Starting this month, we will try to regularly post a profile of one of our members. The idea is to get behind the scene and understand how Cohabs works and discover this whole coliving concept.
First thing first, could you give us a little brief about yourself ? Where do you come from ? What’s your background ?
My name is Victorien but everybody calls me Vito because it’s much easier to pronounce (laughs). I’m coming from the North of France, Amiens, which is the birthplace of Emmanuel Macron ! I’ve done engineering studies in France and in England, Cranfield (editor’s note : located in the south of Northampton).
Why did you move to Brussels ?
Freshly graduated, I was looking for a job and the first interesting answer I got was from a large Belgium consulting company ! I’ve chosen Brussels because of the work opportunity of course but also because of the city, it looked like an eclectic and vibrant place to stay. As I didn’t know anyone in Brussels, I decided to look for a flatshare.
Could you describe what you were looking for in term of accommodation ?
I wanted to meet as much people as possible and not stay in a lonely flat. I had heard that Brussels was an international city, that’s why I didn’t want to live in Ixelles or Châtelain because it’s the favorite place of French expats.
I had never experienced living with roommates. I was really curious to meet new people from all over the world.
Why did you decide to stay at Cohabs ?
Because I had a really good feeling with the roommates and the room was amazing. I was really excited about the concept and this whole community vibe.
The funny thing is that Fritz (editor’s note : Friedrich, his current German roommate in Cohabs Ambiorix) booked the room before me on the Internet and paid the deposit before me, so he got the room I wanted (laughs).
What strikes you at first sight with the Cohabs concept ?
That’s a good question. I think firstly the size of the common spaces and the house ! Secondly, a garden in the heart of Brussels was a really good surprise. Thirdly, when Youri (editor’s note : the CEO of Cohabs) explained me the concept of coliving, the events and the community he was trying to build between the houses, I was completely seduced by this new form of living.
Could you pick up 3 words to describe your experience so far ?
I’d say sharing, happiness and … loose (laughs). “Loose” was the favorite word of Sean, our former British roommate, to describe the overall atmosphere in the house. I think it means a real friendly atmosphere, a total relaxation and a nice feeling during our dinners and parties.
Would you recommend Cohabs to a friend ? Why ?
To be honest, already done twice ! I told Fritz to join us in Ambiorix and two weeks after my call he was moving in the house (happy smile).
Simply because Cohabs is a nice and unique concept which allows you to feel deeply integrated into a friendly atmosphere and into a wonderful and cosmopolitan city which I felt in love !
