Tag: lifestyle-articles

  • Is Bicester a Nice Place to Live? An Honest 2026 Guide from People Who Live Here

    Is Bicester a Nice Place to Live? An Honest 2026 Guide from People Who Live Here

    Is Bicester a Nice Place to Live? A 2026 Guide to Commuting, Lifestyle & Costs

    Yes, for many people, Bicester is one of the best places to live in Oxfordshire if you want more space, easier access to nature, and lower living costs without feeling disconnected from London or Oxford.

    It is especially well-suited to professionals commuting a few days a week, people working in Oxfordshire’s science and motorsport sectors, remote workers looking for a calmer pace of life, and anyone who enjoys the balance between convenience and community. Bicester combines fast rail links, strong amenities, countryside access, and a surprisingly international atmosphere for a market town.

    That said, Bicester may not be the right fit if you want the intensity of a major city, late-night culture every evening, or entirely car-free living. It is growing quickly, and some areas feel more suburban than historic. But for many residents, that trade-off is exactly what makes it appealing.

    At B-Hive Living, we run coliving houses across Oxfordshire and speak to people relocating here every week. This guide answers the questions people most often ask before moving to Bicester in 2026.

    You might also find these useful:


    Where is Bicester and why are so many people moving there?

    Bicester is a fast-growing market town in north Oxfordshire, around:

    • 20 minutes from Oxford

    • Under one hour from London by train

    • Around one hour from Birmingham

    • Close to Milton Keynes, Banbury, and the Cotswolds

    Its location is one of the main reasons demand has grown so quickly over the last few years. Many residents now split their week between remote work and commuting into London or Oxford.

    The town has also seen major investment and expansion, including:

    • Continued development around Bicester Village station

    • New residential neighbourhoods and infrastructure

    • Growth in nearby science, health tech, and motorsport industries

    • Ongoing investment connected to East West Rail and Oxfordshire transport upgrades

    Bicester increasingly appeals to people who want access to opportunity without the pace or cost of London.

    What is the commute like from Bicester?

    Commuting is one of Bicester’s strongest advantages.

    The town has two stations:

    Typical journey times:

    • London Marylebone: around 50 minutes

    • Oxford: around 15–20 minutes

    • Birmingham: around 1 hour

    For drivers, the M40 provides easy access towards London and Birmingham, while the A34 connects conveniently to Oxford and the south.

    In 2026, Bicester continues to benefit from wider rail and infrastructure improvements happening across Oxfordshire, reinforcing its role as a strategic commuter hub rather than simply a small market town.

    Is Bicester cheaper than London or Oxford?

    Yes — significantly.

    Compared with London, renting and buying property in Bicester remains far more affordable, while still offering strong transport links and good amenities.

    This is one reason Bicester has become popular with:

    • Young professionals

    • Couples relocating from London

    • International workers

    • People working in Oxfordshire’s science and technology sectors

    Many residents find they can afford:

    • More space

    • Newer housing

    • Outdoor areas

    • Better work-life balance

    …without sacrificing access to major cities.

    If you are relocating for work or looking for a flexible setup, shared living is also increasingly popular in the area. You can explore our guide to Rooms to Rent in Bicester for Professionals.

    What is the lifestyle actually like in Bicester?

    Bicester feels calmer than a city, but more connected and international than many towns of a similar size.

    You will find:

    • Independent cafés and restaurants

    • A walkable town centre

    • Green spaces and cycling routes

    • Luxury shopping at Bicester Village

    • Easy countryside access

    • A growing professional community

    The atmosphere is often described as a balance between “slow living” and convenience.

    One of the nicest parts of living here is that daily life tends to feel easier. Shorter commutes, less congestion, and proximity to nature all make a noticeable difference to quality of life.

    For many people moving from London, Bicester offers more breathing room without feeling isolated.

    Brunch Spots in Oxford

    What are the best cafés and restaurants in Bicester?

    Bicester has a surprisingly strong independent café scene for its size.

    FILTR

    Website

    https://www.filtrcoffee.co.uk/

    Known for excellent coffee and a relaxed atmosphere popular with remote workers and locals alike.

    Torino Lounge

    Website

    https://thelounges.co.uk/torino/

    A reliable all-day café-bar with outdoor seating ideal for people watching in town.

    Stansfield & Hoole

    Website

    https://stansfieldandhoole.co.uk/

    A cosy café space with quality brunches, artisan coffee, and a more independent feel.

    The Milk Shed

    Website

    https://www.themilkshedbicester.co.uk/

    Popular for brunches, coffee, and ice cream.

    Cabbages & Condoms

    Website

    https://www.cabbagesandcondoms.co.uk/

    One of Bicester’s most recognisable restaurants, originally inspired by the well-known Thai brand promoting sexual health awareness.

    FAQ Bar

    Website

    https://www.thefaqbar.co.uk/

    A relaxed cocktail spot for evenings out.

    The town centre still retains much of its historic character, with independent businesses mixed between older stone buildings and traditional market streets.

    5 Tips Before Moving to Bicester & Oxford

    Is there much to do in Bicester?

    Yes, especially if you enjoy shopping, cars, countryside, and day trips.

    Bicester Village

    Website

    https://www.thebicestercollection.com/bicester-village/en

    Bicester Village is one of the UK’s best-known luxury shopping destinations, attracting millions of visitors every year.

    Alongside designer shopping, it also offers:

    • Restaurants and cafés

    • Seasonal events

    • Pop-up experiences

    • Easy rail access directly from London

    If you plan to visit regularly, read our guide to Bicester Village Shopping Tips.

    Bicester Heritage

    Website

    https://bicesterheritage.co.uk/

    Bicester Heritage has become a major destination for classic motoring enthusiasts.

    The site hosts:

    • Vintage car events

    • Open days

    • Restoration specialists

    • Automotive businesses

    It is also part of the wider “Motorsport Valley” ecosystem across Oxfordshire and Northamptonshire.

    Countryside & Day Trips

    Living in Bicester also places you close to:

    Weekend trips are one of the biggest lifestyle benefits of the area.

    5 Tips Before Moving to Bicester & Oxford

    Who lives in Bicester?

    Bicester has become increasingly diverse over the last decade.

