What is Suvana?
Suvana is a Buddhist cohousing community that combines shared living with Buddhist values such as loving-kindness, generosity, and mindfulness. It is being developed as part of the wider Northstowe development in Cambridgeshire.
What is cohousing?
Cohousing is a collaborative way of living where individuals have their own private homes but share common spaces and facilities, fostering connection and mutual support. It encourages sustainability, reduces costs, and supports a strong sense of community.
Do I need to be a Buddhist to join?
No, you don’t need to formally identify as a Buddhist to join. Suvana welcomes anyone who resonates with Buddhist values such as mindfulness and generosity. Partners or family members of practising Buddhists are also welcome, provided they are aligned with these values.
Do I have to be a particular type of Buddhist?
No, Suvana is open to Buddhists of all traditions; the community is not exclusive to any particular school or practice. However, the Suvana “founders” and current committee members are all practicing within the Triratna Buddhist movement, so it is likely that the majority of Suvana inhabitants will be affiliated with Triratna.
What is a cocreator?
Cocreators are future residents actively involved in shaping the Suvana community. Through collaborative decision-making and co-design workshops, cocreators help determine the layout, values, and shared vision for Suvana. It’s about building not just a physical space, but a meaningful and connected community.
Who is TOWN?
TOWN is a profit-with-purpose developer partnering with Suvana Cohousing to bring this vision to life. They have experience in delivering award-winning projects such as Marmalade Lane, Cambridge, another cohousing community developed in collaboration with Mole Architects. TOWN is working alongside Homes England, the landowner of Northstowe, to create a sustainable and inclusive development.
What is Northstowe?
Northstowe is a new town being developed in Cambridgeshire, planned to include 10,000 homes, shops, schools, green spaces and community facilities. Suvana Cohousing will be part of phase two of this development.
What kind of homes will be available?
Suvana plans to include approximately 25 apartments and 12 houses, forming a multigenerational community. Homes will range from one-bedroom flats to larger family houses, with the final mix tailored to the needs of future residents.
How much will homes cost?
Below is a table of indicative prices. These prices are based on the current market, and could go up or down over the next few years depending on the overall market situation. The prices are higher than average Northstowe prices because we are asking for a high-quality build that aligns with our desire for eco-friendly housing (and hopefully lower energy bills!). These prices include a pro rata cost of the common house and other community facilities. Some first-time buyers may be eligible for Discounted Market Sale. Final prices will be confirmed closer to the construction phase. Please note that this is not the full list of property types we intend to offer.
1-bedroom Flat, 51 sq.m. - £250,000 - £275,000
2-bedroom Flat, 75 sq.m. - £350,000 - £375,000
2-bed Terraced House, 80 sq.m. - £425,000 - £450,000
3-bed Terraced House, 93 sq.m. - £475,000 - £505,000
3-bed Terraced House, 108 sq.m. - £525,000 - £550,000
4-bed Terraced House, 122 sq.m. - £575,000 - £600,000
What are the timeframes for the project?
TOWN will be submitting a planning application for the development in Summer 2025, we anticipate construction will begin in Spring 2026 with first homes being occupied in Winter 2027.
What sustainability features will Suvana include?
Suvana will prioritise low-carbon, energy-efficient homes designed with Passivhaus principles. Timber frames, water-efficient designs, and solar panels are planned to minimise environmental impact. Other sustainability factors include designing-in low car dependence.
Will sound insulation be good?
Yes, sound insulation will be integrated into the design to meet or exceed building regulations. Additional measures for specific needs, like musicians requiring extra soundproofing, can be discussed in the co-design workshops.
What about site conditions, like flooding?
The site is part of the wider Homes England master plan, which includes a robust flood risk strategy. Civil engineers and design specialists are working to ensure that the development is resilient and sustainable.
How will affordable housing work?
Affordable housing will be available under the Northstowe Discount Market Sale scheme, offering eligible first-time buyers a 20% discount on certain homes. Currently, this applies to one- and two-bedroom apartments. Suvana is also exploring options for rental homes.
What happens if I want to sell my home?
Homes at Suvana will likely be easy to sell, as seen with Marmalade Lane, which has a waiting list of 400 households. While there may not be formal restrictions, the community will work together to prioritise buyers aligned with Buddhist values.
How does Suvana keep spiritual vibrancy alive?
Suvana connects people based on shared Buddhist values, fostering a spiritual and supportive environment. The community is designed to encourage mindfulness, shared decision-making, and mutual respect in daily life. See our story and vision.
Can Suvana be replicated elsewhere?
We’d love there to be lots of other Suvanas all over the country! We would be delighted to help other Buddhist cohousing communities.
What is the vetting process for residents?
There will be a process to decide who joins, based on shared values rather than rigid criteria. It’s about creating a vibrant community grounded in Buddhist values, where all residents contribute to the community.
Can I visit the site?
Yes, site visits are organised regularly as part of cocreator meetings. Contact us for details or to request or suggest upcoming events and opportunities to meet future neighbours.
What does “Suvana” mean?
Suvana means “good or happy forest retreat” or “realm.” It reflects the vision of creating a peaceful, supportive community surrounded by nature.
Where is the nearest hospital?
The nearest hospital is Addenbrooke’s in Cambridge, with an A&E unit also available at Hinchingbrooke Hospital.