Abstract:
The rapid growth of co-living as a contemporary housing concept in urban areas
has created an urgent need for interior design strategies that can accommodate
the diverse lifestyles, activities, and backgrounds of its residents. This study
focuses on optimizing the design of shared spaces in community-based co-
living environments, with the primary objective of enhancing comfort, social
interaction, and spatial flexibility. The research adopts the Design-Based
Research (DBR) method, which integrates five stages: contextual problem
analysis, formulation of initial design solutions, implementation and
exploration through semi-structured interviews and participatory observation,
reflection and refinement of design iterations, and final evaluation based on
comfort, functionality, and social usability indicators. The findings reveal that
major design challenges include the absence of clear spatial zoning, limited
natural lighting, suboptimal ventilation, and the inflexible use of fixed, non-
modular furniture. These issues were addressed through the application of
ergonomic principles, the integration of balanced natural and artificial lighting
strategies, and the introduction of flexible, modular furniture to support
dynamic spatial arrangements. Furthermore, the adoption of the Japandi style—
combining minimalist Japanese aesthetics with the warmth and functionality of
Scandinavian design—proved effective in creating spaces that are visually
calming, practical, and conducive to both productivity and communal
interaction.In conclusion, this research demonstrates that DBR provides a
robust framework for generating contextual, adaptive, and applicable interior
design solutions for co-living environments. The proposed design not only
achieves aesthetic value but also strengthens the role of shared spaces as
collective hubs that promote community engagement, personal comfort, and
modern communal living.
