The Coliving Conference 2023, held on September 21st and 22nd, marked a defining moment for the shared living industry. For the first time, leaders, innovators, and visionaries came together in one space to discuss the future of coliving. The event served as a hub for fresh perspectives, insightful discussions, and meaningful connections that will shape the industry moving forward.
With the rapid evolution of coliving solutions, the conference provided an essential platform to address key challenges, from investment and sustainability to community engagement and technology integration. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with industry pioneers, gain practical knowledge and explore groundbreaking trends that are defining the next chapters of shared living and real estate as a whole.
Join us as we look back on the highlights of #CC23, celebrating the key moments and takeaways that made this event so impactful.
The Highlights of Coliving Conference 2023
The Coliving Conference 2023 spanned across two days, each offering distinct yet equally valuable experiences. Day 1 focused on firsthand exploration and networking, immersing attendees in the innovative coliving spaces of Amsterdam. It was an opportunity to connect with the spaces and people at the heart of the industry. Meanwhile, Day 2 delved deeper into current trends and insights, featuring thought-provoking discussions and presentations. These two days offered a practical exploration of coliving, combining real-world examples with valuable expertise to give attendees a comprehensive understanding of the field’s current direction.
Day 1: Site Tours & Networking Experience
The inaugural day of the Coliving Conference unfolded with a dynamic blend of exploration and connection. Attendees immersed themselves in site tours, experiencing firsthand the innovative coliving spaces that define Amsterdam’s landscape. Notable stops included:
- Zoku Amsterdam: A pioneering space that blends home and office life into a seamless experience.
- The Cohesion Lofts: A project by Rockfield Real Esate, setting new standards in modern coliving design.
- OurDomain Amsterdam Southeast: Developed by Greystar, this innovative living environment promotes community and convenience for students and young professionals.
The tours provided real-world examples of successful coliving models, having sparked discussions about design, operations and resident experience. Special thanks to our three site tour partners for their hospitality and commitment to sharing their innovative solutions.
As the sun set, attendees gathered at the NDSM area, overlooking the Ij Canal, for a relaxed and engaging Networking Experience sponsored by Spatial Experience and Wifirst. With drinks in hand and accompanying bites (Dutch Borrel style), the evening was filled with conversations that fostered collaborations and new industry connections, setting the tone for Day 2 of the conference.
Day 2: Panels, Knowledge Sharing & Coliving Awards
Day 2 of the Coliving Conference 2023 focused on key themes shaping the future of coliving, featuring over 18 thematic blocks that sparked dynamic panel discussions and insightful conversations. The atmosphere was charged with energy, driven by passionate professionals who believe in the transformative potential of coliving. With a diverse range of activities throughout the day, the conference provided thought-provoking ideas across three dedicated stages: Thought Leadership, Market Insights, and Showcase.
The Thought Leadership stage explored the future of coliving, emphasising trends in community-building, sustainability, operational strategies, and design innovation. Discussions revolved around how coliving can evolve as a long-term lifestyle option and the role of human-centered design in enhancing shared living experiences.
The Market Insights stage sessions provided regional perspectives on coliving, addressing the investment landscape, market demand and regulatory developments across key regions. Experts examined how coliving is adapting to different economic climates and urban planning policies worldwide.
Lastly, the Showcase stage sessions highlighted emerging coliving models and innovative approaches, including flexible living solutions, alternative financing models and specialised coliving concepts such as senior and nomadic coliving. Discussions centered on how these models are responding to shifting resident needs and new business opportunities in the shared living sector.
For in-depth summaries of each panel discussion, visit Coliving Insights, where full session recaps are available.
In addition to the substantive sessions, the conference strategically facilitated networking opportunities in the lounge, fostering an interactive and engaging atmosphere through designated spaces and activities. These interactions provided a platform to connect with like-minded professionals from diverse backgrounds in real estate, enabling the forging of new relationships and the initiation of exciting collaborations.
The event reached its grand finale with the Coliving Awards 2023, celebrating exceptional industry achievements and contributions. Powered by our partner Coliving Awards, the ceremony highlighted the remarkable work of top industry players, with winners recognised for their innovative impact and the esteemed jury playing a pivotal role in selecting the best in the industry.
Coliving Conference 2023: Through the Eyes of our Attendees
The success of the first edition of the Coliving Conference was reflected not only in the engaging discussions and insights but also in the overwhelmingly positive feedback we got from the attendees in the form of testimonials. Their anticipation for future editions fueled our determination to make the 2024 conference even better and reassured that the first edition sparked lasting enthusiasm. Here’s a glimpse of what the attendees had to say about their experience at #CC23:
“In 2023, as the Lead Judge at Coliving Awards 2023 for the Building & Architecture Category, I had the pleasure of announcing the world’s best-designed coliving project and discussing future trends in shared living as part of a panel with leading practitioners and stakeholders in this sector. The Coliving Conference tracks the evolution of urban living with a global perspective. It is a terrific event and brilliantly organised.” - Andrei Martin, Partner at PLP Architecture.
“My inaugural coliving conference exceeded all expectations. The warm exception I received from fellow attendees made me feel part of the community. Meeting individuals I’d only read about or engaged with online was wonderful and added a personal touch. The content and speakers were top-notch, offering a comprehensive view of the coliving landscape. I was able to forge a number of potentially longterm, beneficial business contacts. Looking forward to future conferences.” - Elizabeth White, Founder at NUUage Coliving.
“Attending and speaking at the Coliving Conference 2023 exceeded my expectations. It provided a valuable platform for global peers to exchange ideas on shared living. The well-organised day featured thought-provoking panel sessions with top minds in the industry. The warm reception and vibrant community atmosphere made connecting with other attendees seamless. Meeting individuals in person whom I had previously known only through their writings or digital interactions added a personal dimension to the event. I am proud to have been part of an event that is pushing the boundaries and making communal living more accessible. The conference left me with valuable contacts and potential business opportunities. Thank you for the unforgettable experience and I look forward to participating at the next event.” - Adrie Vreeke, CEO & Co-Owner at capsule hotel.
The positive testimonials speak volumes, and we are also genuinely grateful for the support of our sponsors and partners. Their collaboration has helped us create something truly meaningful, and we look forward to welcoming new organisations in the years to come to continue building on the growth and success of the industry.
Building on this strong foundation, the Coliving Conference sets the stage for ongoing collaboration and progress in the coliving sector. With its first edition having launched in 2023, it is incredible to see it shaping conversations and laying the groundwork for what’s ahead. As we continue to grow, each next edition will aim to advance the mission of accelerating shared living’s future, and we look forward to having you be part of it. Learn more about Coliving Conference and its future editions here.
Don’t Miss Out on Deeper Insights
Do you want to go beyond summaries and highlights? Each panel session was packed with expert insights, industry trends and actionable strategies. Explore the full recaps of each and every panel session on Coliving Insights, our official media partner, and gain deeper knowledge on the conversations that are still shaping the future of shared living.
