Australia’s First Co-living Space Features Some Ingenious Space-Saving Solutions

When was the last time you hung out with your neighbor, or even said good morning to them? We once lived in a world where knowing who lived around you was normal, but the Western world has become more secluded than ever before. Which seems a little strange since the digital age has made us more connected.

But co-living has gained interest among young urbanites and something that began in the United States and Europe is now available in Australia.

An Australian company called UKO fashioned the first co-living space UKO Stanmore in Sydney, followed by UKO Paddington and more are in the pipeline. So, how does such a space work? Tenants pay a set amount every month to live in a stylish studio, but they get to access common spaces and enjoy a sense of community.

While you don’t own the studio you live in; you get to feel like it’s yours. The studios come fully furnished and prices start at AUD 525 ($354) per week. That price takes care of bills, utilities, associated costs, and even WiFi. A laundry service, weekend yoga, and free bikes are also part of the package.

The studios were designed by Mostaghim and Associates architect Ashkan Mostaghimm, who managed to create a space that could change with your mood. Each studio has an ensuite bathroom, a kitchenette, and multi-use furniture that you can slide out of sight. Given the customisation options, tenants can decide if they want a mini lounge, exercise area, or somewhere to dine.

Functional, sure, but also entirely beautiful. A crisp, white finish is paired with an emerald green colour palette and beautiful wood and leather furniture. For a clutter-free approach, the steps up to the bed are a set of drawers. White hooks line the bed for hanging storage.

For a clutter-free approach, the steps up to the bed are a set of drawers. White hooks line the bed for hanging storage.Pinboards and hooks in the unit allow each co-living tenant to make the space theirs without permanent renovations or customisation.

A wardrobe pulls out of the underside of the bed, with one part consisting of shelving, and the rest a rail for hanging shirts, dresses, and other garments.

There won’t be too many homes with sofas under their beds, but that’s how clever this co-living apartment is. A beautiful brown leather sofa pulls along tracks under the bed for use at a moment’s notice.

While the sofa is on castor wheels, the brakes go on when weight is applied. It can then tuck away underneath the bed once you’re finished with it.

Two stools also fit in the under-bed storage, which then attaches to the dining table with leather straps to create a dining nook.

All furniture in this 19m2 studio has been designed to fit comfortably under the raised bed, including a table, sofa, stools, and wardrobe.

The clever bookshelf turns into a desk with minimal effort.

Once folded down, the bookshelf becomes a functional space for study and work.

The communal kitchen in the co-living community can be a convenient option for many tenants, but each studio also has a kitchenette with a sink, extractor fan, and hot plate.

Take a video tour of one of the studios.