The intellectual purpose of this proposed research is to explore the inter-relation and conflict between value rationality (a focus on ends) and instrumental rationality (a focus on means) (Weber 1978) in the evolving coordination and organization of a mutual cohousing initiative, with a focus on the role of the operationalisation and expression of values in their activities (i.e. what the organisation does in the light of what its aspirations were/are). The practical purpose is to contribute to the practical reflection of mutual and cooperative housing groups, and the policy debates on mutualisation and the ‘Big Society’.