FAQ - About the concept

What is communal living, and how does it differ from traditional housing?

Communal living, also known as co-living, is a style of living where residents share spaces and responsibilities. It differs from traditional housing in several ways, including:

• Shared spaces: Co-living spaces feature shared kitchens, living areas, and other amenities.

• Community focus: Co-living spaces emphasize social interaction and community building.

• Flexible leases: Co-living arrangements often offer short-term contracts, while traditional housing often has long-term leases.

• All-inclusive pricing: Co-living often bundles rent, utilities, and amenities into a single fee.

• Resident participation: Co-living residents actively participate in the design, governance, and management of their shared living spaces.

Why focus on queer, polyamorous, and intersectional values?

Poly Heights centers queer, polyamorous, and intersectional values to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for communities often marginalized in traditional housing models. These groups face unique challenges, such as discrimination and a lack of communal support systems, making it essential to provide intentional spaces where they can thrive. By embracing intersectionality, the project ensures that overlapping forms of oppression (e.g., race, gender identity, class) are addressed, fostering equity and diversity. This approach not only aligns with the needs of the target audience but also strengthens the community by promoting empathy, adaptability, and mutual care.

Additionally, focusing on these values sets Poly Heights apart in a market dominated by conventional housing models, creating a unique identity that attracts like-minded individuals and allies. It also aligns with broader social trends toward sustainability, LGBTQ+ empowerment, and social justice, making the initiative both relevant and impactful. By prioritizing inclusivity and shared resources, Poly Heights can serve as a model for intentional, progressive living communities, inspiring others to adopt similar frameworks.

What makes Poly Heights unique compared to other communal living spaces?

Poly Heights is distinct in its commitment to creating a communal living space within an urban environment, where most similar initiatives are often located in rural or suburban areas. By situating the project in the heart of the city, Poly Heights ensures accessibility to vital amenities, vibrant cultural hubs, and professional opportunities that are often lacking in countryside communes. This approach prioritizes convenience and connection while fostering a strong sense of community in an inclusive and progressive urban setting.

Additionally, Poly Heights emphasizes the renovation of existing properties, such as hotels or B&Bs, rather than constructing entirely new buildings. This adaptive reuse strategy not only reduces environmental impact but also allows for a faster project turnaround, enabling the community to become operational more quickly and at a potentially lower cost. This practical and sustainable approach underscores the project’s innovative nature, setting it apart as a forward-thinking model for urban communal living.

How does communal living promote inclusivity and sustainability?

Communal living fosters inclusivity by creating shared spaces where diverse individuals can connect, collaborate, and build supportive relationships. By prioritizing open communication, democratic decision-making, and shared responsibilities, it ensures that all voices are heard and valued. This model encourages members to embrace diversity, celebrate different identities, and form strong, empathetic bonds, which is particularly beneficial for marginalized communities seeking a sense of belonging and security.

Sustainability is inherently promoted in communal living through resource sharing and efficient use of space. By consolidating individual living needs—such as shared kitchens, communal areas, and energy resources—communes reduce waste and overall environmental impact. Practices like renewable energy adoption, waste reduction programs, and communal gardening further enhance sustainability. Additionally, renovating existing buildings, as Poly Heights proposes, minimizes the environmental footprint compared to new construction, demonstrating a commitment to long-term ecological and social responsibility.

Membership and Involvement

Who can become a member, and what is the process for joining?

Anyone who aligns with Poly Heights' values and mission can apply for membership. The process involves an application, an interview with current members, and an orientation period to ensure compatibility with the community's culture and goals.

Do I need to identify as queer or polyamorous to live here?

No, while Poly Heights prioritises queer and polyamorous values, membership is open to allies who respect and support these principles.

Can I live here if I don’t have previous experience in communal living?

Yes! Prior experience is not required. New members are guided through orientation and workshops to acclimate to communal living practices.

It is actually recommended to stay as a guest for some time (a month to a year) before electing to live in the commune on an ongoing basis.

What are the expectations for members in terms of participation and responsibilities?

Members are expected to contribute to shared responsibilities, participate in decision-making processes, and engage in community-building activities.

The principle that we live by is that in order to benefit from a society, you are expected to participate in that society. If

Can families, including children, join the community?

