EN
Why have you chosen Brussels?
At the age of 31, I'm a Belgian from Liège. I chose to come to Brussels to resume my studies in International Business at a leading business school. Before joining Brussels Fort, I lived and worked in Liège, in the city center. I had my own apartment and lived on my own.
How’s your experiment going so far?
The most enjoyable aspect is meeting other people. The house is spacious with 11 rooms, so I've already met quite a few people.
We get to discover different cultures, ways of thinking, doing things, and living. Living together means you're never alone; there's always someone around. For those who enjoy socializing and never staying in their bubble, it's ideal. I really appreciate these aspects of coliving.
What is your favorite room in the house?
I really like the living room and kitchen. We often gather in the kitchen. We have many meals together, "movie nights," or traditional evenings in the living room. We share, and everyone is on the couches. The atmosphere is cozy, so it feels great.
© Jules Toulet - Brussels Fort living room
Do you have a particular memory with your housemates that you would like to share?
We're a very close-knit group. One memory that comes to mind is when I took everyone to a karaoke bar in the center of Brussels, Amalgame. After a few drinks, we sang well, and it resulted in some fun videos and photos. We had a great time and went back several times afterward.
Another time, we had a burger dinner with Alexandra, whom I call the "mom" of the house. We all cooked together, sat around the table, and had a great time. A very good memory is also from a day trip to Ghent, Belgium. We all spontaneously decided to take the train and spent a sunny day there, a great memory!
What advice would you give to someone arriving in a new city?
It depends on the personality and the desired experience. When arriving in a city where you don't know many people, whether working or studying, coliving helps you meet people. It not only prevents you from being alone but also allows you to immediately create a first circle of friends, a small group to live and share with. Those who have been living in the house for a while can share their experiences, recommend places, helping newcomers integrate quickly.
What advice would you give to someone joining a Sharies house?
Initially, it's essential for current residents to welcome the new person; it's kind of our responsibility. For a resident joining Sharies, having the right attitude is important: introduce yourself, be friendly, and show enthusiasm.
I think bringing your good mood and experience is crucial, and the chemistry will naturally happen!
How do you welcome a new resident?
Depending on everyone's schedule, it sometimes happens gradually because it can be challenging to spontaneously gather everyone. However, we always find an opportunity to come together, whether for a culinary evening or a shared activity. The integration goes well.
How often do you have meetings among roommates?
We have "official" meetings every two weeks with something organized. But of course, living under the same roof, we also organize more spontaneous things throughout the days. We bump into each other in the morning, and we plan a drink or a card game for the next day. And regularly, someone sends "movie night?" on our common chat. Regarding that, it's challenging to please everyone with the movie choice.
Which Sharies event did you like the most?
The kickboxing class we had was really enjoyable. The board game night in a downtown bar was also great. It allowed us to meet residents from other Sharies houses in Brussels. We even organized a night where we invited residents from another Sharies house, which was super nice. In terms of ideas: maybe a Chandler party and a karaoke night. We also thought about a game night/apero in the house. I think all of this is planned by Sharies soon.
© Guillemette S. - A kick-boxing class organised by Sharies
A movie you all watched together?
We watched a few. "Drunk," a great Danish film. We also watched "Grown up" on Eva's recommendation, but it was really not that great.
Your favorite dish?
Meatballs with Liège syrup sauce. I also love Flemish beef stew.
Your place in Brussels to unwind? The place to be?
Since I've been here in Saint-Gilles, it's the Maison du Peuple on the square. We often go there with roommates for a few drinks, have a plate of tapas, and it's really the place to be to relax.