Service Over Ownership: A Co-living Community For The Rising Generation In Honolulu, Hawaii

Abstract

The availability and cost of housing is a critical social issue in cities across the globe. This is no more evident than in Honolulu, Hawai’i, which faces housing shortages and rapidly increasing costs that disproportionately impact young professionals.As a result, traditional housing typologies are being challenged to address these issues. Population growth, rising ecological awareness, and the increase of higher technological demands from the younger generation are primary drivers. One of the problems of Hawai’i’s current housing model is that it slowly forces young people to live a lower quality of accommodations and compromise on their living locations, amenities, and living expenses. The existing method of housing solutions in Honolulu means that young people often compromise on their independence due to the high cost of living. As a result, they often leave the family home far later than they are supposed to. This compromise does not promote the development of high-quality, affordable living opportunities for these young adults. The purpose of the research project is to explore the potential of new housing models, Co-Living models in urban Hawai’i. The dissertation aims to integrate the idea of Co-Living into the current housing model and introduce a new alternative housing option directed at young professionals. This study researches the current housing situation in Hawai’i and investigates Co-Living communities and housing models. Co-living is not a replacement for affordable housing but rather an addition to the existing affordable housing model. Co-Living not only serves as a new housing alternative but also provides an opportunity for a unique and different lifestyle. The study also evaluates their potential use in the urban core of Honolulu. In support of the design of a Co-Living community that is adapted specifically to the regional, social, and economic needs of Hawai’i.