Isolullisia

Isolullisia is a term used in urban studies to describe self-contained, small-scale communities embedded within larger cities that prioritize social cohesion and autonomous management of housing, services, and infrastructure. The concept functions as a design and governance approach rather than a single fixed model, and it has been discussed in contemporary debates about resilient and inclusive urban development.

Etymology and scope. The word isolullisia is a neologism that has emerged in Finnish-language planning literature to denote a cluster of dwellings and facilities organized around shared living arrangements and mutual aid networks. While there is no single formal definition, isolullisia generally refer to grouped housing arrangements that blend private living space with shared resources, aimed at reducing external dependencies and increasing local resilience.

Structure and features. Typical isolullisia configurations emphasize geographic proximity for ease of access to shared facilities such as kitchens, workspaces, maintenance and energy systems, and social spaces. Governance is often resident-led, with councils or cooperatives coordinating decisions on maintenance, budgeting, and community norms. The model may include mixed-use amenities, local energy generation, shared transportation options, and digital platforms that support mutual aid and coordination among residents.

Implications and debates. Proponents argue that isolullisia can bolster social capital, improve housing stability, and enhance resilience to disruptions by shortening supply chains and increasing self-reliance. Critics raise concerns about potential social segregation, inequitable access, governance complexity, and scalability challenges in larger urban contexts. The balance between community control and integration with broader city systems is a central point of discussion.

See also. Cohousing, intentional community, mutual aid networks, participatory planning.