Tuesday, November 28th, 2023

Urban Campus has officially announced the opening of a new coliving space: Urban Campus Avenida América, Madrid Coliving!

• This is a new operation in partnership with the French group Batipart.
• The new coliving space is scheduled to open in March 2024.
• With this project, Urban Campus plans to end 2023 operating more than 406 units in Spain.

Urban Campus Avenida América, Madrid Coliving 

Real estate leader Urban Campus continues its expansion with the opening of a new coliving space in Madrid, named “Urban Campus Avenida América, Madrid Coliving.”

This project will be the company’s sixth coliving in Madrid, located at 23 Béjar Street. It includes 54 units and more than 2,042 square meters with modernly designed rooms, studios, and common areas. The coliving is scheduled to open its doors in March 2024.

Consistent with the ethos of Urban Campus’ coliving spaces, the Avenida de América residence is designed to provide an immersive community-focused living experience. It will feature a array of accommodation options, from private rooms to expansive studios. 

The building also boasts over 105 square meters of space of common zones, embodying the signature Urban Campus experience. These common areas will be comprised of a coworking space, fitness center, communal kitchen, internal patio, and multiple terraces. Plus, there will be dedicated bicycle parking.

Sustainability

Committed to sustainability, Urban Campus has redesigned and optimized the building to conserve energy and resources. They used furniture for both the common areas and rooms from locally certified ESG brands, including recycled materials and FSC-certified or recycled woods. 

Additionally, the common areas will be equipped with automatic sensors that modulate lighting and air conditioning. This will help promote resource conservation and reduce the building’s environmental footprint.

The Growth of Urban Campus

The inauguration of Urban Campus’s Avenida América location represents a significant milestone in the company’s expansion journey. Urban Campus has set its sights on concluding 2023 with a substantial portfolio of 406 units under operation. This achievement paves the way for an impressive growth projection, which is forecasted to exceed 200% for the upcoming year of 2024.

With the execution of this new coliving space, Urban Campus also continues to strengthen its relationship with Batipart. Batipart has acted as the investor and promoter for this new building, while Urban Campus is developing the design and will manage its daily operation after opening.

Casilda Mulliez, Head of Business Development – Iberia, highlighted: “This new operation represents a significant step in implementing our strategic plan. It will allow us to end 2023 achieving our goal of operating more than 406 beds. We are proud of our sustained growth, and continue to listen to the service and design needs of our residents. This has also helped position us as leaders in terms of the average length of stays, which already exceed 12 months.”

Explore more Urban Campus news here: 

• Urban Campus announces the opening of Cuatro Caminos II
• Casilda Mulliez & Urbanitae discuss the growth of coliving
• Build to Rent: what is it and how does it work?
• What is coliving and why is it so popular?

In recent years, a new housing trend has been sweeping across big cities worldwide, offering a fresh approach to communal living. Known as coliving, this housing model has gained immense popularity for its innovative approach to shared living spaces. As this concept continues to grow and gain public attention, you might find yourself wondering…what is coliving? Well, we are here to help explain exactly that. 

What is coliving?

Technically speaking, coliving is a broad term that encompasses various communal living arrangements. Coliving involves sharing a living space with like-minded people of a similar age group, which in turn fosters a sense of community and connection. Professional hosts typically manage coliving spaces and facilitate the communal experience, unlike with traditional roommates. Here are some key characteristics of coliving:

• Intentional Community: Communities are often formed with a specific purpose, uniting people who share similar values, interests, or lifestyles.
• Flexible Design: Spaces are flexibly designed and fully furnished. Residents can move in without the hassle of setting up a home from scratch.
• Multiple Roommates: There are typically five or more adult roommates who live together.
• Flexible Leases: Most arrangements offer flexible lease terms, allowing residents to adapt their stay easily and according to their needs.
• Convenient Perks: There are special amenities like cleaning services, making daily life more comfortable and convenient.

