Accommodating Multi-Generational Living in Home Design

How to Build a Multi-Generational Home

Whether it’s part of your culture or a desire to keep aging parents close, multi-generational living is on the rise in Australia. In fact, one in Five Australians live in multi-generational households, which begs the question: how can homes better accommodate this way of living?

What is multi-generational living?

Multi-generational living is defined as a household with three or more generations living together. Typically, this refers to grandparents, parents, and children who are related. Multi-generational living is common in various countries and cultures, and this number is increasing in Australia due to its emotional and financial benefits. As a result, many construction companies now provide off-the-plan designs specifically tailored to different generations living under the same roof.

Multiple master suites

As much as you love your family, everyone needs their own space. Incorporating two or more master suites at opposite ends of the house offers more privacy and a better sense of togetherness in communal areas.

Multiple living spaces

To avoid overstimulating noise and fighting over the TV remote, it’s handy to have multiple living spaces for different uses. Consider a reading nook, kids’ playroom, outdoor alfresco, or movie theatre in addition to the lounge room.

Additional storage space

More people means more clothing, toys, and knick-knacks. Having ample storage space throughout the home, such as built-in or walk-in wardrobes, a butler’s pantry, and additional storage cupboards keeps clutter at bay.

 Accessibility

If living with aging family members, accessibility should be one of your top priorities. Is the entry step-free? Would a seat in the shower be helpful? Is the master suite for older family members better suited on the ground floor? All of these are important to ensure the future comfort of your family.

Display homes

Once you have a rough idea of what you’d like in the floorplan, consider touring a display home of interest before committing to the build. This lets you genuinely experience the design and hear the opinions from the rest of your family, too.

Prioritising your family’s needs and striking a balance between togetherness and privacy holds the key to creating a beautiful multi-generational home. Take this into account and you’ll have an enjoyable home not only now, but for many generations to come.