    You will find:

    • Oxford commuters

    • London hybrid workers

    • International professionals

    • Motorsport and engineering employees

    • Young families

    • Remote workers

    • NHS and science-sector professionals

    The town also has a growing coliving and flexible-living community, particularly among professionals relocating to the UK or moving between cities.

    At B-Hive Living, many of our residents choose Bicester because they want both connection and independence — somewhere calmer than London but still socially active and well connected.

    HMO Investment

    Is Bicester good for work and career opportunities?

    Bicester benefits from being close to several major employment hubs:

    • Oxford science and biotech

    • Motorsport Valley

    • Advanced engineering

    • Health technology

    • Logistics and retail

    • Education and research

    The area continues to attract investment in innovation and infrastructure.

    Recent growth linked to companies such as Siemens Healthineers and the wider Oxford-Cambridge corridor has strengthened the region’s reputation as one of the UK’s fastest-growing knowledge economies.

    For people working hybrid or remote jobs, Bicester increasingly offers the lifestyle flexibility many professionals now prioritise.

    Electric delivery truck with driver holding a box of vegetables

    Can you eat well and shop locally in Bicester?

    Absolutely.

    One of the underrated benefits of living in Bicester is access to high-quality local food and organic produce.

    Riverford Organic Farmers

    Website

    https://www.riverford.co.uk/

    Riverford delivers organic vegetable boxes directly to homes across Oxfordshire and is a popular option among residents looking to eat healthier without overcomplicating shopping.

    You can also explore local farm shops, breweries, bakeries, and independent food producers around Oxfordshire for a more authentic local food experience.

    Fire pit with seats around in a garden, with a HIve at the back

    Is Bicester a good place to live overall?

    For the right person, yes.

    Bicester works particularly well if you value:

    • Fast access to London and Oxford

    • Better affordability

    • Cleaner, calmer surroundings

    • A healthier pace of life

    • Community feel without losing convenience

    • Access to countryside and nature

    • Flexible modern living

    It may not suit people looking for constant nightlife or a fully urban lifestyle, but for many professionals and international residents, it hits a rare balance that is increasingly difficult to find elsewhere in the South East.

    If you are considering relocating, you might also enjoy:

     

    B-Hive Living
    B-Hive Living is a wellness-focused coliving brand with several properties in Bicester and Oxford. We believe in building nourishing shared living environments that foster connection and elevate lifestyle and wellness of residents. We drive social change by exploring and promoting the concept of living well and placing it at the heart of our coliving design.
  • 10 amazing ways coliving will make your life better

    10 amazing ways coliving will make your life better

    Coliving has been enjoying increasing popularity among digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and other professionals for a reason. It’s more than a living arrangement. It’s a vibrant social lifestyle that taps into the need of freedom, sense of belonging, and more. It can truly be a life-changing experience. If you wonder if coliving is right for you, here are its greatest benefits to consider.

    1. Coliving for a simpler, stress-free life

    Renting no longer has to be a stressful experience. Forget the anxiety associated with sharing bills, looking for roommates, and arguments over cleaning the kitchen. Now you can apply through an easy form, move into a ready-made community, make one payment a month for rent covering all house services, and spend more time on the things you love. Whether you’re looking for a short-term arrangement or a home for longer, coliving is flexible enough to cater to all your needs.

    2. With coliving you will live better for less

    Coliving can save you money! Living alone has been increasingly unaffordable, especially for young adults. With all the perks included in your monthly rent, coliving has been found to generate savings of up to 40% compared to renting a traditional studio apartment. At B-Hive Living there will be no security deposits or broker fees. The home will be fully equipped, including guaranteed business-grade wifi. The mission of B-Hive Living is also making sure you truly live well. Read more about how we make it happen in our Hives.

    “Having all costs in one simple monthly bill avoids any unexpected surprise at the end of each month and provides great value for money.” – Alice, Project Manager from UK

    3. You will find your place in the world

    With coliving you can fully embrace your digital nomad lifestyle. Whether you’re a planet-roaming remote worker, or wish to see the world and find a place to call home, coliving offers an incredible opportunity to find fulfilment. From exploring the Oxford pub scene to surfing on the beaches of Lisbon – coliving is a perfect choice for landing pad on moving to a new place. A like-minded international community will be ready to hang out and make you feel at home anywhere you go.

    “Landing into a friendly international community with everything you can possibly need has provided me with the perfect start for life in a new country.” – Matyas, Motorsport Engineer from Hungary

    4. You will belong to an exciting diverse coliving community

    Loneliness is a hurdle experienced by too many people in the modern world. It’s especially difficult to make connections when you travel or move to a new place. Coliving homes are designed to encourage socialising, collaboration, and bonding, as well as privacy whenever you need it. You can be sure the community you live with shares you intentions, values, and interests while coming from various backgrounds and cultures so you can benefit from each other’s differences. It is not limited to any age group, and the vetting process discriminates against no one due to race, colour, age, religion or belief, ethnic or national origin, sexual orientation or gender. A coliving home is a safe place.

    “I really felt I had a lot in common with my Hive mates from day one and we spontaneously gelled as a strong community straightaway.” – Iva, Senior Sales Manager from the Czech Republic

    5. You will make friends for life

    A coliving community is where you can share experiences and ask for help. You will enjoy authentic connections and make homemade memories. Depending on the demographic makeup of the home, residents are likely to be going through similar life struggles or successes as you. You will be able to support others and be supported on a daily basis. Many residents form friendships that outlast and exceed the coliving rental experience. It can be the beginning of a shared lifetime adventure.

    “My housemates quickly became like my second family. I was always warmly supported and had a great time together with them before and during the lockdowns.” – Eirini, Translator from Greece

    6. Coliving provides for a better social life

    Life at coliving offers a lot of opportunities for residents to socialise and interact with each other in and outside of the home. B-Hive Living provides you not only with an outgoing environment, but also a monthly calendar of social and wellness events that you can attend for free. Residents often organise dinners, movie nights, and excursions in their own scope, and you can be part of all that.

    “During the Hive Monthly Socials I had the chance to connect, meet and be inspired by such a great network of people even beyond my Hive.” – Francois, Finance Manager from South Africa

    7. You will enjoy better holistic wellbeing

    Coliving works wonders for your mental health through keeping loneliness at bay and constant peer support. Residents also typically follow a healthy lifestyle, offering inspiration for more self-care. On top of that, B-Hive Living takes pride in elevating your lifestyle and wellness through home design aimed at creating a holistically nourishing environment. We believe a home should be more than just a roof over your head. In the Hives, your daily wellbeing is supported by the biophilic design of the interiors, strict community vetting process, and lifestyle advice from a dedicated wellness expert team.

