Connection: Coliving breaking the loneliness epidemic

September 1, 2024 by Sandra Abrouk

Globally, a 2023 survey revealed that nearly a quarter of people across 142 countries felt 'very lonely', highlighting the urgent need for solutions that foster social connection. In Australia, the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey reports that one in four Australians experience loneliness, with significant impacts on mental health and overall wellbeing.

Loneliness

Loneliness isn’t just an emotional burden, it’s a public health crisis that affects millions of people worldwide. According to recent data, approximately 50% of U.S. adults reported feeling lonely even before the COVID-19 pandemic, a statistic that has likely worsened since. This disconnection doesn’t just impact mental health; it has serious physical consequences as well. Research shows that chronic loneliness can increase the risk of heart disease by 29%, stroke by 32% and dementia by 50% among older adults.

The effects are profound: people with fewer social connections are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. These statistics emphasize the importance of communities like Vuvale, where creating connections is at the heart of everything we do.

Vuvale starts with connection

Now, imagine moving into a new place, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety, not knowing anyone and uncertain about how you’ll fit in. You wonder if you’ll find a community or if this will be just another place to live. But at Vuvale, it won’t take long for those feelings to fade. Picture yourself walking through Vuvale’s doors for the first time and being welcomed into a vibrant, supportive community that feels more like a chosen family.

From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed by a warm community manager who not only gives you a tour but also you start forming connections right away. The thoughtfully designed spaces are more than just amenities; they’re catalysts for building genuine relationships. The cosy, inviting common areas beckon you to join in on a conversation, the shared kitchen hums with laughter and the aroma of home cooked meals and the garden, a lush oasis, offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. Soon, you find yourself sharing stories over breakfast, joining group activities and building friendships that bring a profound sense of belonging you may not have realized was missing. Each interaction at Vuvale is an opportunity to connect on a deeper level, fostering friendships that truly enrich your life.

The journey begins: Connecting with yourself

Before you can connect deeply with others, it’s crucial to first connect with yourself. At Vuvale, the journey to building meaningful relationships starts with finding inner balance and understanding your own needs and aspirations. Many of us arrive at new places feeling disconnected, not just from others, but also from ourselves. The demands of work, life transitions, or simply the fast pace of modern living can leave us feeling scattered and unsure. That’s why the first step in any new community experience should be about grounding yourself.

Vuvale offers an environment that encourages self reflection and personal growth. Imagine starting your day at the rooftop garden, where you can focus on mindfulness and set your intentions. Or finding a quiet corner in the shared lounge to journal, reflect and plan your day. By taking time to understand and care for yourself, you lay the foundation for authentic and meaningful interactions with those around you.

From self connection to social connection

Taking time to reconnect with oneself is the first step towards engaging genuinely with others. As comfort and confidence grow, reaching out to others feels natural and effortless. Conversations start to flow easily and participating in group activities becomes something to look forward to, not out of obligation, but from a genuine desire to connect and contribute to the community.

This shift is transformative because it enables deeper, more meaningful connections. It’s no longer just about 'showing up' socially; it’s about bringing your full, authentic self to every interaction. This process turns casual acquaintances into close friends and transforms a collection of individuals into a cohesive, supportive community.

When people come together with openness and a shared purpose, these small, everyday moments create a powerful sense of belonging that is hard to find elsewhere.

Vuvale: An innovative approach to community living

Living at Vuvale is about being part of a thoughtfully designed environment that encourages natural interactions and deeper connections. Our communal spaces are intentionally created to serve as gathering points. Whether it’s the shared kitchen, where residents come together for impromptu dinners, or the rooftop garden, where you can find a quiet spot for reflection or a lively group yoga session, every aspect of Vuvale is designed to make interaction easy and enjoyable.

Our community managers play a crucial role in this experience. They’re not just there to handle logistics, they’re the facilitators of connection. They facilitate the events’ organisation, introduce new residents and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to engage. For those who might be more introverted or new to communal living, this gentle guidance can make all the difference in transitioning from feeling like an outsider stranger to being part of the family.

Social engagement: Opportunities to connect

The heart of Vuvale’s community is its social engagement. We believe in creating opportunities for residents to connect in ways that feel natural and meaningful. Our approach includes inclusive activities that cater to different interests and personalities. As a coliving resident shares: “Through daily interactions in the coliving space, we get to geek out on topics together, whether we’re preparing breakfast, doing some gardening, or simply relaxing. These everyday interactions helped build strong friendships and a true sense of community.”

Imagine a typical week at Vuvale. On Monday, there might be a casual meet and greet in the lounge for new residents, providing a low pressure way to get to know your neighbours. Midweek, you could join a group in the kitchen for a communal cooking session, trying out new recipes and sharing stories over a delicious meal. The weekend might bring a surf class at the beach or a gateway exploring the surroundings. These everyday moments are what turn a building into a community, creating a sense of belonging and connection.

Shared values and identity: Creating a sense of belonging

A true sense of community is built on shared values. At Vuvale, we’re creating a culture where residents feel connected through common goals, such as connective living, purpose and overcoming hurdles. These shared values are reflected in everything we do, from the design of our spaces to the events we host.

