Olamina Commons
Planting the Seeds for an Urban CoHousing MicroVillage in Winston Salem
Welcome Home.
How shall we live? How shall we make community?
Vision
We are planting seeds for an intergenerational residential microvillage in Winston Salem!
Picture a diverse mix of owners, renters and rent to owners. We will each have our own private small house and share "the commons" resources, including land we intentionally do not develop into housing.
Grounded in a commitment to exceptional communication and mutual aid, we can co-create a way of being at home, work and play that is connected and sustainable.
Vision Meetings
We meet online Thursdays at 7 to dream together. Reach out to join the call.
Join us as we turn talk into action ... building housing, equitable relationships, and new community models.
Land
The property under consideration presently has 4 lots across 7 acres with an existing home and 2 other buildings. It is in a suburban area of the city that is being taken over and developed with high density single family homes. It is at the end of a road, abutting some flood land that will likely stay un-developed, a set of agricultural lots, and urban multifamily developments.
The plan is to develop housing and parking near the road, build a common house and short term stay buildings in the back, and leave a remaining 3(ish) acres open to gardens and other shared amenities.
Seed Team
Founding Investor (& future resident): Rayellen Kishbach, Winston Salem - I have been inspired by, learning and practicing community skills for a long time, including living in cohousing, creating community gathering places, and participating in and facilitiating circles and retreats. The initial spark for Olamina Commons is mine, and I'm looking forward to sharing the process.
Realtor: Donna Claytor, Coldwell Banker - I'm a single mom with a passion for life and a genuine love for helping people. Whether it was the children I inspired as a coach and physical education teacher or the lives I impact today as a leading real estate professional. I enjoy traveling, reading and following my daughter as she plays collegiate basketball. My dream is to make every moment count for you during your real estate experience. When you work with me toward the sale or purchase of your home, you can count on me to be there for you every step of the way with sound guidance and personal support.
Builder: We plan to work with True Homes - a local Carolina-based semi-custom home builder dedicated to bringing the best new home designs, new home styles, and new home value to North and South Carolina residential communities.
Village visioner: We will be seeking guidance to craft what is possible from Mark Lakeman, founder of Communitecture Architecture and the City Repair Project. Other projects from Communitecture: Cully Green Cohousing, Cully Grove Cohousing, Sabin Green Cohousing, Mason Street Townhomes (Cohousing), Peninsula Park Cohousing, Ruth's Littlest Village (Cohousing) https://www.communitecture.net/