    “As life coach for B-Hive Living and beyond, I have the passion for building empowering, collaborative, positive communities.” – Steve Rodd, Life Coach at B-Hive Living

    8. Coliving will empower you

    While being all about community, coliving also supports individuality. It’s about sharing rather than consumption, and collaboration rather than competition. It attracts a certain type of personality: curious, open, and ready for change. The residents are hardworking professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives, and artists who all seek an environment where they can be empowered and inspired. Benefits from being part of it are instant and can be mind-blowing. At B-Hive Living, that effect is strengthened by consultations with a dedicated life coach!

    “The number one thing for me is being part of an international community of awesome people with a positive outlook on life. It’s priceless!” – Giana, Burberry associate from Taiwan

    9. You will develop a mindset of productivity

    While the coliving concept is largely based on play, the homes are also set up for getting things done. With conditions for individual work as well as coworking spaces, you will share the passion for entrepreneurship, freelancing, creating new businesses, and pursuing dreams with other professionals. There is always a vast range of skills that can be traded among residents. You can be sure to find talented people to learn from – and to share your ideas with. Meeting inspiring people and forming potential partnerships can be an enriching professional experience.

    10. You will learn to live sustainably and care for the environment

    Inspired by the sharing economy, coliving encourages a sustainable lifestyle by making it easy to share resources. House rules help residents get the most out of their experience by bringing a sense of order and clarity. It will make you appreciate the values of sharing and being more environmentally friendly. Coliving is also a perfect way to live light: you can bring just the essentials to your new bedroom, saving your money for what really matters. Fans of the minimalist lifestyle find that coliving suits their needs perfectly.

    Bottom line: you will nourish a more fulfilling lifestyle

    Having the coliving experience will leave its long-lasting trace. Once you verify your expectations for daily lifestyle, you will keep seeking it in the future. Did you know 80% of your general health outcomes results from housing choices? Coliving with all its benefits is a trigger that will help you imagine your future home full of light and greenery, with amazing people around, and your future self smiling and fulfilled every day. That’s what it means to truly live well.

     

    Don’t miss out on the opportunity to live your best life, apply today!

     

    Find your new home

     

    Catch up on more coliving news from B-Hive Living on our Medium channel.

     

    B-Hive Living
    B-Hive Living is a multi-award winning coliving brand, operator and asset manager of coliving properties with a strong track record of best-in-class design, investment and management practices. Our mission is to empower professional renters to lead a more connected, healthy and fulfilling lifestyle through co-living. This relentless focus on our residents’ well-being ensures a sustained demand wherever we operate.
  • How to start your day for optimal productivity

    How to start your day for optimal productivity

    Living well involves getting up on the right foot in the morning for a productive and fulfilling day. The secret is to make sure you arrange a moment for self care first thing in the morning, and follow these four game-changing rules of starting your day for optimal productivity.

    1. Water

    water bottle icon

    The first step to a good day is proper hydration. Like the Earth’s surface, 60% of the human body is water, so it’s key to our optimal performance. However, most of us tend to start the day dehydrated from the lack of water from the night before. Here is a tip for getting your fluids right before hitting the road.

    The famous morning mineral cocktail:
    350ml filtered water
    3g sea salt
    ¼ lemon, squeezed

    Power hack: Choose Pink Himalayan salt! It’s the most mineral-rich form of salt. It comes from ancient oceanic deposits rich in iron, hence its pink hue.

    2. Priorities

    scale icon

    Success comes down to a few things we do well rather than everything we do. Here is a million-dollar question that will help you live by priority and achieve extraordinary results:

    What’s the one thing I can do to make everything else easier or unnecessary?

    Power hack: For an even greater impact across your life, add a category and timeframe before the question. For instance, for my health this week, what’s the one thing I can do to ensure I eat well?

    Based on the work of Gary Keller www.the1thing.com

    3. Sleep

    sleep icon

    Outside nutrition, sleep is the single most important ingredient of optimal productivity. If you get your sleep right, you can get more done with less stress. Luckily for us busy bees, sleeping well does not necessarily mean getting all the sleep in one go, and here is a tip on how you can hack your sleep for maximum impact.

    A typical sleep cycle lasts 90 minutes. Focus on achieving 35 sleep cycles per week which is more manageable than counting sleeping hours. In theory, you should need 4-5 sleep cycles per day.

    Power hack: Your 35 sleep cycles don’t need to happen all at night. If you sleep six hours per night and introduce a 30 min power nap every day, you can still achieve your 35 hours goal.

    4. Exercise

    exercise icon

    Add a few minutes of light exercise in the morning to boost your productivity. Light exercise improves circulation, cognitive performance, and releases endorphins that make you more alert. All of this sends vital cues to your body that it’s time to wake up and get going. Here it’s how we hack your morning routine for optimal productivity.

    Aim for 1-3 minutes of light and slow exercise. It can be light yoga, push-ups, air squats, and our suggestion – burpees. The key is to simply elevate your heart rate and get your muscles working.

    Power hack: Many leading entrepreneurs such as Tony Robbins use a mini trampoline called Rebouder to jump start their biology before a productive day. Bouncing helps build your coordination and balance.

    How about a good book at the end of the day to build a strong mindset and sustainable wellbeing? We put together a few titles for you here.

    Our wellness tips are intended to supplement rather than replace advice from a qualified health care professional. It’s always recommended that you consult a qualified health care professional before embarking on any treatment or training.
    B-Hive Living disclaim liability over any medical outcomes that may occur as a result of applying any treatment or advice suggested in this note.

    B-Hive Living
    At B-Hive Living, we believe that living well starts at home. We deliver community activities and content to our residents around  the four pillars of living well. We strive to help you boost your resilience and beat home fatigue the strange and isolating times on the pandemic.
  • What makes B-Hive Living remarkable? – interview with Ben

    What makes B-Hive Living remarkable? – interview with Ben

    Our Hivers are an eclectic bunch of awesome individuals from all walks of life and corners of the globe. They are open-minded professionals, entrepreneurs and digital nomads who share a lust for living well. To give you a little more insight on who your actual potential coliving flatmates are, we interviewed one of our residents – Ben.