Different types of coliving

Informal (or “Traditional”) Shared Housing

This type of coliving involves a group of individuals who share a lease and furnish a home together. People can form these shared housing arrangements through personal networks, and with the help of platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

Adult Dorms

Similar to university dorms or hotels, adult dorms feature private rooms surrounded by common areas. A large number of residents share these common zones and communal spaces, and also share useful amenities. Spaces like these are typically built to house a large number of residents, around 100 or more. 

Co-ops

Cooperative housing involves residents who collaborate to manage the house they are living in, taking turns with tasks such as cleaning and cooking. Residents living in co-ops set their own rules and manage the space themselves. The number of residents can range from 15 to over 100. 

Co-housing

Co-housing communities consist of single-family homes within one large, common house. Residents share green spaces and often organize events, creating a close-knit community.

Coliving Trips

For a short term, activity-packed experience, coliving trips bring together entrepreneurs and digital nomads from diverse backgrounds in a new place.

Coliving Spaces & Buildings

Coliving spaces are specially designed environments where like-minded individuals of similar ages and values live together. These spaces often revolve around a sense of creativity and entrepreneurship. Each resident has their own private unit, which can range from smaller studios to larger apartments. Plus, the provider typically organizes a variety of community activities that residents can enjoy.

What is the difference between coliving and roommates?

While coliving involves shared living spaces with a community-oriented approach, roommates typically refer to individuals who share living space without any sort of structured community. Coliving often emphasizes shared values and experiences, while roommates may simply share the cost of housing.

Who is coliving for?

Coliving is suitable for a wide range of individuals, including:

• Young People: Especially those looking for people with similar interests and desires.
• Open-Minded Individuals: Those looking to expand their social network and embrace a sense of community.
• Newcomers: People who are new to an area or city and want to quickly integrate into a community.
• Professionals and Entrepreneurs: Particularly those seeking an environment filled with creativity and passionate individuals.
• Community Enthusiasts: Those who value being part of a supportive community that fosters personal growth.

At Urban Campus, we have designed our spaces with young professionals in mind. We welcome people from all corners of the world, often between the ages of 25 and 40, who are freelancers or entrepreneurs, or who work for startups or larger corporations.

What are the advantages of coliving?

• Knowledge Sharing and Networking: there is increased encouragement of professional and personal networking, allowing residents to learn from each other.
• Ease of Making Friends: It’s easier to meet new people and make friends, especially in a new city.
• Inspiration for Creativity and Collaboration: The diverse and dynamic environment can spark new creative ventures.
• Flexible Leases: There are often flexible lease terms to accommodate residents’ changing needs.
• International Environment: Coliving often brings together people from all over the world, creating diverse cultural communities.

Why is coliving so popular?

Several key factors explain the popularity of coliving. In an age marked by digital interactions, the desire for genuine community and connection has driven many people to embrace coliving as a means of forging meaningful relationships. Additionally, the convenience and amenities enhance the quality of daily life, especially since flexible lease terms cater to those with changing plans. Furthermore, coliving’s appeal lies in its ability to draw individuals with inventive and creative spirits, fostering innovation and collaboration.

Why stay with Urban Campus?

Since 2016, Urban Campus has been creating top-notch coliving spaces for young professionals in France and Spain. Here’s why we believe our spaces are the best around. 

• Flexible Leases: We require only a 30-day notice period for changes or cancellations, providing flexibility to residents.
• Long-Term Community: The average stay at Urban Campus is 12 months, fostering the development of long-lasting relationships.
• All-Inclusive: We provide everything from furnishings and utilities to cutlery, plates, Wi-Fi, cleaning, and laundry. You only have to worry about one payment each month for everything. See everything included in our spaces here.  
• Simplified Online Process: Urban Campus offers a streamlined online application process for a hassle-free experience. 
• Built-in Community: Our exciting monthly events, including everything from language exchanges to beer tastings to sports tournaments, create a vibrant sense of community.

FAQs about coliving

Is coliving available for couples? 

• Yes, at Urban Campus we can accommodate couples.

What is the average length of stay? 

• At Urban Campus, the average length of stay is 12 months.

How can I find more information? 

• To learn more, you can explore our different Urban Campus spaces on our coliving page.

Can I cancel or extend my stay? 

