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A unique subdivision in western Loudoun County (web|news), designed to bring neighbors closer together, is anything but average.
The Catoctin Creek Village (web|news) development is quaint, quiet and anything but average; more so than neighbors might have thought. "It was like a commune," said Catoctin Creek Found Kevin Oliveau.
The commune is a flash from the past where people lived together and shared almost everything. "We don't share incomes. We don't share partners. It's just like any other subdivision but with a slight twist," said Oliveau.
The twist is much like a golf community, but without the golf. The concept is known as co-housing.
The concept of co-housing did evolve from the communes of the 70's, but people at Catoctin Creek say they are less like flower children and more like farm family.
The homeowner's agreement gently dictates residents participate in social events, evening meals, or join work parties at the common house, barn or on acres of open space they share.
"Fixing things, clearing brush, taking down dead trees, things of that nature," said resident Chris Hill.
All of the togetherness is meant to make Catoctin Creek an old-fashioned village where neighbor takes care of neighbor. "I love it here," said resident Rachel Downing.
Rachel plans to retire in the community and currently spends a lot of time with the Catoctin Creek kids writing a newsletter. "I really want to be a part of things. I want to participate and I can do that here."
An on-line directory lists around 1,300 intentional communities in North America including dozens in Virginia and Maryland, even a few in the District. "I think people miss that sense of belonging," said Downing.
With half of Catoctin Creek's lots sold, prices are pretty close to an average golf community.
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