    Hello, my name is Ben and I am originally from Derby in the Midlands – UK. When I was 19 y.o. I joined the royal air force for 6 years and I was deployed on different missions including Afghanistan and the Folkland Islands where I was in charge of delivering aviation fuel to the front line aircrafts. After returning to the UK I worked in logistics and then had a career change into construction management. I am currently project leader overseeing the construction on a military base in Oxfordshire. Health, nutrition and fitness are my biggest passions.

    Have you lived in shared living spaces before? What made you choose coliving and our Hives as your home?

    Before joining B-Hive Living I lived in different shared accommodations but the experience was not the same. This is because I didn’t find a community I belonged to. My coliving flatmates were simply not on the same page in life. Joining the Hive has been very refreshing. I feel a sense of belonging to the community here, my coliving flatmates are friendly, sociable and we all share a positive attitude to life. As soon as I entered the Hive I knew it was for me. The space was immaculate, and that for me is paramount to live a positive lifestyle.

    How would you describe coliving as opposed to other types of accommodation you previously experienced?

    The curated community of coliving flatmates is what makes coliving – or at least B-Hive Living – a different experience compared to other shared accomodations. The space itself is impeccable, modern, completely designed around the need of shared living, the facilities are fantastic and the team is always available in case any issue arises or help is needed. But the community, the support network you find in coliving flatmates is what makes it different.

    What is your favourite part of the Hive and why?

    Beyond our outdoor gym, my favourite part of the Hive is definitely the fire pit area in the garden. We enjoyed it a lot especially during the long summer nights, with music, some drinks and my fellow Hivers. You completely feel transported to a holiday place, just sitting there and looking at the sky, feeling the warmth and magic of the fire makes me feel on holiday and help me disconnect and relax.

    Talking about healthy living, veganism is one of your big passions. Tell us how you started.

    I am passionate about veganism, and for me this is very much linked to animal welfare. I simply do not want to contribute to any animal cruelty. About 3 years ago, some of my family members were vegan and I started to become used to having a vegan meal when going out with them. At the time I was also working near a dairy farm and I saw something that made me feel very uncomfortable. It was a trigger point, the moment when I decided I would become vegan.

    I am at the gym every day and before becoming vegan my diet consisted of meat every day. It was a drastic change but I don’t miss it at all, my motivation is stronger than any desire. And it is encouraging to see more and more restaurants offering vegan options. I went to the Ivy in London last weekend and I was impressed with their full vegan menu.

    What are some of the benefits in following a vegan diet? What are some of your top tips for someone wanting to become vegan?

    When I become vegan my energy level went through the roof, I was waking up at 5 AM every day, full of energy, rarely feeling tired or sick. I think a vegan diet has a massive effect on your immune system.My change was drastic but for some people it might start by limiting meat days. There are so many meat replacement products available in the market (plant-based steaks, sausages, burgers or even bacon) or alternative such as falafel or tofu. My suggestion would be:

    • Go plant based for 3 days a week and check your energy level and if you feel any different.
    • Keep a record. Give yourself a rate (from 1 to 10) for the day. Then compare meat days versus vegan days. If you have a smart watch it can also help you keep track of your physical condition.
    • Vegan food can be tasty.  My top dishes are vegan pizza (with vegan cheese or vegan sausages) during the weekend and stir fry during the week. You can mix it with some rice, different grains, all sort of vegetables, tofu, meat replacement products, anything just experiment. For breakfast I tend to start the day with oat mixed with protein powders… my “gym meal”.

    Talking about fitness, what are your top recommendations for simple home exercises to boost our fitness every day?

    High-intensity interval training (or HIIT), is a great way to build your fitness level in a short period of time.  With HIIT you can alternate short periods of intense anaerobic exercise (pushups, star jumps, burpees) with less intense recovery periods, until too exhausted to continue. 20 minutes are enough to start building good stamina and strength.

    You exercise for 45 seconds then rest for 15 seconds. Start with 3 exercises and repeat them for 15/20 minutes. Aim to add one additional exercise every week.

    Running helps increase your fitness level but it’s not for everyone, especially if you have any injuries or knee problems. What I like of interval trainings is that you can exercise as much as running in a similar amount of time. (15 min run = 25 min HIIT), plus you get a lot of transferrable skills that you can use in other activities, like gardening for example.

    What’s the most unexpected thing you discovered about yourself or coliving being in a Hive?

    Good question….well I have to admit I realised I am quite a neat freak. I think this comes from my years in the army. The first job of the day in military is to make your own bed and make it well. It starts the day off right. It might be a small accomplishment, but making the bed sets the tone for the entire day. I also love to decorate my room with plants, I think this is a very simple but smart way to boost your happiness and health levels indoor.

    Would you recommend B-Hive Living to a friend? Why?

    Definitely! I have no doubt you will find an amazing community here and a sophisticated but functional environment you can call home.

    B-Hive Living logo
    B-Hive Living is a coliving brand redefining the concept of living well for a more connected, healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.

  • How coliving gave me a sense of belonging – interview with Fania

    How coliving gave me a sense of belonging – interview with Fania

    Our Hivers are an eclectic bunch of awesome individuals from all walks of life and corners of the globe. They are open-minded professionals, entrepreneurs and digital nomads who share a lust for living well and together they create a common sense of belonging. To give you a little more insight on who your actual potential coliving flatmates are, we interviewed one of our residents – Fania.

    Hello, my name is Fania, I am 25 y.o. and I am African-Japanese from Birmingham. My dad is from the Republic of Togo in Africa and my mum is half Togolese and half Japanese. I was born in Sweden, I lived in Japan between the age of 2 and 5, and then moved to France where I spent my childhood until the age of 10 when my family moved to the UK. French is my first language but I also speak English and Japanese. I moved to the Hive in May this year when I started to work as a trainee business manager for Boots No.7 while growing my own clothing label  Svciety. Fashion is literally my passion and I live and breathe it. I also love anything related to beauty and art. If you see me sketching with pen and paper you know I am in my zone.

    How would you describe coliving as opposed to other types of accommodation you previously experienced?

