcomers.

The landscape of podcasts is versatile and rich, in both entertainment and news value which it provides its listeners. In addition to podcast hosting platforms, one can now listen to their podcast on virtually every platform or phone app, including Spotify, Apple, and Google. It is, therefore, no surprise that podcasts are branching out into contemporary issues and innovations, one of which is Coliving.

Read on to find out which podcast episodes and series made our list, who they are hosted by, and where you can find them:

1. Workationing

Title (Episode): The Workationing Podcast (Ep 24: Adventures in Coliving)

Host: Kari DePhillips and Kelly Chase

Where you’ll find it: Workationing.com, Apple Podcasts, SoundCloud, Stitcher, Spotify

Why we like it: The hosts, Kari and Kelly, discuss all the angles of Coliving one would hope for in their approximately 40-minute long episode ranging from money to consumers. Highlights include discussions centred around notable companies WeLive and Common, the ultimate coliving personality type, and a list of the worst and best-case scenarios that come with Coliving.

2. The Coliving Code Show

Title (Series): The Coliving Code Podcast with Christine McDannell

Host: Christine McDannell (with featured guests)

Where you’ll find it: Apple Podcasts, Listen Notes, Spotify, YouTube, SoundCloud, PodBean, Anchor, MyTuner

Why we like it: Unlike most podcasts which cover coliving in select episodes, this podcast show is dedicated entirely towards coliving. Additionally, it is also one of the most widely available Coliving podcasts, accessible across several platforms. The show is a passion project of Christine McDannell, the Co-founder of Kndrd, the first Management software platform and global directory for Coliving.

McDannell is knowledgeable about the Coliving movement, having published her first book on Coliving in 2018 by the same name, ‘The Coliving Code’. Episodes feature experts across the Coliving landscape and McDannell dives into social challenges and issues of modern society such as isolation and sustainability.

3. The Brick Underground Podcast

Title (Episode): The Brick Underground Podcast (Ep 2: Co-living)

Host: Emily Myers (with featured guests)

Where you’ll find it: Brickunderground.com, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Listen Notes, Player FM

Why we like it: In the second episode of the series, host Emily Myers breaks down everything needed to know about Coliving as a movement. This includes its role within the sharing economy and path towards a keyless and hassle-free housing model. The most engaging topic dealt with is that of legal issues associated with Coliving which Myers discusses with lawyer Michelle Itkowtiz, the founder of the Itkowitz law firm and creator of the Tenant Learning Platform. Listeners consequently gain insight into legal issues commonly associated with Coliving which they should be aware of before committing to space.

4. Dislocation — Real Estate Tech, Proptech, CRETech

Title (Episode): Dislocation (Ep 1: Coliving's Present, Past, and Future)

Host: David Friedlander and Dror Poleg

Where you’ll find it: Rethinking.re, Apple Podcasts, SoundCloud, Player FM, PodBean

Why we like it: The episode of this podcast titled, ‘Coliving’s Present, Past, and Future’, does not disappoint with its thorough and expansive overview of Coliving. Some of the questions dealt with include, What is Coliving?, Who are the main operators?, How do they make money?, Is it new? and does it have a future?. Additionally, the podcast mentions key players in the field including Roam and Starcity, among several others, giving listeners coveted industry knowledge!

5. The How Things Grow Podcast

Title (Episode): How Things Grow (Ep 9: The rise of co-living - and how it’s transforming urban housing and community - with Brad Hargreaves (Common, ex-General Assembly)

Host: Shamanth Rao (with featured guests)

Where you’ll find it: Howthingsgrow.com, Podtail, Stitcher, Apple Podcasts, Player FM, Listen Notes

Why we like it: In this episode, host Shamanth Rao goes behind the scenes of top Coliving company, Common. Guest Brad Hargreaves, CEO and Founder of Common, discusses the Coliving business with Rao, particularly reflecting on the overlap between digital realms and real-world spaces which drive the Coliving phenomenon. While doing so, listeners are given a unique industry perspective into urban life and community.

