The Architecture of Housing Co-ops : 15 Case Studes – Marieke Kums + Carolin Koopmann
The Architecture of Housing Co-ops explores the growing role of housing cooperatives as an innovative response to contemporary housing challenges. As interest in collective ownership and resident-led development continues to increase across Europe, this timely publication examines how cooperative housing can offer more affordable, sustainable and community-focused alternatives to conventional models of housing provision.
Drawing on 15 exemplary projects—10 in Germany and 5 in the Netherlands—the book presents a diverse range of realised housing cooperatives, including San Riemo in Munich, De Nieuwe Meent in Amsterdam and Boschgaard in Den Bosch. Through detailed case studies, it investigates how these projects were conceived, financed and delivered, while also exploring how they function as places to live today.
Combining interviews, project analysis and critical reflection, the book examines the organisational structures, architectural strategies, legal frameworks and financial models that underpin successful cooperative housing. The result is a valuable resource for architects, housing professionals, urban designers, researchers and anyone interested in alternative approaches to housing and community-led development.
Features:
- In-depth analysis of 15 realised housing cooperatives in Germany and the Netherlands
- Case studies exploring development processes, governance structures and residential life
- Detailed project documentation including floor plans, drawings and photography
- Interviews and essays offering practical and theoretical perspectives on cooperative housing
- Relevant to current debates on affordability, collective living and the future of housing
Richly illustrated and thoroughly researched, The Architecture of Housing Co-ops provides both inspiration and practical insight into some of Europe's most progressive housing models.
Author: Marieke Kums + Carolin Koopmann
Publisher: Nai010 Publishers
Format: Paperback
Pages: 304
ISBN: 978-94-6208-873-3
Publication date: February 2026