    Every day I work long hours between my trainee job and building my fashion brand and it’s really hard to find time to go out and meet new people. I find coliving and B-Hive Living specifically a great solution for people moving to a new area given the ability to meet many new people straight away and they become friends and your family away from home. The community at B-Hive is really well curated and people are able to connect very easily. I do not think you can experience the same level of social connection in other types of accommodation. Beyond the people who live in my Hive, I also have the opportunity to connect with the broader Hive Community thanks to our monthly calendar of events. This makes it easy to feel a sense of belonging and connection despite being in a completely new place.

    What is your favourite part of your Hive home and why?

    As soon as I walked in the Hive I fell in love with the space. Creativity is a big part of my life and I could immediately breath it when I walked in. Everything excites me in the space and you can tell from the colour schemes used to the use of natural materials, plants and lighting that the space was designed with the intention of enhancing people’s wellbeing and sense of belonging.

    Talking about your passion for fashion, when did you start? What excites you most in fashion?

    My mum worked as a tailor and as a little girl I grew up learning this beautiful craft from her. I recall always trying to get hold of leftover pieces of fabric to design clothes for my dolls. From there came my desire to launch a label as I wanted to wear my own stuff.

    When I was 13, I started to play online games that helped design products and style different online characters. That’s how I practiced and developed my skills. My parents didn’t allow me to study fashion, so I studied business instead and launched Svciety in 2016 in partnership with my brother Fareed Toure. Svciety is a a streetwear label developing clothes for everyone, unisex, no age, no gender, for all members of society.

    I am the lead designer and often traveled to New York fashion week, as well as London and Paris to get inspiration and often found myself thinking: ”One day soon we will be here”. We have had great success with Svciety pop up stores in Birmingham and London and people loved the brand. 2020 was supposed to be a big year for us with plans for game-changing shows in Berlin, Milan and Paris and upcoming collaborations with artists such as PsychoYP and Pa Salieu. Unfortunately, some of our plans have had to be put on hold by this pandemic, but at the same time we invested a lot of energy in stepping up our online retail and we’re excited about our future prospects.

    What’s the most unexpected thing you discovered about yourself or coliving being in the Hive?

    I have always been a quiet and reserved person, sometimes lacking a bit of confidence to socialise and normally arriving at home and preferring the comfort of my own room. But since living at the Hive I’ve noticed a big change in my personality. I realise that I’ve become more eager to socialise with other residents for hours, sitting in the garden, enjoying a meal or doing activities with them. Thanks to this experience I’m glad that I feel much more opened and willing to connect with others. I’ve found my sense of belonging in this community. And that’s a great feeling for me!

    Would you recommend B-Hive Living to a friend? Why?

    Absolutely! I am pretty sure that if any of my creative friends would walk through the door, they would immediately love the cool vibe and energy of this space.

    B-Hive Living logo
    B-Hive Living is a coliving brand redefining the concept of living well for a more connected, healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.
  • How a diverse community makes coliving special – interview with Gina

    How a diverse community makes coliving special – interview with Gina

    Our Hivers are an eclectic bunch of awesome individuals from all walks of life and corners of the globe. They are a diverse community of open-minded professionals, entrepreneurs and digital nomads who share a lust for living well. To give you a little more insight on who your actual potential coliving flatmates are, we interviewed one of our residents – Gina.

    Hello! My name is Gina and I come from Taiwan, a small island in Pacific Ocean near China and Japan. We are famous of our juicy fruits and wonderful iconic Taiwanese food. Born in a country with lots of great food, I’m no doubt a food lover. Beyond great food the other thing I can’t live without is Music. I listen to different kind of music: pop, R&B, hip hop, EDM, jazz. One of the reasons why I decided to move to the UK is the ability to easily fly to big music festival events such as “Tomorrowland” in Belgium and Ibiza. I love exercise, too (so that I can be ready for my next meal!.) Since I moved to the UK I tried so many new different activities like spinning, CrossFit, Barry’s bootcamp, F45 and weight lifting.

    To me, the world is like a big amusement park waiting to be explored. That’s why life gets interesting, funny and sometimes scary! You never know what will happen next. Maybe I will find myself learning Greek and living on a Greek island for a month soon!

    Have you lived in a shared living space before? What made you choose coliving/our Hives as your home?

    In the past I lived in a shared space with other three girls, but we didn’t have many common areas to share. And due to different working time, we hardly saw each other every day. The reason why I chose coliving is the chance to know people from different countries and learn different cultures. Even the food!

    How would you describe coliving as opposed to other types of accommodation you previously experienced?

    Coliving is much more fun and you can build more connections. What makes coliving great is not just the space but the diverse community of people and the social connections you can build with them. It’s what you can call social capital!

    What is your favourite part of your Hive home and why?

    No doubt on that : my brilliant housemates. They are the nicest people I met since I moved to the UK.

    In your Hive space you are more…

    • Coffee or Tea?  Neither, Wine or Hot Chocolate
    • Quiet housemate or social animal? I should be a social animal but I am still working on my English
    • More at your room or a particular common area? More at my room or cooking in the kitchen.

    How would describe your “Hivemates”? What difference did they make to your life?

    They are AWESOME. I have the chance to share their cultures, their different professional backgrounds and experiences and I hope in one year they will make a big difference on my English accent and make it even more British.

    What’s the most unexpected thing you discovered about yourself or coliving being in a Hive?

    In my Hive we have weekly dinners with all the Residents each Tuesday. I never thought I could cook for more than a few people but I’m very glad that I made it and they all enjoyed some Taiwanese food such as braised pork rice, stinky tofu, beef noodles and oyster omelette.

    Would you recommend B-Hive Living to a friend? Why?

    Yes, for sure. If you would like to meet people from other countries and live in a vibrant international English-speaking community – the Hives are really the best place to stay. You have flexibility in your contract, all bills inclusive and a truly great diverse community that will enrich your experience.

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    B-Hive Living is a coliving brand redefining the concept of living well for a more connected, healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.
  • A Guide to Motorsport Valley’s most inspirational experiences

    A Guide to Motorsport Valley’s most inspirational experiences

    Welcome to the biggest hub of motor racing in the world: the Motorsport Valley. Also known as Silicon Fen, Motorsport Valley® refers to the cluster of firms based around Oxfordshire and the Midlands involved in supplying cutting-edge technology to Formula One, Formula E and many other motorsport sectors. They dominate the design and manufacture of components used in the majority of the world’s racing categories today.