The podcasts listed above are worth a listen as they all present unique approaches to Coliving: A phenomenon that is ever-growing on a global scale.

The range of hosts, experts, and topics of discussion ensure that you will find the perfect episode, and next year we are sure there will be plenty more to choose from!

Happy listening and happy #InternationalPodcastDay!

Want to read more about Coliving? Check out our blog posts here, or read more about access control solutions for Coliving here.

SALTO KS provides a flexible access control management system that requires no software installation or the added expense of a fully-wired electronic product. Modern cloud-based, wireless access control system is easy and simple to use for businesses including Coworking Spaces, Coliving Buildings, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, Retail, Multi-Tenant Housing, Gyms and many more. Our best in class wireless access control solution and smart locks guarantee the efficiency for your business. Integrate smart locks, start easily managing wireless access control now!

Last month we hosted the second edition of our #colivingmeetup in the Salto KS office, located in the heart of Amsterdam!

The meetup is an informal gathering of Coliving operators and enthusiasts. This time we were lucky enough to organize the event together with Co-liv!

The objective of the #colivingmeetup is to foster discussion and networking with regards to co-creating the growth of Coliving in the Netherlands. However, the evening proved to be global in its scope, due to the international group of guests. All attendees contributed towards this topic by offering their insights and expertise ranging from technology to law and policies.

The night started with a talk by SALTO’s very own Christian Schmitz and continued with Stichting Coliving NL’s Mischa Rus, Cutwork’s Chief Marketing Officer, Bryce Willem, and finally, Coliving guru and speaker Gui Perdrix.

The talks were followed by a fruitful discussion regarding the present state of Coliving in the Netherlands, and the role of technology in improving Coliving customer experience, and the opportunity for Coliving businesses in rural as opposed to urban areas.

The evening provided a platform by which Coliving enthusiasts could socialize, exchange knowledge, build alliances, and seek solutions to common issues in an informal setting (meaning with pizza and beer!).

Among the organizations present at the meetup were Eagle Eye, Obeyo, Class of 2020, Homefully, and Habithousing.

Gui Perdrix ended the night with insights about building a community, user experience, and design; which he gathered from interviews and research from over 50 spaces all over the globe.

Although this meetup, in particular, focused on Coliving in the Netherlands, it brought together an international gathering of Coliving connoisseurs, who we hope to see again soon!

Stay tuned for updates about when and where you can join such an event through our social media channels: LinkedIn and Instagram.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back and meeting new professionals and enthusiasts of Coliving at the next Salto KS #colivingmeetup.

SALTO KS provides a flexible access control management system that requires no software installation or the added expense of a fully-wired electronic product. Modern cloud-based, wireless access control system is easy and simple to use for businesses including Coworking Spaces, Coliving Buildings, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, Retail, Multi-Tenant Housing, Gyms and many more. Our best in class wireless access control solution and smart locks guarantee the efficiency for your business. Integrate smart locks, start easily managing wireless access control now!

Conscious Coliving envisions a future living paradigm where people are consciously connected to self, others and nature. They consult with shared living ventures to transform their communities so that they foster environmental sustainability, personal well-being and authentic connection.

Conscious Coliving is supporting Coliving ventures throughout various development stages to ensure the thriving of these communities.

We are proud to present below guest blog written by Shared Living consultant at Conscious Coliving, Penny Clark:

Coliving: Rented accommodation with an emphasis on shared space and community, presents an exciting new housing typology that taps into the mindset of urban millennials, offering flexibility, convenience and community.

Growth in this industry has been impressive: the five top-funded Coliving spaces have secured $3.7 billion collectively (see for example investments into Medici, Mofang Gongyu and ZiRoom), and industry experts argue that market conditions signal a strong potential for this trend to continue. There is every sign that Coliving is more than just a fad and is, in fact, part of a fundamental shift in the private rental sector.