• Of course! You can cancel your stay at Urban Campus with a 30-day notice period after the initial minimum stay duration. The minimum stay duration depends on your specific city and space. 

In recent years, the concepts of coliving, shared housing, and intergenerational residences have gained significant traction within the housing market. Urban Campus, a pioneer in creating innovative living spaces, has been at the forefront of this transformation. This article delves into the burgeoning trends of innovative housing solutions. These include supported living, shared living, coliving, co-residence, communal living, and intergenerational living. Plus, we will highlight the substantial appeal these varying trends hold for people of all ages. 

Coliving & intergenerational living attract young workers and seniors

The 21st century has ushered in a remarkable shift in housing preferences, moving beyond the traditional single-family home or apartment living. Supported living, shared living, coliving, co-residence, communal living, and intergenerational living have all emerged as compelling alternatives. Urban Campus, recognizing the evolving needs of urban dwellers in a hyper-digital world, has been a leader in this transformation.

The emergence of these housing solutions can be attributed to an increasing societal need for social connection and community. In an era dominated by remote work and technology, individuals often find themselves facing isolation. Communal housing options aim to bridge that gap by offering spaces that foster genuine human interaction and a shared sense of belonging. They provide opportunities for residents to form authentic connections and a stronger sense of belonging.

Supported Living: A helping hand for all ages

Supported living is a burgeoning concept that encompasses a range of housing options designed to provide residents with assistance and care tailored to their specific needs. This includes not only the elderly but also individuals with disabilities or those requiring medical support. Supported living aims to ensure that residents can enjoy a comfortable, secure, and inclusive living experience.

Shared Living: Fostering community and affordability

Shared living has gained immense popularity among millennials and Gen Z. It involves individuals, often strangers, sharing living spaces while benefiting from reduced costs and an enhanced sense of community. Shared living can foster connections, collaboration, and personal growth among its residents.

Coliving: Creating rich communities for digital nomads and young professionals 

Coliving takes shared living a step further, providing residents a strong sense of community and intentionally-designed common spaces. The concept of coliving has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity in recent years, especially as young professionals seek innovative and community-oriented housing solutions. 

Urban Campus has been a leader in coliving throughout both France and Spain. Our dynamic coliving spaces serve as hubs of collaboration, creativity, and social interaction, providing residents with an unparalleled living experience. Through thoughtfully designed spaces and a vibrant calendar of events, Urban Campus fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie among its residents. These factors all come together to make coliving a truly enriching and fulfilling lifestyle choice.

Intergenerational Living: Bridging the Generation Gap

Intergenerational living is a concept where different generations have a co-residence under one roof, sharing life experiences and forming unique bonds. It allows seniors to find companionship and support, while young professionals benefit from guidance and wisdom. The interplay of generations creates an enriching living environment that benefits all residents.

Overall, the growing popularity of coliving and other innovative housing solutions reflects a broader shift in how individuals approach shared living arrangements. Urban Campus continues to contribute to this evolving landscape of shared housing through the expansion of their dynamic and community-oriented coliving spaces. As the housing market continues to evolve, it’s clear that these innovative trends are shaping the future of communal living.  Individuals are seeking enhanced connection and a deeper sense of belonging in their environment, which will continue to fuel this growth. 

When it comes to the world of real estate investment, there are two primary categories that prospective investors often consider: commercial and residential properties. Both of these categories serve distinct purposes, offer unique advantages, and require different strategies for success. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the benefits of commercial vs. residential real estate, as well as emerging real estate trends. Plus, we will outline some essential steps to embark on a successful real estate investment journey. 

Types of Real Estate: Commercial vs. Residential Real Estate

The fundamental distinction between commercial vs. residential real estate lies in their intended use.

Commercial properties encompass a wide range of real estate assets, including office buildings, retail spaces and industrial warehouses. These properties are primarily used for business activities, typically housing commercial tenants who rent space for various business operations.

Residential properties, on the other hand, include single family homes, duplexes, apartments, condominiums and multifamily properties. These properties are designed for individuals and families looking for a place to call home. 

