Commons: Rediscovering Communal Life
Communal land, or commons, was once a fundamental aspect of life in England, where the majority of land was shared rather than privately owned. Historically, the notion of land ownership outside of the monarchy was virtually unheard of, with communal spaces serving as vital resources for local communities. Today, however, developments like coliving, cohousing, and community neighbourhoods are often celebrated as innovative new ways of living. Yet, the concept of communal life is as old as humanity itself, deeply rooted in our history and well-documented in a wealth of literature. So, how did we transition from communal existence to privatisation, and why are we now seeking to reverse the detrimental effects of mass land privatisation in favour of re-engaging with communal living?
Communal land was once shared by local farmers to graze their cattle.
Copyright: BBC Radio 4 - In Our Time, The Enclosures of the 18th Century
The Enclosure of Common Land
The Enclosure Movement in England, spanning from the 16th to the 19th centuries, marked a transformative period that reshaped rural landscapes and social structures. This movement privatised common land, which had previously been a shared resource for local communities, primarily composed of farmers. Landowners began to fence off these communal spaces, limiting access for those who relied on them for grazing livestock, gathering firewood, and fulfilling other essential needs.
Painting by Pieter Brueghel - Village Festival, 1623
Proponents of Enclosure argued that privatising land would prevent overuse by farmers with larger herds, thereby protecting resources. However, this perspective overlooked the rich social life that flourished in communal settings. Before the Enclosure Acts, communal land-use fostered vibrant cultural events and social practices—such as harvest festivals, May Day celebrations, and traditional dances—that strengthened community ties and cultural identity among rural populations.
As a result of Enclosure, the economic independence of rural communities declined, and social dynamics shifted dramatically. Traditional communal practices gave way to individual land ownership, fragmenting land and creating social divisions. This transformation weakened community bonds and led to feelings of isolation among those who once shared resources, fundamentally altering the nature of rural life and community identity. Today, much of our land remains privatised, reinforcing barriers that communal living seeks to bridge. The deeply ingrained belief that "An Englishman's home is his castle" reflects this legacy. Yet, if young people find themselves unable to secure their own "cattle" until their mid-30s, what kind of life are they leading in the meantime?
Embracing Community Living: The Power of Shared Spaces
In an increasingly individualistic world, the concept of communal living is gaining traction as people seek to foster connections, share resources, and create a sense of belonging. Communal spaces—whether kitchens, gardens, or lounges—serve as the heart of community living, bringing people together, facilitating the exchange of ideas, and breaking down barriers.
As a counterpoint to the 16th-century arguments for privatization, we explore how shared spaces can be reintroduced into our lives for the greater good.
What Are ‘Communal Spaces’ in Today's Residential Setting?
Communal spaces are designed to encourage interaction and collaboration among residents. They are places where neighbours can gather, share meals, and engage in meaningful conversations. These interactions can lead to the exchange of ideas, cultural understanding, and the formation of friendships that transcend differences. In essence, communal spaces are the glue that holds a community together.
Marmalade Lane in Cambridge is a great example of a community that has come together and is flourishing.
Copyright: Cambridge Cohousing Limited 2025
Breaking Down the Barriers
One of the most significant benefits of communal living is its ability to break down barriers. In a world where many feel isolated, shared spaces provide opportunities for connection, challenging the notion that we must retreat into our private lives. However, misconceptions and fears about communal living persist. There are worries about losing personal space and privacy, fearing the chaos of shared environments or potential conflicts. These concerns are valid and stem from a deep-seated belief in the importance of personal territory.
Privacy vs. Communal Engagement
"I’ll end up losing my personal space and privacy. I won’t be able to just get myself a cup of tea and disappear."
Many communal living arrangements are designed with private rooms or apartments that allow residents to retreat to their own space when needed. This balance between shared and private areas helps maintain personal privacy. The most effective communal spaces accommodate different levels of interaction, allowing residents to choose when and how much they engage with others. Simple design elements, like a couple of chairs and a small table in a corridor, can signal a desire for connection, while quiet corners in gardens can offer peaceful retreats.
Conflict and Disagreements
"I hate conflict, but there will inevitably be disagreements in a shared environment."
Establishing open lines of communication among residents can help address issues before they escalate. Projects like Marmalade Lane in Cambridge have committees in place from the outset to manage potential conflicts, with regular meetings and check-ins. This proactive approach provides a platform for discussing concerns and resolving conflicts constructively. Implementing conflict resolution strategies, such as mediation or designated community facilitators can help residents navigate disagreements in a constructive manner.
Shared Responsibilities
"There will be a real mix of people—some of whom will share responsibilities and others who will, no doubt, be lazy and not pull their weight. How will that work?"
To ensure that everyone has an opportunity to contribute to communal responsibilities, implementing a clear and fair system, such as chore charts or rotating schedules, can be effective. These tools help ensure that all residents participate equally and feel valued. Additionally, creating a community agreement that outlines expectations for shared spaces and responsibilities can help residents understand their roles and reduce feelings of resentment.
Social Anxiety
"I am quite an outgoing person, but my partner is quite an introvert and doesn’t really like big social situations. How is this experience going to work for both of us?"
While communal living involves sharing spaces and resources, it also offers opportunities for a range of social activities. There are chances for larger gatherings, such as communal meals or movie nights, but also optional activities that allow residents to engage at their own comfort level. Organising smaller gatherings or interest-based groups can create a more comfortable environment for individuals who may find large social settings overwhelming. For instance, at Marmalade Lane, learning workshops are naturally limited by the space, allowing for more intimate interactions. Additionally, smaller amenities, like a compact gym, ensure that only a few people can use them at a time, promoting a sense of comfort and privacy.
At Marmalade Lane you can be as sociable as you like. The design of the spaces allows for large group activities or smaller, quieter spaces for getting away from the hustle and bustle.
Copyright: wearetown.co.uk (All Illustrations © Lisa Holdcroft www.lisaholdcroft.com)
Conclusion
It’s fascinating to observe that we seem to be coming full circle: common land that was once privatised for monetary gain is now being reimagined for larger communities once again. The need for connection and sharing has resurfaced as people recognise the benefits of fostering community ties.
While communal living offers numerous advantages—such as community support, shared resources, and enhanced social connections—barriers and reservations can make it a challenging choice for many. However, with thoughtful design and careful planning of social spaces, many of these concerns can be addressed.
Creating opportunities for open communication, establishing clear agreements, and fostering a culture of respect and understanding can help mitigate fears and encourage more people to embrace the communal living experience. By offering a variety of ways to interact, individuals can come together in their own way, benefitting from the nurturing and supportive community they have the chance to be part of.