Growth in this industry has been impressive: the five top-funded Coliving spaces have secured $3.7 billion collectively (see for example investments into Medici, Mofang Gongyu and ZiRoom), and industry experts argue that market conditions signal a strong potential for this trend to continue. There is every sign that Coliving is more than just a fad and is, in fact, part of a fundamental shift in the private rental sector.

The rise of Coliving, with its potential net rent premiums of 30% above conventional apartments, should not only be seen as good news for property developers and operators but as a positive innovation for residents as well. Coliving re-conceptualises living in accordance with the values of a new generation: collaboration over competition, shared resources instead of private ownership and reclaiming time for meaningful experiences over non-stop busy work life.

Coliving has huge potential for transforming our current living paradigm and Coliving spaces are already measuring the positive impacts they have on their residents and their local communities (for examples see Venn’s and The Student Hotel’s impact reports).

However, we must also acknowledge that there is a danger for poor practice to proliferate in this industry; something which has caused resistance to the idea of Coliving (see, for example, the negative reactions to proposed plans for Coliving in Dublin). Without actively encouraging a sense of wellbeing and community, Coliving can simply become residents renting ever-smaller spaces without the benefits and joys that shared living can bring.

However, we must also acknowledge that there is a danger for poor practice to proliferate in this industry; something which has caused resistance to the idea of Coliving (see, for example, the negative reactions to proposed plans for Coliving in Dublin). Without actively encouraging a sense of wellbeing and community, Coliving can simply become residents renting ever-smaller spaces without the benefits and joys that shared living can bring.

Having spoken to and worked with many Coliving operators and developers, we soon saw the need for an industry Manifesto. Our Conscious Coliving Manifesto presents what we believe to be the true potential of Coliving and can be used as a framework through which operators and developers can conceptualise a sustainable and human-centred approach to Coliving.

At the heart of the Manifesto is the idea of connection. We believe that Coliving should enable greater connection with the self, through wellbeing practice; greater connection with others, through authentic community; and a greater connection with the wider world, through connecting with nature and through sustainable practices.

The Manifesto also acknowledges that in order for these types of connectivity to flourish, they need infrastructural support. For this, we have included four supporting pillars, labelled design of physical space, sustainable financial model, wise management and operations, and policy and regulation.

With this Manifesto, we aim to clearly and tangibly place the core aspects of wellbeing, community and environmental sustainability at the heart of what it means to have a Coliving space.

With this Manifesto, we aim to clearly and tangibly place the core aspects of wellbeing, community and environmental sustainability at the heart of what it means to have a Coliving space.

The Manifesto is our North Star: a reminder of what matters and what inspires us. However, we also see it as a practical tool. You can use the Manifesto along with the following questions in order to assess your own Coliving space, whether you are in the process of development or are already operating. This tool helps Coliving developers and operators create and design more impact-driven and human-centred Coliving spaces that allow for the flourishing of their residents and local communities.

You may want to focus on the three core aspects, and ask:

You may want to focus on the three core aspects, and ask:

Or you may want to use the four supporting pillars to ask similar questions:

Or you may want to use the four supporting pillars to ask similar questions:

Embodying these values will help ensure that Coliving is financially sustainable in the long term, welcomed rather than prohibited by policymakers, and will have a positive and long-lasting impact.

Conscious Coliving is a consultancy supporting Coliving developers and operators in creating thriving Coliving spaces. We can help you to find answers to the questions above and can aid in integrating wellbeing, authentic community and environmental sustainability into your business. We offer support at every step of the journey, from assessing the feasibility of a project, visioning Coliving spaces, planning operations all the way through to launching. For current operators, we conduct impact assessments and offer tailored strategies to optimise the community at all levels. We furthermore collaborate with partners to conduct research and gain insights into the Coliving movement. You can find out more about us at consciousColiving.com.

Conscious Coliving partners with Salto to help Coliving spaces run their operations smoothly so that they can focus on enhancing the wellbeing, sustainability and impact of their communities.

Explore the world of shared living by watching this free webinar!