Whilst we welcome families with children in the community (Because who doesn't love being a fun aunt?), we would sadly not be able to provide communal living space for such families at this time, due to the limitations on physical space that we have.

What happens if a member wants to leave the community?

If a member wishes to leave the community, they are encouraged to communicate their intentions openly. Our process typically involves an exit interview to understand their reasons and gather feedback. Members may need to fulfil any outstanding commitments, and we aim to support their transition, whether it involves finding a new living arrangement or reconnecting with external networks. This ensures a respectful and smooth departure for everyone involved.

Living Arrangements

What are the individual living spaces like?

The plan is that each member has a private one-bedroom apartment with a bedroom, bathroom, and living area, ensuring autonomy within the community.

How much privacy do members have?

Members enjoy their own personal spaces while benefiting from access to shared communal areas. Privacy is respected, and boundaries are maintained through clear guidelines.

What shared spaces and amenities are available?

Planned spaces include a communal kitchen, lounge, work-from-home areas, and a ground-floor event space.

Additional amenities, like gardens and laundry facilities, may also be available. The more funding we are able to raise, the more bang for our buck, as it were.

Are pets allowed in the community?

As much as I would personally love to have all the fur babies around, until we have the space operational we cannot guarantee this as an option.

If we do elect for this as a group, guidelines will later be established to ensure compatibility and shared responsibility for communal spaces.

How are household chores and maintenance responsibilities divided?

Responsibilities are divided equitably among members, often through a rotating schedule or voluntary committees.

Governance and Decision-Making

How are decisions made in the community?

Decisions are made democratically, with each member having an equal vote. Regular meetings ensure transparency and collective input.

What happens if there are conflicts between members?

A conflict resolution process, including mediation and dialogue, is in place to address disagreements constructively.

Is there a leadership structure, or is everything decided collectively?

While most decisions are made collectively, committees and a council may handle specific areas, like sustainability or wellness, to streamline operations.

How are new ideas or initiatives proposed and implemented?

Members can propose ideas during community meetings, where they are discussed, refined, and voted on.

Finances

What is the cost of membership or rent?

Costs will depend on how much we manage to raise in funding and our final chosen location, but will be designed to be affordable and transparent.

Are there income-based sliding scales or other financial accommodations?

Yes, we are hoping very much to implement sliding scales and subsidies to ensure inclusivity and financial accessibility.

How is the community funded and financially sustained?

Initial funding comes from a mix of member contributions, event income, crowdfunding, and potential grants.

During ongoing operations, we have plans for producing income with the space, including running short and medium term lettings, renting out of the event space, and the ongoing membership fees.

What happens to the financial contributions if I leave the community?

If you choose to leave the community under the co-ownership model, your financial contributions are protected. When you buy into the community, you purchase shares in the co-op that represent your stake in the property. Upon leaving, the value of your shares will be calculated based on the current property valuation. The co-op will either reimburse you for your shares directly or facilitate their sale to a new or existing member. This ensures that your financial input is not lost and can be used toward your next living arrangement. Specific terms will be outlined in the co-op's legal agreements to safeguard both individual members and the collective.

Are there additional fees for events or workshops?

Yes, while some events and workshops may be included in membership, others may have additional fees to cover materials, facilitators, or other expenses. We strive to keep costs reasonable and communicate any fees in advance to ensure transparency and accessibility for all members.

Community Culture and Activities

How do you build a sense of community among members?

Building a sense of community among members is central to the success of Poly Heights. Here’s how we approach it:

1. Shared Spaces: We design communal areas like lounges, kitchens, and workspaces to encourage casual interactions, group activities, and collaboration.

2. Community Meetings: Regular meetings ensure everyone has a voice, fostering transparency, collective decision-making, and a shared sense of ownership.

3. Workshops and Events: We host educational sessions, social events, and wellness activities (like yoga or group discussions) to bring members together and promote shared interests.

4. Conflict Resolution Support: With mediation and communication training, we create a safe space for resolving disagreements constructively.

5. Shared Responsibilities: Members contribute to daily tasks and decision-making, fostering a sense of investment and cooperation.

6. Celebration of Diversity: We honor and celebrate each member’s unique identity and experiences, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment.

