The Christmas holidays have just passed - a time often associated with family gatherings, traditions, and togetherness.

But for those of us living far from our families, like myself as an expat, the holidays can bring a different perspective on what “family” truly means.  

As I wrote in a previous article, when you’re an expat, you have to find your tribe. It’s rarely the family you were born into by bloodline but rather your “chosen” family - the people who see you on a daily basis, support you, and share life with you in meaningful ways.  

In this evolving world of digital connection yet increasing isolation, co-living offers a way to reimagine these bonds. It’s no longer just about sharing space - it’s about redefining family and building the kind of tribe that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are.  

This isn’t just theory for me - it’s my life.  

A New Kind of Family Tribe  

The traditional family structure often revolved around blood ties and shared history. But as society changes, so does the definition of family.

Today, some of us are looking for something different - a chosen tribe based on mutual support, shared values, and the flexibility to create a life that fits our unique needs.  

Co-living speaks to this shift. It moves beyond the practicalities of housing to address deeper human needs, fostering intentional communities where connection is at the core.  

Driving this trend are global forces like the rise in urban loneliness and the growing population of digital nomads. Urban loneliness - fuelled by the fast pace of city life, shrinking social networks, and increasing individualism - has become a defining issue in many major cities. Meanwhile, the digital nomad lifestyle, characterised by mobility and remote work, has created a new group of people seeking temporary yet meaningful communities wherever they land.  

Additionally, our modern world has made it easier than ever to move abroad and settle down elsewhere. Improved technology, transportation, and global connectivity have given many the freedom to relocate.

Yet, for others, circumstances such as work often force these moves, pulling people away from their established support systems and leaving them to rebuild their sense of belonging in a new place.  

But can co-living really fill the gap left by traditional family structures? I believe it can - and I’ve experienced it firsthand.

My Modern Family - A Personal Story  

I live with my daughter and my ex-husband.

Yes, you read that right. My former partner isn’t just my co-parent - he’s my roommate, my confidant, and my most beloved friend.  

We’ve chosen to build a home together, not as lovers but as allies in life. He knows me better than anyone else, and I know him. We’ve been through the trenches of marriage, separation, and now co-living, and we’ve come out on the other side as stronger, more supportive versions of ourselves. That doesn’t mean it’s been an easy ride. Creating a life “together apart” has taken, and continues to take, a lot of work. Like any relationship in any shape or form, ours requires effort, communication, and a commitment to making it work.  

What truly unites us is our shared drive to connect with others and build community. We both thrive in creating meaningful relationships and spaces where people feel welcome. Our shared home has become a central part of this mission, a space we intentionally use to bring people together and foster connections that matter.  

For years, we’ve welcomed friends, family, and neighbours into our space, creating an atmosphere where relationships flourish and a sense of belonging thrives.  

We also genuinely enjoy hanging out together, and we thrive on the connections we make with others. A big part of our shared journey is our commitment to expanding our community and giving it meaning. Whether hosting gatherings or simply creating a welcoming environment, we constantly work to bring people together and build relationships that matter. This choice reflects our dedication to creating an environment of mutual support and love rather than adhering to traditional expectations.  

Belonging in an Age of Individualism  

The rise of co-living is part of a broader cultural shift. In a world where individualism is celebrated, people are finding themselves more disconnected than ever. Studies on loneliness show that even those with financial security and successful careers sometimes miss one key thing: connection.  

Sweden serves as one of many examples of this issue. The Swedish Public Health Agency released a report last spring highlighting the growing problem of loneliness, especially among young adults and the elderly. The report underscored that loneliness is not just a personal struggle but a societal issue with significant implications for public health.  

Co-living provides an opportunity to bridge these gaps, offering spaces designed for shared living and deeper relationships. It’s an answer to the growing need for connection, where people come together by choice to support and grow with one another. For me, co-living has reshaped the way I view home. It’s no longer confined to a traditional definition but reflects a dynamic space where meaningful connections are nurtured.  

The Evolution of the Tribe  

The modern family tribe adapts to the realities of today’s world, moving beyond rigid structures to embrace flexibility and individuality.   

For some, it’s a co-living community with shared meals and movie nights. For others, it’s a chosen family of friends who feel closer than siblings. For me, it’s the unique bond I share with my ex-husband, where we create a home that prioritises safety, connection, and growth, while fully supporting each other’s independence and relationships.  

This is about more than practical solutions; it’s about building a life that prioritises belonging, care, and shared purpose.  

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Let’s Wrap This Up  

The rise of co-living reflects a response to housing challenges and a broader cultural shift. In a world where individualism often takes center stage, the need for connection and community has never been greater. Co-living challenges traditional definitions of family and home by creating opportunities to build meaningful relationships and foster a sense of belonging.  

My own experience of co-living with my ex-husband and daughter has shown how redefining family can lead to a richer and more connected life. Our shared home has become a hub where relationships thrive, and the bonds we choose to nurture are as meaningful - if not more so - than those we inherit.  

That said, this isn’t about replacing traditional family structures or reshaping society as a whole. A traditional family can be just as fulfilling and connected. What matters most is creating a setup that works for you, whether that’s a conventional family unit, a chosen tribe, or something in between.  

Co-living offers one way to explore relationships and build a sense of belonging, especially in a world where loneliness and disconnection are growing challenges. It provides the chance to form meaningful connections and support systems that fit individual needs and lifestyles.  

As we move forward, let’s celebrate the diversity in how we create our homes and relationships. Whether traditional or reimagined, family and community remain at the heart of what makes life truly fulfilling.  

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