SALTO KS provides a flexible access control management system that requires no software installation or the added expense of a fully-wired electronic product. Modern cloud-based, wireless access control system is easy and simple to use for businesses including Coworking Spaces, Coliving Buildings, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, Retail, Multi-Tenant Housing, Gyms and many more. Our best in class wireless access control solution and smart locks guarantee the efficiency for your business. Integrate smart locks, start easily managing wireless access control now!

The year 2018 was a great one for SALTO KS. Many changes were made on the front and back-end of the applications, improving, for instance, user experience and the speed of the platform. With these steps forward, ensuring solid grounds for the future, we are expanding the KS family with external KS services such as Comelit and many more to come! The SALTO KS Cloud Business Development team is continuously in search of brands we can successfully integrate with.

The Comelit Group SpA is a company operating on a worldwide scale and specializing in the design and manufacture of video entry, video surveillance, anti-intrusion, home automation and fire protection systems. For an overview of Comelit offices worldwide click here.

Kicking off A joint project in the UK kicked off the partnership between Comelit and SALTO KS. The project was formalized at the end of 2019, and three bricks from SALTO KS travelled to Bologna (Italy), to discuss the integration. The crew consisted of our two mobile developers (for both iOS and Android) and our UX designer. This trio was put together to fully grasp the possibilities that the Comelit mobile SDK (Software Development Kit) offered.

The concept In short, the concept is as follows: The owner of a multi-tenant/residential building purchases a Comelit intercom and SALTO lock for the main entrance. The KS service allows a single app approach therefor reducing investment costs for indoor panels and/or expensive rewiring. By activating this service on mobile devices, tenants of the building are able to:

The concept In short, the concept is as follows: The owner of a multi-tenant/residential building purchases a Comelit intercom and SALTO lock for the main entrance. The KS service allows a single app approach therefor reducing investment costs for indoor panels and/or expensive rewiring. By activating this service on mobile devices, tenants of the building are able to:

All of the above can be managed from the SALTO KS mobile app.

Design & development To create a common understanding of the tool and how it eventually will work on mobile devices a ‘Customer Journey’ was created. This not only describes the integration itself but the complete flow of the product, including the communication with the building manager.

After approval of the design, the development team could begin as well. Geared up with a Comelit demo-case containing all the hardware, the first technological proof of concept was created. It didn’t take long before it was possible to activate an intercom and receive a call from the SALTO KS mobile app.

Releasing a great KS Service The following months the design and development of the integration continued, until the new mobile app version could be released. Loyal to the initial Customer Journey, SALTO KS now offers an easy integration with Comelit intercoms. This enables the owner/manager of a building to offer a new service to tenants: Be notified about someone ringing your doorbell, having a live video/audio feed, and unlocking remotely.

How does it work The building tenant creates an account to log in to the mobile app, and selects Comelit from the KS Services.

After a successful activation of the device, a walkthrough is presented which explains in four illustrated steps the benefits and functionality of the KS Service. After this walkthrough the connected intercom is presented, meaning that all is set and done to make full use of the functionality.

Now, a guest arrives at the main entrance of the building, and he enters the number of a specific apartment. The Comelit intercom will send a push message to the SALTO KS mobile app, directly notifying those who have activated their device. The notification is presented as a regular phone call, which can be either answered or ignored. Answering the call will open the two-way audio feed of the intercom, just like a regular call. From the same call screen, the visitor can be let in directly. The app will remotely grant access for a few seconds! Alternatively, if the guest is not known, a video feed can be started (depending on the type of intercom). This screen offers similar functionality to the previous: Either let them in, mute or end the call.

With this integration the path to many more successful, time and costs reducing collaborations has been paved.

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SALTO KS provides a flexible access control management system that requires no software installation or the added expense of a fully-wired electronic product. Modern cloud-based, wireless access control system is easy and simple to use for businesses including Coworking Spaces, Coliving Buildings, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, Retail, Multi-Tenant Housing, Gyms and many more. Our best in class wireless access control solution and smart locks guarantee the efficiency for your business. Integrate smart locks, start easily managing wireless access control now!