7. ‘Third Place’ Space: This community hub on the ground floor offers opportunities to connect with neighbors and external groups, blending the broader community with ours.

Together, these practices build trust, collaboration, and a vibrant, connected community.

What kind of workshops, events, or activities are organised?

Poly Heights plans to host a variety of workshops, events, and activities focused on personal growth, community building, and shared values:

• Workshops: Topics include sustainable living, permaculture, conflict resolution, relationship dynamics, intersectionality, and creative arts.

• Wellness Activities: Yoga, meditation, group fitness, and mental health support circles.

• Social Events: Movie nights, communal meals, seasonal celebrations, and member-led discussions.

• Skill-Sharing Sessions: Cooking, gardening, crafts, or technical skills taught by members.

• Community Outreach: Open events like meetups, panel discussions, and collaborations with local LGBTQ+ and activist groups.

• Educational Programs: Focused on environmental justice, personal finance, and community leadership.

These activities will ensure that Poly Heights remains a vibrant, supportive, and engaging space.

Are guests or visitors allowed to participate in communal events?

Yes, guests and visitors are welcome to participate in communal events at Poly Heights, but with some guidelines to ensure the comfort and safety of all members.

• Open Events: Many workshops, social gatherings, and activities in the 'Third Place' space are designed to be open to the wider community, including guests and visitors. These events foster connections with the broader LGBTQ+ and polyamorous communities.

• Private Community Events: Some activities may be exclusive to members to maintain intimacy and trust within the group.

• Guest Policies: Members are encouraged to invite friends or family to appropriate events, but we ask for prior notice and consideration of community agreements, such as respecting shared spaces and communal boundaries.

These policies aim to balance inclusivity with respect for the members' privacy and sense of belonging.

How does the community address the diverse needs of its members?

Poly Heights is committed to inclusivity and meeting the unique needs of its members by:

• Personalized Living Spaces: Providing private apartments for individual comfort and autonomy.

• Flexible Participation: Allowing members to engage in communal activities at their own pace.

• Open Communication: Hosting regular community meetings and using feedback channels to address concerns and adapt to evolving needs.

• Accessibility: Ensuring shared spaces are designed to be physically accessible and welcoming to all.

• Support Systems: Offering peer support, mental health resources, and conflict resolution processes.

• Celebrating Diversity: Respecting and uplifting different cultural, gender, and relationship identities through education and inclusive practices.

This approach creates a safe and nurturing environment for all members.

How does the community promote personal growth and wellness?

Poly Heights plans to foster growth and wellness through workshops, skill-sharing, and wellness activities. We will offer peer support, mental health resources, and a culture of empathy and active listening. Members will enjoy personal time in private spaces while also participating in shared celebrations and community-led initiatives.

Sustainability

What eco-friendly practices are implemented at Poly Heights?

We’re all about living in harmony with the planet. Here are some of the ways we want to make sustainability a part of everyday life:

• Solar Power: We use renewable energy like solar panels to power our community.

• Saving Water: Rainwater harvesting and water-saving fixtures help us use water wisely.

• Green Spaces: We grow organic gardens, compost, and practice permaculture to keep things as natural as possible.

• Cutting Waste: Recycling and aiming for zero waste are big priorities for us.

• Eco-Friendly Design: Our building uses sustainable materials and takes advantage of natural light and airflow.

• Learning Together: We run workshops on sustainable living to inspire eco-conscious habits.

By making these choices, we’re not just talking about sustainability—we’re living it.

Are there opportunities for members to participate in gardening or other sustainability projects?

Absolutely! At Poly Heights, we’re excited to involve members in gardening and sustainability projects. We hope to have community gardens where people can pitch in, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out. Members can help plant, maintain, and harvest, creating a wonderful space to grow fresh produce together.

How is waste managed in the community?

we’re planning to make waste management as eco-friendly as possible. Recycling will be a big focus, with clearly labeled bins for paper, plastics, glass, and more. Composting will also play a key role, turning food scraps into rich soil for our gardens.

We’ll encourage everyone to reduce waste by reusing items, buying responsibly, and sharing resources where possible. For anything that can’t be recycled or composted, we’ll work with local waste services to ensure it’s disposed of responsibly.

The goal is simple: minimize what goes to landfill and make waste management a team effort.