Benefits of Commercial vs. Residential Real Estate

Commercial Real Estate

Commercial properties offers a range of advantages for real estate investors. First, commercial properties often provide higher rental income potential compared to residential properties. Businesses are usually willing to pay a premium for space in areas with high foot traffic and visibility, making commercial properties a potentially lucrative investment. Stable, long term leases are also a common feature of commercial real estate. Commercial leases can be more lengthy than residential ones, providing more security for the investor. Commercial tenants often commit to multi-year leases, reducing turnover and vacancy rates.

Residential Real Estate

Residential leases typically come with predictable rental income, as residential tenants are often individuals or families seeking a stable place to live. Lease terms are generally shorter, providing opportunities to adjust rental rates more frequently. Managing residential properties can be less complex, especially in the case of single-family homes or small multifamily properties. Plus, residential properties can also experience property appreciation over time, contributing to the overall return on investment.

Steps to Embark in Real Estate Property Investment

Depending on your interests and goals regarding commercial vs. residential real estate, it is important to consider the following…

• Educate Yourself: With commercial properties, begin by thoroughly understanding the types of commercial properties available and their associated risk profile. Consider the specific requirements of businesses in your target market. For residential properties, gain a deep understanding of the local residential real estate market, property types, and tenant demographics. Stay informed about current market trends.
• Secure Financing: Explore various financing options, including initial costs and loans with lower loan-to-value ratios. Assess your financial capacity to determine the best financing approach.
• Conduct Due Diligence: Conduct thorough market research, evaluating property potential for long-term growth. Assess factors such as location, market demand, property condition and property management requirements. 
• Network: Focus on building relationships with commercial or residential real estate agents, brokers, and property owners, and even local real estate investment groups. Networking can provide insights into market trends and opportunities.
• Lease Negotiations: Develop strong negotiation skills, and familiarize yourself with applicable laws in your area. Understanding the needs of your future tenants is crucial to this step.

Residential Real Estate in Spain

The residential real estate market in Spain remains a robust sector for investment. In 2022, home sales in Spain increased by 14.7%, totaling 649,712 transactions, as reported by the National Statistics Institute (INE). This figure is the second-highest in history, only surpassed by the year 2007. Notably, the most significant transactions occurred in major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Málaga, Sevilla, and Valencia, where populations exceed 50,000. 

The entire year of 2022 marked a historic high in residential market investment, totaling 15.4 billion euros. This demonstrated a 35% growth compared to 2021 and a 21% increase over the previous peak in 2019. Additionally, investment in Build-to-Rent (BTR) and Private Rental Sector (PRS) projects reached a historic high at 2.6 billion euros in 2022. These numbers highlight the enduring strength of Spain’s residential real estate market.

Coliving 

Coliving is a rapidly growing real estate trend gaining popularity not only in Europe but on a global scale. It involves residents sharing a property, often a spacious house, building, or multi-bedroom apartment, with private rooms for each tenant and communal spaces that foster a sense of community. The growth of coliving can be attributed to shifting socioeconomic dynamics like increasing housing costs and changing lifestyle preferences. All of these factors offer promising prospects for the continued development of the coliving sector.

Coliving occupies a unique position in the real estate landscape, as coliving properties can be managed commercially or residentially. Urban Campus, for instance, takes a residential approach to managing coliving spaces. Our properties have a diverse range of private units and lively communal areas, such as lounges, coworking spaces, terraces, gyms, shared kitchens, and patios. An additional value of coliving is the strong sense of community. At Urban Campus, we organize engaging events that help facilitate these connections, which can be especially meaningful in the midst of a bustling urban city.

Check out Urban Campus’ most recent real estate projects here: 

• New coliving announced in Madrid, “Cuatro Caminos II”  coming in 2024
• Urban Campus opening 6th building in Madrid, near Plaza Mayor
• 78 studio coliving in Bagneux
• Two build-to-rent buildings acquired by Primonial REIM

It is no secret that we all want the easiest moving experience possible. 

At Urban Campus, we have made it a priority to simplify the moving process and provide convenience for our colivers. We have an expansive list of amenities all included the cost of your rent, so you only have to worry about paying one single bill every month. That’s right – when you pay your monthly rent, there is everything from Netflix to cleaning to utilities included. 