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Coliving chains and spaces have increasingly been in the news. While the impact of the circumstances on the industry is apparent, the primary reason is, in fact, the flexibility, creative solutions, and value they provide during this time.

The following points highlight ways in which Coliving spaces are responding to the crisis and the various avenues in which they keep their locations open and running.

Providing digital nomads with a home

Amidst the lockdowns and travel bans that have been issued, Coliving spaces have had to cope with the inevitable loss of bookings. In the same vein, Coliving tenants now require a space to live more than ever. A large number of the Coliving community are freelancers, contract-workers, conference-goers, and modern-day expatriates. These individuals are digital nomads who rely on Coliving spaces as the perfect solution to their stay in a foreign country.

“If we were to close locations, these people would lose the place they know to be home.” - Coliving space and community Outside

Outside, with 28 spaces globally, describes their members saying they, “are not necessarily ‘travellers’, but they’re also not residents.” While those with a more permanent home-base are able to quarantine, these digital nomads require their own space. “To stay at home is to stay where they are”, says Outside, and “if we were to close locations, these people would lose the place they know to be home.” In this way by keeping their doors open despite the costs, Coliving spaces are providing solace to many.

Community support

While the Coliving spaces themselves are looking out for their tenants, the tenants themselves have formed a community through which they can look out for one another. This has been manifested ranging from Whatsapp Groups to Neighborhood gatherings from balconies or front doors. Housemates are purchasing masks, thermometers and groceries to distribute between themselves.

On the Outside Slack channel, tenants are exchanging information on travel bans and updates of country regulations, as well as conditions of airports globally.

In addition to social networking channels, Coliving communities are using Facebook’s Community Help, and are exchanging delivery apps, COVID-19 information platforms, and health and well-being apps.

Optimizing operations for employees and tenants

Coliving spaces are implementing as many tactics as possible to reduce the stressors of employees and tenants. Resources such as vetting all personnel, managing entries, and facilitating delivery services are a few ways in which operations are being adapted and optimized to meet the pressure of the pandemic.

Coliving spaces are still keeping their kitchens and restaurant services open, allowing room service delivery and maintaining optimal hygiene.

Some go as far as making sure essential commodities such as toilet paper are available for every resident and Coliving global chain Zoku, is providing hand sanitizer gel dispensers in public areas such as their Social Spaces.

Flexible stays

An additional benefit which some Coliving spaces are providing their community is to bend their offers to a week-long or single-night stays.

This allows individuals in precarious situations the option to find temporary housing in a time of need.

Additionally, for recent travellers who may have contracted the virus, Coliving spaces are offering flexible refunds.

Valuable discounts and offers

Discounts can go a long way in a time of economic uncertainty and Coliving space Sonder exemplifies this by offering a 40% discount to anyone who stays longer than 14 days at their private spaces.

The Collective Canary Wharf is an example of a Coliving space which while staying open, has temporarily closed short stay bookings of 1-7 nights until 14th April. In order to balance this, should bookings be affected, they offer flexible date changes or full refunds.

In these circumstances, Coliving spaces are thriving in their ability to creatively dealing with the repercussions of COVID-19, as the examples above illustrate.

“These uncertain times are turning many things upside down. For many, it is now time to rethink concepts. Let’s face it, physical distancing is a new unprecedented challenge; but what we see now is people realising social connection more valuable than ever before.” - Christian Schmitz, Global Account Manager PBSA & Coliving at SALTO Systems

These spaces and their communities are making the best out of the situation and deserve support from the rest of us. If anything, their values and vision have been strengthened for the better.

Stay informed about the latest COVID-19 updates from Salto by clicking here.

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SALTO KS provides a flexible access control management system that requires no software installation or the added expense of a fully-wired electronic product. Modern cloud-based, wireless access control system is easy and simple to use for businesses including Coworking Spaces, Coliving Buildings, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, Retail, Multi-Tenant Housing, Gyms and many more. Our best in class wireless access control solution and smart locks guarantee the efficiency for your business. Integrate smart locks, start easily managing wireless access control now!