Page 8 - C.A.L.L. #47 - Winter 2020/2021

group and expertise as a building professional led to personal and interpersonal conflicts,

culminating in her rejection by the group as project architect. Despite this, Allison resolved
to remain involved and, eventually, her position as project coordinator was instrumental to
the success of the eco-neighbourhood.

Cohousing for Life documents one person’s journey towards cohousing, as she negotiates
private life, work and a complex set of relationships. Allison’s story is, in part, the Earthsong
community’s narrative, set within the context of community governance and group decision-
making, community design, sustainable building methods, power and leadership, and financial
and legal
structures.

These
themes are
addressed in
the chapters
and
punctuated
with
personal
history;
alongside
photo
records of

people and
progress on
site,
diagrams and
drawings, The Earthsong eco-neighbourhood cohousing
insight and development in West Auckland.
practical advice
are given regarding the numerous challenges and complexities of a cohousing project.

“The buildings are the picture frame, the people and the life between the buildings are the

picture.” This rings true and is fleshed out throughout the text, and we are invited to ask
questions such as: What role should buildings play in our society? What good are we doing for
the world in our own projects and practice? And might cohousing provide some of these
answers?

Thought-provoking to the end, Cohousing for Life reveals the blood, sweat and tears behind
achieving New Zealand’s first cohousing project. Allison’s continued perseverance in the face
of endless obstacles to realise both her own and Earthsong’s vision reinforces the scale of
this accomplishment. This book is an enjoyable, passionate read that bears witness to
Allison’s rich contribution to educating the public in sustainability and to innovative housing
design in New Zealand.

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