Legal and Practical Concerns

What kind of legal structure governs Poly Heights?

Poly Heights will operate as a co-operative society, which is a legal structure owned and run by its members. This model aligns perfectly with our values of inclusivity and shared decision-making. In a co-operative society, every member has an equal say, regardless of their financial contribution, ensuring that everyone's voice is heard.

Registered under the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014, this structure allows us to operate democratically and transparently. Members collectively own and manage the property, and any surplus generated will be reinvested into the community or used to benefit members.

This approach not only supports our mission to create a supportive and inclusive environment but also ensures that our operations are grounded in principles of cooperation and mutual aid.

Are there rules or guidelines members must follow?

At Poly Heights, our guidelines (Please see the manifesto) are designed to foster a supportive and inclusive community. We believe that clear, collaborative guidelines help us build strong relationships and ensure a harmonious living environment.

These guidelines are not just rules; they are our shared commitment to creating a nurturing, inclusive, and vibrant community where all members can thrive and contribute positively to our shared living experience. As we grow together, members will have opportunities to participate in the ongoing refinement of these guidelines, ensuring they remain relevant and supportive of our collective journey.

We recognise that there will on occasion be times when we do need to set rules, either in line with legal requirements or because of conflict between members, but we aim to keep hard rules lite.

What happens in case of an emergency or natural disaster?

At Poly Heights, the safety and well-being of our members are our top priorities. In case of an emergency or natural disaster, we’ll have a comprehensive emergency response plan in place. This will include:

• Preparedness Training: Regular training sessions and drills for all members to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency.

• Emergency Contacts: A clear list of emergency contacts and local services, including medical assistance, fire, and police.

• Communication Plan: A reliable way to communicate with all members quickly, whether through a group messaging app or community bulletin board.

• Evacuation Routes: Clearly marked evacuation routes and designated safe areas for members to gather.

• First Aid Kits: Accessible first aid supplies and members trained in basic first aid and CPR.

By being proactive and prepared, we aim to ensure that our community is ready to respond effectively to any emergency, providing support and care for each other when it matters most.

Are there insurance policies for members or the property?

Are there insurance policies for members or the property?

Yes, as we prioritize the safety and security of our community and property by implementing comprehensive insurance policies. Here's how we intend to approach this:

1. Property Insurance: We will secure property insurance to protect the communal living space, covering damages from natural disasters, accidents, and other unforeseen events. This insurance will safeguard the property and communal assets, ensuring that any necessary repairs or replacements can be managed without financial strain on the community.

2. Liability Insurance: We will also obtain liability insurance to protect against potential claims arising from accidents or injuries that may occur on the property. This coverage will help safeguard the community financially and provide peace of mind to all members.

3. Members’ Insurance: While the community will provide general coverage, we will encourage members to obtain their own renters' insurance or personal property insurance. This type of insurance can help protect individual belongings and provide additional liability coverage, ensuring that personal assets are safeguarded.

4. Emergency Preparedness: In addition to insurance, we will establish emergency preparedness plans and provide training for members on how to respond to various emergencies. This proactive approach will help ensure the safety of our community and enhance our resilience in the face of unexpected situations.

By combining comprehensive insurance coverage with community preparedness, Poly Heights aims to create a secure environment where members can thrive and feel confident in their living arrangements.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Is the space accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, accessibility is a priority at Poly Heights! Our community plans to feature ramps, wide doorways, and accessible bathrooms to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. We’ll design flexible living spaces that can be adapted to meet various needs, including sensory-friendly areas for those with sensory sensitivities. We’ll also seek input from members on accessibility features and provide training to promote awareness and understanding. Our goal is to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and can fully participate in community life.

How does the community ensure safety and inclusivity for marginalized groups?

At Poly heights, we want to prioritise safety and inclusivity for all members, particularly marginalized groups. We implement the following measures:

1. Clear Guidelines: We establish and communicate clear guidelines to foster respectful behavior, prohibit discrimination, and ensure that all voices are heard.

2. Safer Spaces: Designated safer spaces will be available for members to discuss concerns or experiences, fostering a sense of security and support.

3. Training and Education: We will provide training on topics such as anti-discrimination, cultural sensitivity, and conflict resolution to promote understanding and empathy within the community.