    The valley is also home to some of the world’s biggest and most recognised racing teams. It’s within the geography of this valley that science and technology take the forefront in pioneering the next big innovations in motorsports. The UK has won more Formula One titles than any other nation in history!

    Itching for a taste of what the Motorsport Valley has to offer? Don’t worry, we got you covered! Here is a list of key unmissable motorsport experiences and events in the area and the UK.

    1. Goodwood Members Meeting


    Goodwood Motor Circuit, ~ Early-April

    A weekend of thrilling racing and demonstrations from the finest historic and modern cars accompanied by a tremendous outdoor party with live music, stunning fireworks and a buzzing food market. More info here.

    2. Formula 1 British GP

    Silverstone, ~ Mid-July

    Silverstone plays hosts every year to a race that’s the apex of all motorsports: Formula 1. The weekend also sees itself hosting the Formula 2 & Formula 3 races. More info here.

    3. Hagerty’s Festival of the Unexceptional

    Buckinghamshire, ~Mid-July

    Hagerty’s Festival of the Unexceptional celebrates the cars that were the workhorses of their day: the base model saloons, hatchbacks and estates that were sold in their millions between roughly 1968 and 1989, and are now so rare. More Info.

    4. Silverstone Classic 

    Silverstone, ~Late-July

    The weekend provides spectacular historic motor racing, free access to the paddocks and grandstands, displays from over 100 car clubs featuring more than 10,000 classic cars, plus interactive driving activities and dynamic demonstrations. More Info

    5. MotoGP British Grand Prix 

    Silverstone, ~Late August

    Silverstone will play hosts to the British round of the MotoGP world championship in what promises to be an incredible 2019 season. The MotoGP race at Silverstone will be the pinnacle of two-wheel racing in the UK in 2019. More Info

    6. FIA World Endurance Championship 

    Silverstone, Dates vary every year

    The 4 Hours of Silverstone is a great opportunity to witness the Spirit of Le Mans in the United Kingdom. Expect more cars, more racing, famous drivers and lots to see and do on and off track! More Info

    7. Goodwood Revival 

    Goodwood, ~Early September

    Every September the Revival recreates the golden era of Goodwood Motor Circuit, between 1948 and 1966. This extraordinary event assembles the most significant racing cars and motorcycles along with legendary drivers and riders from the past and stars of today. More Info

    8. Kop Hill Climb Festival 

    Buckinghamshire, ~Mid-September

    Kop Hill Climb Festival is your chance to get up close and personal with historic cars and bikes in action — admire their beauty and chat with their owners– the full experience. The event is set in a beautifully relaxed location with a real family friendly village atmosphere. More Info

    (Source: https://www.driving.co.uk/news/events/uk-motoring-events-festivals-calendar-2019/)

    9. Regent Street Motor Show

    London, ~Early November

    The annual Regent Street Motor Show is a unique free-to-view London motor show, previewing the famous London to Brighton Veteran Car Run and the Veteran Car Concours d’Elegance. The event takes place on a traffic-free Regent Street from Piccadilly to Oxford Circus. More Info

    Racing event at Motorsport Valley

    Here are some of the ways you can get inspired on your visit to Motorsport Valley. 

    1. Silverstone Driving Experience 

    A track day at one of the world’s most legendary circuits in some of the world’s fastest cars would seem like any motorhead’s dream come true. It’s time to put on your racing suits because this dream can become a reality. More Info

    2. Motorsport Valley Tour 

    July 15th — 16th 2019

    The tour gives you first hand access to the ultra-secretive world of Formula 1. The expertly-curated two-day event will give participants an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience with 3 leading Formula 1 teams — Red Bull Racing, Williams and McLaren. More Info

    3. Track days and Racing experiences

    There are several driving experiences that happen year-round within Motorsport Valley involving a wide range of cars and tracks to choose from. Here are some service providers that can arrange these thrilling experiences for you:
    > https://www.virginexperiencedays.co.uk/driving
    > https://www.trackdays.co.uk/driving-experience/
    > https://thruxtonracing.co.uk/experiences

    4. Sim Racing

    The Race Hut located in Oxford features 16 state of the art triple-monitor racing simulators to help satisfy all your sim-racing needs! Various competitive events and experiences are also held on a regular basis to keep racing enthusiasts engaged. More Info

     

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    B-Hive Living is an operator of private rental coliving homes re-defining shared living for a new generation of entrepreneurs and professionals in Oxfordshire and internationally.
    Beyond mere accommodation, our homes offer a dynamic and life-enriching experience through well-designed areas and a calendar of social and cultural activities to foster connection, boost creativity and enable a healthier and more fullfilling lifestyle.
    If you are looking to join a vibrant community of like-minded motorsport professionals and enthusiasts, please reach out on +44 (0) 333 577 1088 or info@b-hiveliving.com

  • Motorsport Valley®: another reason to choose Bicester for living and working

    Motorsport Valley®: another reason to choose Bicester for living and working

    Welcome to the biggest hub of motor racing in the world: the Motorsport Valley®

    Also known as Silicon Fen, Motorsport Valley® refers to the cluster of firms based around Oxfordshire and the Midlands involved in supplying cutting-edge technology to Formula One, Formula E and many other motorsport sectors. They dominate the design and manufacture of components used in the majority of the world’s motor racing categories today.

    The valley is also home to some of the world’s biggest and most recognised motor racing teams. It’s within the geography of this valley that science and technology take the forefront in pioneering the next big innovations in motorsports.

    History of motor racing in Oxfordshire

    During the Second World war, the Thames Valley became important centre for aerospace engineering owing to its location which was ideal for building and servicing aircraft. Post the war many of the airfields and their engineers were no longer needed. This concentration of engineering talent was easily transitioned into motorsport alongside the abandoned airfields which proved to be the perfect infrastructure for racetracks. These conditions were too ideal to resist, and the valley saw motorsport companies flocking down to establish themselves here. The rest as they say was history — and the Motorsport Valley® was born!

    Did you know?

    The name Motorsport Valley has even been trademarked by the Motorsport Industry Association, the global trade association for the motorsport industry due to its unique qualities.

    “No matter where you live in Oxfordshire, 7 out of the 10 Formula 1 teams are within an hour’s drive. The majority of Formula E teams as well as many F2, F3, GT3 teams and their suppliers are based here too. If you’re looking to work in the motorsport sector, Oxfordshire is definitely the best area to do so!”

