Welcome to Oak Park Commons Cohousing
Strength in Community
Illinois’ first cohousing community fosters intergenerational connection, diversity and inclusiveness. We welcome all those who share our vision
About Us
Established in January 2018, our group now has eight households who finalized site selection, land purchase and architectural design with the assistance of member builder Jonathan Shack and architect Foster Dale.
As future neighbors we not only learned to pool our resources, but how to negotiate the details of living together (e.g., privacy, noise, pets,…), govern ourselves (consensus building and resident work assignments) and attract new members.
Our building will have 24 one, two, and three bedroom condos with ample fifth floor common areas supporting common resident meals, social events, group meetings, fireside chats, streaming, gardening, exercise, yoga and more.
Vision
Promising to share when purchasing a unit fuels the solidarity that binds us together. Security assured not only by cameras and locks, but the attention and care of resident neighbors. Efficiency gained not only with a high quality building, but meal sharing, bartering and care giving. Sustainability offered not just by energy saving technology, but ride sharing, cycling, and walking.
What is Cohousing?
Cohousing is a residential community of private homes or condos that share a common space intentionally designed to foster social interaction among neighbors and create a safe and friendly environment for kids and seniors alike. Voluntary interaction and interdependency among households at different stages of the life cycle reduces the prospect for social isolation and dependency.
Why Choose Cohousing?
If you like a daily dose of other people beyond your household, cohousing offers just what you need. You meet many of your neighbors before moving in, finding a place in the social community as you settle into your own private dwelling. Participating periodically in social activities and building management work contributes to the welfare of your neighbors as it inspires personal conversation and friendships.
Upcoming Events
Social Gathering
Friday, April 26, 5:30 – 8:00 p.m. Central Time
Trattoria 225, 225 Harrison Street, Oak Park
All are welcome! No RSVP necessary.
Oak Park Commons Cohousing hosts monthly public meetings, via Zoom, on the second Thursday of the month.
Our next Public Meeting is May 9, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Central Time.
Click here to get the Zoom link if you’re not already on our mailing list.
Strength in community
COHOUSING OFFERS
Successful communities share core values & vision such as inclusiveness, diversity and sense of community.
Stability
Cohousing is designed to increase interaction between neighbors, sharing resources and working together to sustain a diverse and inclusive residential community.
Solidarity
People value the sense of belonging to something bigger than themselves and living amongst people who share your core values and convictions.
Security
Knowing your neighbors and sharing tasks, food, friendships and more reduces uncertainty in the face of unexpected problems or threats.
Sustainability
Sharing strategies complement eco-friendly & energy-efficient building features as residents eat meals together, ride share and shop share.
