How to Design A House for More Than One Generation

Thanks to the economic downturn, it’s become a lot more common to have 2, sometimes 3 generations living in the same home. In some cases it’s the adult child who comes home to live with parents in an effort to save money during a career change/challenge. Other times it’s a decision to keep elderly parents nearby – either as a cost cutting move or because the parent doesn’t want to move to an assisted living facility. Occasionally, all 3 generations are living under the same roof.

Fortunately, builders and architects are taking note of this trend, and designing some helpful solutions to its many challenges. Professional Builder ran a recent article, “Design Trends in Multi-Generational Housing” that should be required reading if your family is considering such a move.

Some of the trends are fairly obvious – first floor master bedrooms – an idea that everyone over 50 should consider. Or, a separate apartment within the home that could become a rental unit down the road. But other ideas, such as breakfast kitchens within bedroom suites, break new ground in allowing more privacy within cramped quarters.

Here are their 7 design trends in multi-generational housing:

* First-floor master suites and dual masters
* Lower-level living areas
* Living space above the garage or in an extra garage bay
* Separate entrances
* Second kitchens
* Private spaces for each generation
* Rental apartments within single-family homes

For more details be sure to check out the Professional Builder article.

For further reference:
The Easier Way to Add an Accessory Dwelling

What do you think?
Are you planning on living with more than 1 generation, or are you already? What kind of issues or solutions are you seeing? Let us know your thoughts in the Comments section below