Co-Living as an Urban Affordability Engine: Rethinking How We Live in Brisbane
Blog post description.
4/2/20252 min read
The Brisbane rental crisis is not a future problem—it’s a right-now problem. Vacancy rates are sitting at a brutal 0.8%, and for many renters, affordability is no longer about preference but survival. We need solutions that go beyond minor zoning tweaks or token incentives. Co-living isn’t just an alternative—it’s an essential piece of the puzzle.
What is Modern Co-Living?
Forget the outdated image of co-living as a glorified share house. The new wave of co-living developments offers self-contained micro-apartments (25-35m²) paired with high-quality shared amenities: co-working lounges, gyms, rooftop gardens, and curated community programs. Renters get their own space but also a built-in social and professional network—all for 20-50% less than a traditional apartment.
And investors? They’re paying attention. Co-living properties in Australia are delivering 7.5% annual returns, compared to 4.2% for standard apartments. The numbers are hard to ignore.
A Global Benchmark: Medellín’s Co-Living Tower
Looking beyond Australia, Medellín, Colombia, has been pioneering co-living at scale. A high-rise in Antioquia combines compact private units with high-end communal facilities. Designed with vertical storage, convertible furniture, and acoustic balancing strategies, it creates a living environment that is both space-efficient and comfortable. The success of Medellín’s model proves that high-density living doesn’t have to mean compromise—it can mean opportunity.
What This Means for Brisbane Developers & Architects
So where does this leave us? Queensland’s Build-to-Rent incentives mean developers have an opening to move fast on co-living projects. But the real challenge isn’t policy—it’s design.
To make co-living work at scale, we need:
Architectural mastery of small-space living (think adaptable furniture, integrated storage, and strategic zoning)
Acoustic solutions that maintain privacy without killing the communal vibe
A regulatory framework that aligns with the speed of housing demand
The Future of Brisbane Housing
Brisbane needs more than just more housing—we need the right kind of housing. Co-living isn’t a silver bullet, but it is a proven model that delivers affordability, community, and strong investment returns. With smart design and strategic planning, this could be a major step toward fixing our rental crisis.
Let’s start thinking bigger.
References:
#CoLiving #WigwamArchitects