Our commitment to purpose is about bringing likeminded individuals together to drive positive change and make a meaningful impact. Residents will have opportunities to engage in workshops and initiatives that reflect their passions and values. By participating in these collective efforts, residents can contribute to a shared sense of achievement and purpose. It’s about creating a space where every action is aligned with a greater mission, inspiring a community that thrives on collective consciousness and forward thinking goals. Finding their shared connections.

Creating this shared identity is essential for building a cohesive community. When people feel connected to common values or causes, they’re more likely to support each other and contribute to the community’s overall wellbeing. This sense of belonging acts as a buffer against stress and fosters a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

connection, gathering, support, thriving, communicate, friends, shared spaces

Emotional support: A network of care

Forming connections isn’t only about socializing; it’s about creating a support system that residents can rely on. At Vuvale, our community managers are trained to provide both logistical and emotional support. Whether you’re going through a tough time, adjusting to a new city, or simply feeling overwhelmed, there’s always someone to talk to. 

Research supports the value of such networks. A study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behaviour found that social support can significantly reduce the risk of mental health issues like depression and anxiety, particularly among vulnerable populations such as immigrants and the elderly. Moreover, strong social ties have been shown to lower levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, thereby improving overall health and wellbeing.

The broader trend: Community living on the rise

The concept of coliving is part of a broader trend towards community focused living solutions. Younger generations, in particular, are seeking out living arrangements that provide a sense of community. A survey conducted by Deloitte found that over 60% of Millennials and Gen Z prefer experiences over material possessions and they are drawn to communities that align with their values and lifestyle preferences.  These generations are drawn to environments that promote social interaction, personal growth and shared experiences. Community living offers a flexible, supportive lifestyle that caters to these needs, providing not only a home but also a space to connect, collaborate and thrive alongside likeminded individuals.

The concept extends beyond younger generations seeking connection, community and personal growth. It’s also a powerful solution for diverse groups such as families, the elderly and even those transitioning from homelessness. For instance, in the case of single parents, community living offers a supportive network where shared childcare and mutual assistance can alleviate the burdens of solo parenting. Elderly residents benefit from social interaction and reduced isolation, promoting mental and physical health. Similarly, for individuals recovering from homelessness, structured community environments provide stability, resources and a sense of belonging that traditional housing cannot offer. This inclusive model of living redefines what it means to be part of a community, offering flexible, supportive spaces where every individual can thrive.

Designing for connection: Thoughtful spaces that inspire

At Vuvale, our design philosophy goes beyond aesthetics; it's centered on fostering genuine connections and a sense of community. We believe that the spaces people inhabit play a vital role in shaping their interactions and relationships. That's why we design environments that naturally bring people together and create a shared experience.

Communal kitchens, for instance, aren't just functional spaces for cooking, they're vibrant social hubs where residents can come together, share meals, swap recipes and engage in conversations that might not occur in more traditional settings. Shared outdoor spaces are designed to be peaceful retreats where residents can unwind, practice yoga, enjoy the natural surroundings or have social time with others around the barbecue. These interactions cultivate a sense of belonging that transforms everyday moments into opportunities for connection.

Every detail of our spaces is crafted to offer the best user experience. The furniture is movable and adaptable, allowing residents to reconfigure personal areas to suit their needs. Open layouts and shared pathways are strategically designed to promote visibility and encourage casual encounters, helping residents feel connected to one another without sacrificing their personal space.

We understand that building a community is about more than just providing shared spaces, it’s about creating an environment that invites meaningful interaction and supports diverse forms of engagement. Whether it's a shared meal, a conversation in the garden, or a casual chat in the hallways, Vuvale’s thoughtfully designed spaces inspire connection, making residents feel at home both with themselves and their community.

Building community for a better tomorrow

At Vuvale, we understand that true connection is at the heart of thriving communities. Our approach to coliving is about more than just providing a place to live, it’s about creating an environment where meaningful interactions and personal growth can flourish. Through thoughtfully designed spaces, shared experiences and a supportive community, we aim to address the loneliness epidemic and foster a sense of belonging. By encouraging connections with ourselves, each other and the spaces we inhabit, Vuvale is redefining what it means to feel at home. Together, we’re not just building homes; we’re building the future of community living.


Vuvale is transforming the way people experience living by offering high quality, flexible and accessible housing options centered around community and wellbeing. Drawing inspiration from the Fijian word for family and the sense of being welcomed into someone's home as if it were your own. Vuvale creates inclusive environments where residents feel truly welcomed, supported and connected. Its purpose built coliving spaces come with shared amenities like coworking spaces, rooftop barbecues, a cinema and wellness programs, catering to diverse lifestyles.

Sandra Abrouk
Experience Strategist dedicated to the future of living and work, driving change through design thinking. Passionate about community, wellbeing and human psychology, with a focus on shaping spaces where creativity and connection flow naturally—empowering people to live fulfilling, meaningful and transformative experiences. 

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