Cleaning and utilities included…what else? 

What does “utilities included” really mean? 

Our spaces at Urban Campus are fully furnished and equipped for you to move in. All you need to bring is your suitcase and toothbrush. Our goal is to make your transition to your new home smooth and stress-free, so we have taken care of all the essentials. No plates, cutlery, or household items needed! You’ll find everything for a comfortable living experience already in our Urban Campus coliving spaces. 

Utilities Included

The utilities included in your monthly rent include…

Cleaning Supplies 

No matter what type of unit you are moving into, it will be cleaned and prepared before your move-in date. Plus, there is a weekly cleaning service included in your monthly rent. However, we also provide cleaning supplies for your own personal use, which includes…

Kitchen Appliances

Kitchen appliances can certainly be harder to find in your average apartment, but we’ve got you covered. The appliances we provide include…

Kitchen Items

Living Room Furniture 

Bedroom Items

Office Area 

• Desk 
• Chair 
• Desk lamp

Bathroom Items

We hope that this comprehensive overview has clarified everything included in an Urban Campus coliving. While there are pros and cons to every style of living, having all of these amenities included in one single bill is certainly a considerable advantage. If you’re interested in seeing more detailed walk-throughs of our coliving spaces, explore our coliving tours on our YouTube Channel. 

Urban Campus takes pride in being more than just a rental property; we’re a community-focused living solution. At Urban Campus, our unwavering mission is to streamline your relocation process, allowing you to devote your energy to forging connections within your new community.

As demonstrated by our comprehensive list of amenities, we are fully prepared to cater to your requirements. The only question that remains is: are you ready to join us? 

Have you heard of coworking? 

In a world where work dynamics are frequently shifting, coworking has become a game-changer. In 2020, many of us became remote workers and enjoyed the flexibility of working from home. But as we slowly swapped suits for pajamas and office spaces for bedrooms, the value of office socialization became evident. On the other hand, the traditional routine of dressing up and commuting to an office Monday – Friday remains largely unappealing. The benefits of coworking spaces help solve this dilemma. Coworking blends these two worlds for a healthy balance of work autonomy and community. 

Why are coworking spaces important? 

In its most basic definition, a coworking space is a neutral space where individuals from various professional backgrounds come together to work. Coworking spaces are havens for freelancers, digital nomads and remote workers. They also welcome employees whose companies opt for a flexible workspace. In the shared office, there are people from different companies and industries, fostering a vibrant cross-pollination of ideas and collaborations. Plus, coworking spaces often boast many shared amenities you’d find in a traditional office.

History of the coworking revolution

The concept of coworking emerged in the early 2000s, offering freelancers a much-needed alternative to working from home or local cafes. Prior to this, the concept of coworking can be traced to “Hackerspaces” created in Berlin in the 1990s. These spaces were designed to welcome and foster work collaboration among different computer enthusiasts. 

The term “coworking” was officially coined by Bernard DeKoven in 1999, initially emphasizing a collaborative work approach rather than a physical space. In the following years, coworking spaces as we know them today started appearing in Vienna, Austria (2002), and San Francisco, USA (2005). Starting in 2006, the number of coworking spaces worldwide doubled annually, and this trend continued for seven years straight. 

What are the benefits of coworking spaces?

Many notable businesses like Instagram, Uber, and Spotify all had their beginnings in coworking environments. Now, in 2023, there are over 5 million coworkers and 19,000 coworking spaces globally. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of coworking spaces that have helped to fuel this rapid growth.

Coworking reduces loneliness  

Anyone who has worked completely remotely knows that loneliness can be a real challenge. One of the remarkable benefits of coworking spaces is the opportunity to build meaningful community. These spaces encourage professionals from various backgrounds to exchange ideas and build relationships beyond their own companies and fields. Working in a coworking space eliminates the solitude of a home office, and gives you potential for more professional connections and friendships. On average, 89% of members report being happier after joining a coworking space.  

