Cohousing catching on in the Bay State

This weekend, Bentley College in Waltham will host the 2008 National Cohousing Conference, an event that will focus on the growing number of cohousing communities — close-knit “mini-neighborhoods” that share common space, are environmentally-friendly and whose residents help each other out. 

One of eight communities in the Bay State Jamaica Plain Cohousing was built in 2004 in a joint effort between DHK, an architectural firm that specializes in such structures, and the community’s future residents.

JP Cohousing consists of two buildings that house 30 multigenerational households in individual units, as well as a common house with dining rooms, a kitchen, offices and other communal areas, which resident Jeanne Goodman calls “an extension of our homes.”

The common space helps to lower the community’s carbon footprint, as well as to engender closeness and cooperation amongst the residents.

“It’s such a pleasure to ask for help and know you will receive it,” said resident Jane Hans.

JP Cohousing strives to meld urban living with green space, including open areas for children and an organic garden, according to Hans.

Along with sustainable practices, the community also stresses physical accessibility through design in the buildings and affordability of housing units.