A 120-year-old mansion, run as a co-living house

Utopia is a big old Fresnaye mansion that we've turned into a relaxed community house. The bones are the original ones — high ceilings, fireplaces, wooden shutters — and the shared spaces are large enough that five people living in the main house never feel on top of each other.

Outside there is a giant pool with a view of Lion's Head, a hot tub open all year, a braai area for entertaining, three patios and a garden with fruit trees and birds. Inside, a huge lounge with workspace and a kitchen big enough for people to cook at the same time.

Every bedroom has a bed and a desk or dedicated workspace. Wi-Fi is fast and an inverter keeps it running through load shedding.

Who lives here

Up to seven housemates at a time, a mix of Cape Town locals and internationals. Everyone here is conscientious and easy going. Housemates are around as much or as little as you like, you can join a braai by the pool or close your door and work. Keeping a good vibe is important to us, so we get to know each person before choosing them as our new housemate.

Your host

The house is hosted by Christina, who has been hosting for 8 years. Every room at Utopia is rated 5.0 by guests, across 47 reviews on her Airbnb profile.

Practical things

A regular cleaning service looks after the shared areas. There are exterior security cameras, and the neighbourhood is considered one of the safest in Cape Town. Stays range from a few weeks to several months.