Productivity and creativity

Coworking spaces have proven to be instrumental in boosting productivity, with a staggering 74% of coworkers reporting increased efficiency. This surge in productivity is attributed to the heightened social and collaborative atmosphere. Additionally, coworking spaces offer a greater degree of job control, allowing coworkers to tailor their work environment to suit their preferences. Whether it’s opting for a quiet, focused corner or a more social, interactive setting, coworking spaces empower professionals to customize their work experience. This ultimately contributes to enhanced productivity.

Business tools & support 

Coworking spaces offer many crucial resources that parallel those found in conventional office settings. These resources typically include meeting rooms and collaborative workspaces, plus fundamental tools like printers and copiers. Depending on the coworking space, you can also expect to find coffee makers, lockers, bike racks, community managers, and sometimes special features like meditation rooms and creative studios. These tools are a cost-effective solution for freelancers and digital nomads who often lack access to essential work resources. 

Hotspots for collaboration & networking opportunities  

Coworking spaces are dynamic hubs for collaboration and networking opportunities. These spaces foster an environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds can all interact, fueling opportunities for connection, ideation, and meaningful relationships. With professionals working on a wide range of projects and ventures, coworking spaces naturally facilitate networking. It is easier to to create fresh ideas, foster collaborations, and even ignite new career possibilities.

Coworking with Urban Campus 

If you’re intrigued by the concept of coworking, explore our Urban Campus spaces.

At Urban Campus, we offer premium coliving spaces, each featuring an integrated coworking area. This coworking facility is seamlessly included in your rental package, alongside an array of communal amenities, including lounges, terraces, shared kitchens, and fitness centers. You have the flexibility to choose from a variety of private accommodations, whether it’s rooms, studios, or apartments, all while enjoying social environments of our shared spaces. Moreover, we host weekly events to facilitate socializing and community-building, helping you get connected with a supportive community.

Photo Credits: 

• All external photos used through Canva Free Media License

September 6th, 2023

• Urban Campus announces the opening of Cuatro Caminos II for 2024. This project is the second phase of the Cuatro Caminos Madrid Coliving, already operated by Urban Campus and located on Topete Street.
• This new coliving meets significant sustainability benchmarks. The project is build in alignment with the passivhaus standard, is carbon neutral, and will serve as a renewable energy producer. 
• Cuatro Caminos II will be the first coliving space with a wooden structural framework in all of Spain. 
• The developer and investor is the French group Batipart.

Cuatro Caminos II

Urban Campus, in partnership with Batipart, continues their leadership in the coliving space.

They are embarking on an innovative venture, constructing the very first coliving space with a wooden structural framework in all of Spain. Situated in the vibrant Tetuán district of Madrid, Cuatro Caminos II Madrid Coliving represents a significant step forward in the field of coliving, championing environmental sustainability and resource efficiency. This project is the second phase of the Cuatro Caminos Madrid Coliving, already operated by Urban Campus and located on Topete Street.

Cuatro Caminos II Madrid Coliving will span approximately 1,825 square meters with 32 units (rooms in clusters), each equipped with private bathrooms, shared kitchens and lounges. Residents will enjoy an array of amenities characteristic of Urban Campus coliving spaces. These include coworking zones, fitness facilities, a shared kitchen, an interior courtyard, terraces, and bicycle parking.

Leadership in Carbon Neutral Emissions

Efficiency and sustainability are at the heart of Urban Campus’s mission, and this project exemplifies their commitment. Many of the company’s buildings already hold prestigious sustainability certifications like BREEAM. However, Cuatro Caminos II Madrid Coliving stands out as their first project featuring a wooden structural framework, marking a pioneering achievement in Spain’s coliving landscape.

Furthermore, this coliving facility will be constructed in line with the Passivhaus standard and will achieve carbon neutrality, resulting in an impressive 80% reduction in energy consumption for its residents. The building will even serve as a renewable energy producer, generating 20 kWp of photovoltaic power. Notably, excess renewable energy will partially supply the neighboring building, the first phase of the coliving project, which is already operational. Thanks to its wooden structure and high-efficiency measures, the building will hold a CO2-neutral certification throughout its lifecycle.

