Glossary of terms
Definitions of frequently used terms. These terms are not separate categories, and in many cases they overlap or describe different aspects of communities.
Collaborative Housing – an umbrella term that encompasses the large variation of collectively self-organised and self-managed housing forms, including co-housing, housing co-operatives, and community land trusts (CLTs), amongst others. (https://co-lab-research.net/aboutus)
Intentional Communities – the broadest term that encompasses a wide range of groups who intend to live together as a community. There are many ways people describe their intentional communities: cohousing groups, ecovillages, community networks, support organizations, as well as people seeking a home in community. A planned residential community designed from the start to have a high degree of social cohesion and teamwork. (http://www.ic.org/)
Cohousing – a community planned with private homes and common use buildings. Often includes smaller size homes, environmentally friendly design, and pedestrian friendly layouts. Often has shared areas like yards, gardens, community kitchen, workshops, and more. (cohousing.org)
Co-living – Multi-bedroom houses leased by groups of people. Residents share the desire to live cooperatively, and share spaces including kitchens, living areas, garages, and yards. Also called “co-householding.” (www.coliving.org)
ADU – Accessory Dwelling Unit. Term to refer to secondary houses in backyards, granny flats, converted garages, and structures like tiny homes. ADUs are regulated by the state and cities.
Ecovillages – intentional communities whose goal is to become more socially, economically and ecologically sustainable. (http://gen.ecovillage.org/)
Co-operative “co-op” – Housing cooperatives are businesses owned and run by and for their resident members. Members own the property together as shareholders in the co-op. (https://www.cccd.coop/co-op-info/co-op-types/housing-co-ops)
Community Land Trust – a nonprofit organization that owns land and oversees its use for a specific purpose. For example, the Beverly Vermont Community Land Trust for affordable housing (http://www.bvclt.org/)
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