4. Community Support: Regular check-ins and open forums allow members to express their needs and experiences, ensuring that any issues are addressed promptly and collectively.

5. Diversity Celebrations: We celebrate the diverse identities within our community through events, workshops, and activities that promote awareness and appreciation of different cultures, experiences, and backgrounds.

By fostering an environment of respect and support, Poly Heights aims to create a welcoming space where all members can thrive, feel safe, and be their authentic selves.

Are there accommodations for different dietary preferences or restrictions?

Yes, Poly Heights is committed to accommodating various dietary preferences and restrictions. Our communal kitchen will be equipped for diverse cooking needs, and we’ll encourage open communication about individual dietary requirements. We aim to offer a variety of meal options during communal events. Members can collaborate on meal planning and share recipes to ensure everyone feels included and satisfied with their meals. Additionally, we may organize workshops focused on nutrition and diverse cooking techniques, fostering a supportive and inclusive dining experience for all.

Long-Term Vision

What are the long-term goals for Poly Heights?

The long-term goals for Poly Heights include:

1. Thriving Community: Build a stable and diverse community that fosters strong relationships and support among members.

2. Sustainability: Implement and enhance eco-friendly practices to minimise environmental impact.

3. Financial Stability: Develop diverse income streams to ensure the community's financial sustainability.

4. Growth: If the flagship property is a success, we can start to look to replicate the model in other cities.

5. Adaptation: Stay flexible to the changing needs of members, ensuring Poly Heights evolves and improves over time.

These goals aim to create an inclusive, sustainable, and empowering community that inspires others.

Can the community grow or expand in the future?

Yes, Poly Heights has the potential to grow and expand in the future: In fact, that is part of the core hope.

We envision creating additional living spaces, welcoming more members, and possibly even developing new communal areas to enhance our community experience. Expansion could also involve collaborating with other like-minded projects or establishing satellite spaces that share our values of inclusivity and sustainability.

As our community evolves, we’ll continually assess our needs and opportunities, ensuring that any growth aligns with our mission and maintains the supportive environment we’ve built. Ultimately, we’re excited about the possibilities for expanding our reach and impact while staying true to our core values.

How does Poly Heights inspire or connect with similar projects globally?

At Poly Heights, we hope to connect with similar projects around the world in a few key ways:

1. Sharing Our Journey: We document our experiences, both the ups and downs, to offer insights that can help others exploring communal living.

2. Building Relationships: By networking with global groups focused on communal living and queer spaces, we create opportunities for collaboration and support.

3. Hosting Fun Events: We organise workshops and webinars to talk about communal living and inclusivity, welcoming people from all over to join the conversation.

4. Highlighting Best Practices: We share what works well for us in terms of sustainability and inclusivity, encouraging others to adopt these values.

5. Being Active Online: Our social media presence allows us to share our journey and connect with like-minded folks everywhere.

Through these efforts, Poly Heights aims to be part of a vibrant global community that champions inclusive, sustainable living spaces for everyone.

What happens if the community doesn’t succeed financially or logistically?

Sadly, we recognise that many intentional communities face significant challenges, with a considerable number ultimately failing due to financial issues or internal conflicts, and most before the property is even purchased.

An often quoted statistic is that “90% of communities fail”, from Creating a Life Together, by Diana Leafe Christian.

At Poly Heights, we are committed to proactively addressing potential pitfalls by implementing a robust plan that includes:

1. Financial Resilience: We prioritise building diverse income streams and maintaining a financial reserve to help cushion against unexpected difficulties.

2. Open Communication: We maintain transparency with our members, ensuring everyone is informed about challenges and involved in discussions about potential solutions.

3. Collaborative Problem-Solving: We encourage members to come together to brainstorm strategies for overcoming obstacles, fostering a sense of shared responsibility.

4. Exit Strategies: In the event of a significant failure, we have plans in place for a safe dissolution of the community, ensuring that assets are managed responsibly and members are supported during the transition.

5. Learning and Growth: We view challenges as opportunities for improvement. By reflecting on what went wrong, we aim to adapt our practices and enhance our community's resilience.

While we acknowledge that the journey of communal living is fraught with difficulties, we believe that by working together and learning from each other, we can navigate these challenges and create a thriving, sustainable environment for all members.