The Growth of Urban Campus

Casilda Mulliez, head of Real Estate and Business Development at Urban Campus, expressed the importance of this project. “This new project is a significant reflection of Urban Campus’s strategic direction: leading new residential models that are not only efficient but also sustainable. We are one of the largest coliving operators and leaders in carbon-neutral assets, positioning us as a market reference.”

This is a collaborative project in which several actors are involved. Batipart, as developer and investor; sAtt, as architectural firm and Artelia as Project Manager, among others. Urban Campus has already participated in the development of the coliving architecturally and will participate in the design and conceptualization of the interior. They will also be in charge of managing the building.

Cuatro Caminos Madrid Coliving Phase I is already operational, while construction has commenced on the second building. The grand opening of Cuatro Caminos II Madrid Coliving is scheduled for the last quarter of 2024.

July 20th, 2023

• Casilda Mulliez & Urbanitae discuss the growth of coliving while she reflects on Urban Campus’ recent expansion and future plans.

The interview discusses the growing popularity of coliving as a housing trend in Spain. Coliving involves residents sharing common spaces and living in a community, providing an alternative to traditional residential rentals. Urban Campus is dedicated to creating and managing coliving buildings, emerging in 2016 to address the changing needs of younger generations who prioritize digital services and community living.

Urban Campus in Valencia

Urban Campus manages several coliving buildings in European cities, including Lille, France and multiple locations in Madrid. The company recently launched its first greenfield coliving building in Valencia, Spain with support from White Investing and Batipart. This building features 41 studios with shared amenities such as a gym, coworking spaces, and a rooftop terrace. The coliving model is targeted at young professionals, and Urban Campus offers a variety of inclusive services, creating a comfortable and welcoming community for long-term stays.

The Concept of Coliving

The coliving concept aims to add value to rental housing by offering fully furnished, turnkey solutions with quality standards and shared spaces. For investors, coliving provides a stable return similar to residential assets, but with an additional market premium that makes it appealing. The coliving market is still relatively new in Spain and Europe, with various players and different concepts being explored.

Urban Campus plans to expand its presence in Spain by considering projects in Barcelona and Malaga, while also exploring opportunities in other cities like Palma de Mallorca and Bilbao. The profile of colivers is typically young professionals between the ages of 25 and 40, both Spanish and international, who prefer the coliving option for its community-focused living experience.

Overall, coliving it is still a relatively small market compared to traditional residential rentals in Spain and Europe. However, it is seen as a positive development in the real estate industry, offering an improved rental experience and attracting investors due to its stable returns and market appeal. 

Read the full interview here.

Our mission at Urban Campus goes far beyond the creation of coliving spaces. We are intent on building engaged, supportive communities where people can grow together. Urban Campus coliving spaces aren’t only residences, but also hubs of collaboration, networking and ideation for young professionals from all over the world. Our spaces are brimming with digital nomads, freelancers and entrepreneurs eager to embrace each other’s projects and interests. 

Urban Campus Cuatro Caminos, Madrid Coliving opened it’s doors in October 2022 with 150m2 of contemporarily-designed common space. The common spaces include a coworking area, patio, gym, event space, and kitchen. With so much space to enjoy, there is a natural sense of community and connection amongst colivers. The environment at the Cuatro Caminos coliving is close-knit and familial, with many Urban Campus events and organic plans happening every week. Curious to know more about the people living there? Keep reading to meet a few!

Meet Delia – Entrepreneur & Travel Enthusiast

Delia is a hard-working entrepreneur who runs her own SEO Marketing Business. Originally from Spain, she moved into our Cuatro Caminos coliving space right after it’s opening in October 2022. Delia was drawn to Urban Campus because she was looking for a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. Since she is a successful business owner, she wanted to be surrounded by ambitious people with their own goals and passions. She appreciates how among the mixture of business owners, freelancers and corporate workers in Cuatro Caminos, everyone shares a similar determined mindset.

