The whole of humanity received an unexpected shock brought by the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. The cities were locked down and there was a pressing need to practice social distancing.

Even though the co-living industry was adversely affected by the developments, it used technology to evolve and bounce back. The whole situation made co-living spaces take proactive actions to make them safe and hygienic.

The nomadic millennials are slowly transforming the idea of home. The real estate sector of India is having a makeover. The idea of shared living is gaining a trend, particularly among the young.

India surprisingly has an interesting history of shared living. It has been here for ages. Dharmashala was a concept similar to that of modern Paying Guests or Student Accommodations.

In today’s digital age, the generation that’s mostly online greatly feels benefitted only if they have flexible affordable living options. Because of this shift, even the rental housing trends are changing. 

The co-living solution is an attractive package for them, mainly because it eliminates huge security deposits and the hassle of dealing with brokers. 

Following the Covid-19 pandemic, the co-living industry was adversely affected. Co-living during Covid was challenging. There was a need to practice social distancing, and transform the spaces into safe and hygienic accommodations.

Here is how Co-living Evolved during Covid  

Safety and Hygiene

Safety and hygiene is every customer’s priority. Social distancing seems to stay as a norm for the foreseeable future. The co-living players are now focusing on reinventing themselves.

Organized players and established brands are a step ahead. They have effectively used the new opportunity presented. 

They have implemented regular stringent checks and proper hygiene practices. Such things are monitored by in-house management apps. They track the sanitization levels of the building and take appropriate action. 

Security Measures & Applications

Smartphones are now indispensable. Co-living players are now relying on mobile applications to interact and make their residents comfortable. Such applications ensure seamless communication and quick service.

Through those built-in apps, you can log issues, request meals, laundry services and more. You can even request to change your roommate. This new system is designed to facilitate faster solutions.

Co-living spaces see safety and security as their top priority. Most of them have biometric or facial recognition set-ups. There is also undoubtedly a 24X7 concierge and presence of the security guards. 

Digitization

Digital technology has proved to be a great gift, especially in recent challenging times. It is most suited when face-to-face interaction is impossible.

Co-living spaces have used this technology to make move-in and move-out procedures easy. They are effectively managed by tools and apps.

When there are new safety protocols introduced, they have changed the way of their messaging and how it is reflected in the email or app notification.

The co-living players are also keen on investing in the latest technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. They are set to make their services as user-friendly as possible, by learning customer behavior and providing customized services. 

Virtual Community

This is a sector mainly involving physical locations. But digital tools are helping now to foster a sense of community. Community is an important and essential element of the co-living space. Regular in-person meets form a huge part of this living experience.

When they are not possible physically, online meet-ups are arranged. These online events range from cooking classes, music sessions, to even virtual dance parties. 

This enhances the feeling of communal living among the residents. Interactivity is what makes these events successful. The online feedback system allows the residents to suggest their ideas for future events.

Millennials and Gen-Z are constantly online and on the move. They see co-living as the most preferred mode of accommodation. It offers an affordable, safe, hygienic and comfortable living option.

Shared living faced a difficult challenge during the pandemic, many people started preferring single occupancies. As its effect is slowly waning down, co-living is again making progress.

Technology is playing a key role in making co-living exciting. Technology in Co-living is used to implement Gamification techniques that are used to motivate residents’ living experiences and trigger behavioral changes. 

These are done aiming to increase participation in events, take steps to avoid wastage and engage with other residents.

Technology is also used to enhance security in co-living spaces. Smart locks and digital check-ins are now the norms. Residents can now easily access their rooms without any physical keys. It is not only convenient but also helps in keeping a check on the security measures. 

Concluding Thoughts

Co-living players are perfectly equipped with modern tech to meet the demand of new generation residents. They include many features to make the living experience exceptional. 

As things are now settling in from the pandemic, newer opportunities are emerging. With the advancement in technology, and by their adoption by co-living spaces, the living experience is made unforgettably great.