Design tips for a multi-generational home

More and more families live in the same house with their parents, grandparents, children, uncles… This is due to the increase in housing costs that society is exposed to all over the world. While it may seem like having too many people living in one home isn't ideal, sometimes there is no choice…and living in a multi-generational home can have its advantages.

Whether you want to save money or provide other care (like caring for grandparents), you can find a way to make the home design exactly what you're comfortable with. Of course, that doesn't mean there won't be any hassle.

The trick to multigenerational homes is to design spaces that make sense. When a home is designed for comfort, privacy, and accessibility, living with family can be comfortable and convenient. Homes designed with multiple generations in mind mean you can live with multiple generations without losing your sanity. Find out how.

Accessibility

Multi-generational homes require thinking about accessibility. Even if Grandma and Grandpa can now move around easily, thinking ahead can save you headaches. Create a space Wheelchair accessible facilities mean that elderly residents will always feel comfortable.

Open-concept layouts are great for moving around, and setting up rooms so everyone has access to their own private space (think of putting elderly residents on the main floor) means everyone can stay as independent as possible.

Select main floor rooms

When you have the option to choose between main and second floor bedrooms in multi-generational homes, choose the main floor for the oldest. Not only are they the most accessible as your family ages, but they also provide one or Two bedrooms on the main floor can create a natural separation between generations.

While it may seem natural to place all the rooms on the second floor, putting some on the main floor offers more privacy and a bit of personal space to keep everyone emotionally healthy.

Dual purpose in design

Remember this general rule: It is easy to convert a bedroom into another space, but it is not always possible to convert a space into a bedroom. Rooms often require windows and closets, so Design your multigenerational home with this factor in mind.

If you think of all your spaces as dual-purpose, you’ll have more flexibility down the road. Instead of having dedicated rooms for activities like an office or workout room, it’s better to design as many rooms as possible and transform them as needed. That way,You always have plenty of rooms that can be used as other rooms.

Give enough space

When multiple generations live under the same roof, you need to provide everyone with enough space and privacy. How do you make sure no one gets invaded? You will need to make sure that there is at least one private living space for each generation in a home.

Then, Let's say your parents live with you and your children. Multi-generational homes that include a family room, study and playroom mean everyone has a little room to breathe and a place to relax.

Use every inch

With several families living in the same house, every square foot is valuable. You need to be creative with all the spaces in your home to make it much more comfortable. Consider transforming some of the lesser-used areas of your home, such as the attic, basement, or garage.

Rethink the purpose of each room and make storage spaces more comfortable for everyone. You can always find other places to store your stuff, and everyone who can afford more space will be happier.

Provide independent entries

Another design consideration in multigenerational homes is how each generation will actually be in the home. If there is not a lot of overlap in schedules (night owls stay late for school, early risers stay late for school), it may be better to design separate entrances.

This not only reduces traffic and chaos throughout the day, but can also provide your family with a sense of autonomy. Of course, living together guarantees quality over time. But being able to separate some of what comes and goes can help each generation feel more independent.

With these tips and personalized spaces for each, you will realize that living together in a house can even be a benefit. You can share expenses and spend quality time together every day, which is the greatest treasure you can have in a house in the long run. Enjoy family life together!