Lifestyle — Home-and-garden

Idea's Expansion in Quebec

In a society growing more divided and confronting challenges such as social isolation and a housing crisis, an increasing number of Americans opt for life within intentional communities – a notion experiencing a resurgence. Our correspondent explores two of these distinctive communities.

, and Administrator

2025 September 15 . 1:05 PM

2 min read

Idea's Expansion in Quebec

In the heart of Quebec City, nestled near Cégep Garneau, lies a unique living space known as Cohabitat Quebec. Established in 2013, this intentional community has grown to accommodate 42 families, each with their own housing, ranging from three-and-a-half to three-story homes.

Cohabitat Quebec operates on the principle of sociocracy, a decision-making process that ensures every voice is heard and all decisions are made by consent. This community, much like others in Quebec, is not based on a shared income model, but rather on the "cohabitat" or "participatory habitat" type, where each family maintains its own living quarters while fostering a strong sense of community life.

One of the residents, Sylvain Gingras-Demers, has been a part of this vibrant community for almost eight years. He shares his home with his 1-year-old son, who has several 'big brothers and sisters' in the community. Sylvain is not alone in his long-term commitment to Cohabitat Quebec; the community is composed equally of children, retirees, and employed adults.

Common spaces within the community include a gym, guest rooms, and a large kitchen where weekly communal meals take place. The building also houses several committees, or circles, for communal meals, land management, communications, and more. Important decisions are made within the superior circle, which also serves as the board of directors for the co-ownership syndicate.

Other intentional communities in Quebec include Cohabitat Neuville and the Le Petit Quartier project in Sherbrooke. As for Montreal, the communal living project called "Rise Up" is expected to welcome its first residents in 2026. This project is part of a growing trend of intentional communities in Montreal, with Village urbain developing a turnkey cohabitat concept, managed by a non-profit organization (OBNL).

It's important to note that the term "intentional community" encompasses various types of community life, unrelated to the communes of the 1960s. These communities are based on shared values, principles, and a commitment to living in harmony with one another.

For those interested in learning more about intentional communities, resources such as the dossier "Coop Le Petit Quartier: Small House for Sale, Community Included" are available for reading. Additionally, the Transition organization is holding a series of virtual meetings with the Network of Established Eco-Communities.

In conclusion, Cohabitat Quebec stands as a testament to the thriving intentional communities in Quebec. Its success serves as an inspiration for those considering a more collaborative and communal way of life.