cohousing

thumb|250px|right|Cohousing playground next to common house

Cohousing is an intentional, self-governing, cooperative community where residents live in private homes often clustered around shared space. The term originated in Denmark in the late 1960s. Families live in attached or single-family homes with traditional amenities, usually including a private kitchenette. As part of the communal orientation, shared spaces typically feature a common house, which may include a large kitchen and dining area, laundry, and recreational spaces. Examples of shared outdoor spaces designed to promote social interactions include walkways, open space, parking, playgrounds, and gardens. Furthermore, neighbors frequently engage in the exchange of resources, including tools, babysitting, and creative skills.