The redNERD-Story – “Let's create together”
Coliving Hurghada was founded in May 2023 with the vision of establishing Egypt’s first coliving and coworking space in Hurghada. Designed for a global community, it warmly welcomes people from all over the world. More than 20 volunteers contributed to building what we proudly call our “redNERD” villa, embodying our motto, “let’s create together!” This collaborative spirit has given Coliving Hurghada a unique character, shaped by the diverse ideas, creations, and aspirations of everyone involved.
Let me give you an overview:
The following months were incredibly busy for everyone involved. Work on the second floor began with Marco from Germany, while Sofia from Italy returned to assist for a second time, building wardrobes on the third floor alongside Ben from the UK. Together, they constructed the first bed, which became the prototype for all beds in the villa. Dan from the UK joined to help finalize the second floor, collaborating with many local workers, including builders, plasterers, plumbers, carpenters, and painters. He also built the kitchen furniture for the large community kitchen on the first floor.
During this period, the pool was drained and retiled. Marco and Sofia rewired and installed new electrical systems on the first and second floors. After the new Jura chalk stone (Gallala) was laid on these floors, Severin and Zoe from Switzerland arrived to complete five new bathrooms. Nelly from Sweden added the finishing touches by sanding all the Gallala tiles in the bathrooms and painting the walls.
On October 21, 2023 — my 33rd birthday — I was thrilled to announce our next milestone achievement! All the rooms had been built and painted from scratch, the bathrooms completed, a new entrance door installed, and the kitchen marble put in place. Sharon from Australia and Nicola from Italy arrived that day from Luxor to celebrate with me. Together, they built the remaining seven beds and handled many small tasks throughout the villa, both indoors and outdoors. They also crafted the wooden divider in the coworking space.
Filipe from Costa Rica and Aki from Japan, along with Marco, created beautiful mirrors and tables for both the indoor and outdoor areas. The next major project was constructing the remaining three pergolas in the garden with the help of Aki and Marco. Vanita from India designed a vibrant mirror and photo wall on the first floor. Alongside Giovani from Mexico, we applied varnish to all the beds and tables.
Throughout this journey, I am deeply grateful for the support of volunteers, family, and friends. With their help, we have created a unique coliving space for people from all over the world to experience community and work together in Egypt’s first and only coliving and coworking space.
I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the many volunteers from around the world who weren’t mentioned by name. This place wouldn’t be what it is today without the contributions of each and every one of you.
Thank you for your invaluable help,
Marcel