    (Mátyás Nagy– F1 Motorsport Engineer and former B-Hive Living resident)

    Motorsport Valley Facts

    • Motorsport Valley has around 4,300 companies that employ around 41,000 people; that’s a good-sized town in motorsport alone.
    • Motorsport in the UK has a turnover of £9 billion (as of 2019), which has more than doubled in the past twenty years.
    • Nearly 90% of the motorsport companies in the UK export overseas and the majority of this economic activity takes place in the Motorsport Valley®.
    • Motorsport Valley companies spend a colossal amount on R&D at around 25–30% of turnover — that’s even more than the pharmaceutical industry (which spends 15%).
    • 15 different universities in the UK offer motorsport engineering as a specific course, and these universities are clustered around Motorsport Valley® (more on that below).

    The Big Players of motor racing

    Get a glimpse of some of the major companies and teams at the forefront of motor racing which are based at the valley.

    Formula 1

    Mercedes– Brackley, Northamptonshire

    For Formula 1 fans, the name Mercedes has become synonymous with victory. Mercedes has become one of the most successful teams in recent Formula One history, having achieved consecutive Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships from 2014 to 2018.

    Official Webpage.

    McLaren- Woking, Surrey

    The McLaren Formula 1 team has been one of the most successful teams in the sport’s history. Since the team’s inception in 1966, they have won 182 races, 12 Drivers’ Championships and 8 Constructors’ Championships.

    Official Webpage

    Aston Martin Redbull Racing- Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire

    Owned by beverage company Red Bull GmbH, the popular marketing line associated with the brand — Red bull gives you wings- seems to have been put into practice on track with the team dominating motor racing weekends and making their way into several podium finishes.

    Official Webpage

    Renault Sport — Enstone, Oxfordshire

    French auto car maker Renault is currently involved in Formula One as a constructor, under the name of Renault F1 Team. They have been associated with Formula One as both constructor and engine supplier for various periods since 1977.

    Official Webpage

    Did you know?

    Renault was responsible for introducing the first turbo engine in Formula One with the Renault RS01 when the company became a constructor in 1977

    Williams Racing F1 — Grove, Oxfordshire

    Founded in 1977, the team has racked up several Grand Prix wins and championship glory. The team has also nurtured some of the greatest talents in the sportincluding Nigel Mansell, Jenson Button, Alain Prost, and Ayrton Senna.

    Official Webpage

    Racing point F1- Silverstone, Northamptonshire

    Having the team’s base established a stone’s throw away from the legendary British racing circuit Silverstone, Racing Point F1 steadily established themselves as a midfield force under the Force India name from 2007.

    Official Webpage

    Formula E

    Envision Virgin Racing- Silverstone, Northamptonshire

    Based on prime real estate at Silverstone, the team has been a active competitor in the ABB FIA Formula E Championship since it’s very inception. Virgin Racing becomes Envision Virgin Racing for the 2018/19 season after partnering with a digital energy company: Envision Group.

    Official Webpage

    Panasonic Jaguar Racing- Whitley, Coventry

    Having joined the ABB FIA Formula E Championship in 2016, the Panasonic Jaguar Racing team is ready to head into its third season in the series with its new Gen2 Jaguar I-TYPE 3.

    Official Webpage

    Did you know?

    With 54kWh of usable energy, the Gen2 Formula E battery could power an average British household for more than 4 days!

    NIO Formula E Team – Oxford

    The NIO Formula E Team is the racing arm of Chinese car maker NIO, and the evolution of Team China Racing. The team secured the inaugural FIA Formula E Drivers’ Championship in 2015.

    Official Webpage

    Automotive Companies & Suppliers Around Motorsport Valley

    Catch sight of some of the companies and suppliers that make Motorsport Valley a hotbed for automotive innovation and talent.

    Aston Martin– Gaydon, Warwickshire

    Founded in 1913 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, Aston Martin is primarily associated with the manufacturing of grand tourers and luxury sports cars. Their cars are regarded as a British cultural icon.

    Official Webpage

    BMW Mini– Cowley, Southeast Oxford

    MINI is a British automotive marqueowned by BMW since 2000 and is responsible for pioneering the Mini Cooper — one of the most legendary small cars in automotive history. Their main plant is located right outside Oxford.

    Official Webpage

    Jaguar– Whitley, Coventry

    Founded in 1933 by William Lyons, Jaguar is an iconic British manufacturer and the name behind some of history’s most legendary cars like the Type-E. Its operations were completely merged with Land Rover to form the Jaguar Land Rover company.

    Official Webpage

    Bentley– Crewe, Cheshire

    Bentley is a British manufacturer and marketer of luxury cars and SUVs, founded in 1919 by W.O. Bentley and H.M. Bentley. The company claims to have one clear aim — to create extraordinary cars for extraordinary customers.

    Official Webpage

    Prodrive– Banbury, Oxfordshire

    Prodrive is a well-known British motorsport group that designs, constructs and races cars for companies and teams such as Aston Martin, Mini and Volkswagen. Prodrive first became well known for its involvement with the Subaru World Rally Team, developing championship-winning cars for Colin McRae and Richard Burns.

    Official Webpage

     

     

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    B-Hive Living is an operator of private rental coliving homes re-defining shared living for a new generation of entrepreneurs and professionals in Oxfordshire and internationally.
    Beyond mere accommodation, our homes offer a dynamic and life-enriching experience through well-designed areas and a calendar of social and cultural activities to foster connection, boost creativity and enable a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle.
    If you are looking to join a vibrant community of like-minded motorsport professionals and enthusiasts, please contact us at info@b-hiveliving.com
  • About the cosy comforts of the Hives – interview with Francois

    About the cosy comforts of the Hives – interview with Francois

    Our Hivers are an eclectic bunch of awesome individuals from all walks of life and corners of the globe. They are open-minded professionals, entrepreneurs and digital nomads who share a lust for living well. To give you a little more insight on who Hive residents are, we interviewed one of them – Francois.

    Hello everybody! My name is Francois, I am originally from South Africa. I moved to the UK at the beginning of 2019 to pursue some good career opportunity as a finance manager for a company operating in the automotive industry and my dream has always been to move closer to Europe. Now that I am settled in the UK, I would love to travel Europe and get to know more of the culture and diversity of the different European countries.

