Harbourside

A sustainable senior cohousing community on Vancouver Island, Canada

Harbourside is a neighbourhood for people in the second half of life that is affordable, environmentally friendly, and socially and culturally supportive, allowing members to flourish through mutual support as they age in place and in community.

Based on a former waterfront resort, Harbourside is near the centre of the small town of Sooke, a five-minute walk to groceries, concerts at the church, dances at the community hall, coffee shops, restaurants, the post office, the bus stop, and a level block from beautiful Ed Macgregor Park. The property was bought in 2013 and the first residents moved in in 2016.

By developing the project themselves – purchasing land, hiring and working directly with an architect and project manager, participating in monthly collective decision-making meetings – members were able to eschew a developer’s profit in favour of enhanced affordability. Individual units at Harbourside cost about 15% less than the average waterfront condo in the area, and owners benefit from generous shared spaces, including common areas, guest rooms and a dock. Residents can also minimize expenses by sharing cars, utilities, tools, gardens and meals. Harbourside is committed to “co-care” – providing everyday support to neighbours and offering amenities, like a care suite where family members or service providers can stay, allowing residents to get the care they need.

As well as 31 residential units and a common house, they enhanced their green space with the acquisition of ¾ acre of woodland adjacent to the property. The physical structures as well as the social fabric of the community nurture an innovative culture with lively connections to the larger society. While respecting personal privacy, Harbourside fosters cooperation, social connection and affordability through design and mutual support.

Their website includes much helpful information about the project, and enquiries about visits and participation are welcome.