The story of Delia’s entrepreneurial journey is inspiring. After working for many years in corporate marketing, she found herself at a cross-roads during the COVID-19 pandemic. With no job and no clear direction, she couldn’t help but feel pulled to create something of her own. She had always craved the autonomy of an entrepreneurial lifestyle, so she took a leap and started her own Rank&Rent business. Rank&Rent involves creating niche websites, ranking them #1 on google, and then renting them to local business owners. Now in it’s third year, Delia’s business is thriving and she is enjoying her lifestyle as a digital nomad. With all of her expertise, she is preparing to start a mentorship program that will help others achieve the same success and financial freedom through Rank&Rent SEO Marketing.

Beyond SEO Marketing, Delia has an affinity for travel. She has lived in different places all over the world, including 1 year in Switzerland and 2 years in Australia. She particularly loved her experience in Australia, spending time in both Sydney and on an island in the Great Barrier Reef. Being connected to the international community is important to Delia, and Urban Campus has been the perfect place to continue meeting people of all different backgrounds and nationalities.

Meet Pilar – Business Coach & Creative

Pilar grew up in Chile and worked as a psychologist before starting her own business. After many years spent in the psychology field, she ventured to Silicon Valley in the United States to study business, technology, and innovation. She immersed herself in the famously fast-paced work culture, and after progressing in her studies, felt inspired to explore business coaching. She wanted to help businesses improve their daily operations and work culture. This path also presented a unique opportunity for her to synthesize her background in psychology and her studies in innovation. She began coaching in San Francisco and never looked back. Now, she runs her own company coaching businesses and leaders from all over the world.

Pilar came to Madrid last year and was inspired to join Urban Campus so she could meet new people and connect with other business owners. Similar to Delia, she was eager to find a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. Urban Campus provided the collaborative environment Pilar was looking for, which helped spark her latest professional project. She is currently collaborating with another coliver to design a collection of physical intuition journals. These journals are focused on helping individuals navigate personal and business-related topics. Several themes include how to start your own business, navigating teamwork, and improving your personal relationships.

As a successful business owner, Pilar now has flexibility in her daily schedule to invest in her other passions. This includes playing the guitar, singing, and creating music, all things she is excited to spend more time doing. Urban Campus has helped Pilar find meaningful friendship and community, which has simplified her move to Madrid. She reflects that it is fantastic to have community events and common spaces where you easily connect with people, as this creates an authentic sense of home and belonging.

Meet Sofi – Business Owner & Journalist

Sofi is a powerhouse entrepreneur who runs her own Advertising Agency. She grew up in Argentina and has always had a knack for freelancing, spending years gaining experience in copywriting, photography and journalism. She came to Spain in 2019 with a vision to culminate her strengths and launch her own Advertising Agency. By February 2020 she had her first client, and now her business has grown to include clients from all over the world. 

Within her agency, Sofi focuses largely on projects in the areas of human rights and ecology. These subjects are personal interests of hers, and as her own boss, she appreciates the freedom to embrace these passions in her work. Sofi is a lover of anything creative and is always exploring new outlets. One of her favorite projects is a Creative Workbook called “Art & Writing” that she created to help people renew their energy and find creative release. She also expresses herself through poetry, and frequents museums and cultural events to continue learning about the world around her. 

Sofi moved to our Cuatro Caminos coliving in March 2023, where she lives with her partner in a shared apartment. She moved to Madrid after spending 3 years in Barcelona and appreciated how easy the Urban Campus application process was. It was important for Sofi to find other creative people in the city, and Urban Campus became both a home and creative network for her. She now participates in a creative ideation group where colivers meet and give feedback on each other’s professional projects. You can also frequently find her in the Cuatro Caminos gym, where she enjoys doing yoga and centering herself.

Check out her website, LinkedIN and Instagram!

On Saturday, July 8th 2023, À Punt Media featured the opening of our new coliving building in Ayora, Valencia. Community Manager Paz Lucero guided the crew through the building’s brand new common areas, which include a lounge, kitchen, gym, coworking space and rooftop terrace.

They also toured our different private studio options, exploring the amenities that come in our cozy, standard and premium studios. Our newly inaugurated colivers explained why they were drawn to Urban Campus and what they think about the coliving experience. As the first greenfield coliving project in the whole Valencian Community, we were thrilled to showcase our Ayora building and provide more insight on Urban Campus’ mission.