    Have you lived in a shared living space before? What made you choose coliving/our Hives as your home?

    I have been coliving for quite some time now, I chose coliving as a convenient, affordable and flexible way of living. Plus, I am single, so having the opportunity to get to know more people and being part of a vibrant community of Hive residents is something I really value in this stage of my life.

    How would you describe coliving as opposed to other types of accommodation you previously experienced?

    For someone who is single coliving provide an affordable, convenient and fun way of living. I really have great relationships with the other Hive residents and we all live a pretty hectic lifestyle. Shared living makes much more sense for us given we spend so little time at home, and we all enjoy each other company.


    What is your favourite part of your Hive home and why?

    I love the spacious well-equipped kitchen, the living room with a super comfortable TV area (which we often use for karaoke or gaming), the large skylight dining area and the spacious bedrooms all equipped with private en-suite bathrooms. You can tell that each space in the Hive has been designed around resident’s needs.

    In your Hive space you are more…

    Coffee or Tea? Tea

    Quiet housemate or social animal? Quiet but sociable

    More at your room or a particular common area? Enjoy spending time in common area when Hivers are around to talk or simply watch a movie together. But I also need quiet time in my room at the end of a very busy day!

    How would describe your “Hivemates”? What difference did they make to your life?

    In my Hive there are people from different nationalities: from Spain, Italy, England, India and even Czech Republic. Each Hiver has a unique side to them, and I enjoy chatting to each of them and get to know more about their countries, passions, hobbies and lifestyles. Our diversity and the fact we all come from different walks of life makes our community very special. Plus, we all are professional people so I find it interesting to get to know their professional experience, especially given I am new to the UK market.

    What’s the most unexpected thing you discovered about yourself or coliving being in a Hive?

    One would think that living and sharing space with other people from different backgrounds would not be easy and problems could arise. This is not my experience living in the Hive, we get along all very well and if any issue arises, we resolve our differences very amicably.

    Would you recommend B-Hive Living to a friend? Why?

    Yes, for sure. I also love the calendar of the Hive Social sessions designed to inspire fun, connection and a healthier way of living for the residents. The social events are an opportunity to get to know Hivers better. I particularly enjoyed the bring and share social event at one of our Hives recently, everyone shared some food from their country and we enjoyed playing live music thanks to some very talented people in our community.

     

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    B-Hive Living is a coliving brand redefining the concept of living well for a more connected, healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.
  • Is coliving better than living on your own – interview with Dieter

    Is coliving better than living on your own – interview with Dieter

    Our Hivers are an eclectic bunch of awesome individuals from all walks of life and corners of the globe. They are open-minded professionals, entrepreneurs and digital nomads who share a lust for living well. To give you a little more insight on who your actual potential roommates are, we interviewed one of our residents – Dieter.

    Hi all, my name is Dieter, and I am 20 years old, I am a Belgian and I came to England to complete part of my training to become a pilot. To go back in my past, I started my high school studies in Industrial Engineering, followed by Mechanical Engineering, and ended up studying and graduating in Aircraft Engineering. For this last part of my studies I did an internship with the Belgian Air Force. I worked on several aircrafts, e.g. F-16, Embraer 145, Falcon 900 and C-130’s. My hobby is martial arts, I have been doing this for over 8 years and it is a nice way to let go of all the daily stresses and to focus on something completely different. Next to studying in Belgium, I have had training in the United States as well, in the second stage of my flight training.

    Have you lived in a shared-living space before? What made you choose coliving/our Hives as your home?

    This is my first experience living in a coliving space and it’s certainly very different (especially compared to living on your own!) and has many positive aspects. Here at the Hive I have been living with other Residents with completely different backgrounds, which makes the experience very interesting. You get to know each other, you grow in your social skills, you learn how to live and adapt to each other overtime and develop a kind of routine in the house. We communicate well and everybody is happy, that is the kind of atmosphere you want in a coliving space.

    How would you describe coliving as opposed to other types of accommodation you previously experienced?

    Living on your own, at the end of the day, makes you feel quite lonely and isolated. At the end of a long day you arrive at home and there is not much excitement beyond catching up on social media, TV or some tech-entertainment on your own. While the experience in coliving is way more pleasant, because there will always be someone to talk to and share your experience with. Cooking together with your roommates, watching a movie or simply catch up in the garden or in one of the common areas of the Hive never makes you feel lonely. It’s definitely an antidote to loneliness!

    What is favourite part of your Hive home and why?

    My favourite part of the Hive is the ability to meet new people and to share your stories and experiences with them. Since everybody is different there is so much to learn about each other. Differences in age, nationality, profession, interests… enrich your day to day living, and each individual story brings a different dynamic to living together and the story of each Hive community.

    In your Hive space you are more…

    • Coffee or Tea? Coffee, as I am awake very early very often, coffee is my friend.
    • Quiet roommate or social animal? Mix of both, when I have big tests and assignments to do, I will be in my room for hours, but once that is done, you can find me downstairs with all the rest of us, either to cook together or just to talk and have fun.
    • More at your room or a particular common area? I am more in the common areas, since it is more open and it is nice decorated.

    How would describe your roommates? What difference did they make to your life?

    I would describe them as open persons who work hard to achieve what they want in life. This is a very motivating aspect for me personally, to do my best each day and continue to develop myself to all possibilities in life. In addition my roommates are concerned about what I do and will always be there when you need something.

    What’s the most unexpected thing you discovered about yourself or coliving being in a Hive?

    The most unexpected thing for me is how my social skills has evolved since living with my Hive roommates. Due to the high workload at the Oxford Aviation Academy I spend all my time training and there is not much time left for friends, but since I have been living in a coliving environment, being social becomes part of your daily routine, and that is something I did not expect to happen but that I truly enjoy.

    Would you recommend B-Hive Living to a friend? Why?

    If you like to be around people without compromising the privacy of your own space, B-Hive Living is something I certainly recommend. In addition, you can be sure that each room is well equipped with all you need, not just your own private room but each communal space of the house.

     

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    B-Hive Living is a multi-award winning coliving brand, operator and asset manager of coliving properties with a strong track record of best-in-class design, investment and management practices. Our mission is to empower professional renters to lead a more connected, healthy and fulfilling lifestyle through co-living. This relentless focus on our residents’ well-being ensures a sustained demand wherever we operate.