It may come as no surprise that multigenerational living is gaining popularity as families reimagine their long-term needs and goals, whether it’s creating space for live-in grandparents or making sure the kids have privacy and flexibility in their early adult years. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to successful multigenerational living, so families need to explore their options and find the house plan that helps them thrive. Thoughtful multigenerational home design can help maximize space, comfort, and enjoyment for those living under one roof.
Having more people under the same roof means one thing: You need enough space for everyone to live comfortably. And since a multigenerational living arrangement involves accommodating people at different life stages, it’s important to have enough bedrooms, bathrooms, and communal space for the right balance of togetherness and independence.
A purpose-built multigenerational house plan eliminates the need to build an addition or convert another space. Custom building allows you to determine which arrangement works best for your needs while ensuring the home design complies with local building codes and regulations. Some homeowners choose to incorporate a second owner’s retreat or an attached apartment with its own entrance while others opt for a standalone structure.
Here’s what families need to consider when finalizing their multigenerational housing plans.
The kitchen is often the most social part of the home, and even more so in multigenerational households. Your new kitchen should have ample space for people to work together and eat, and the cabinetry and appliances should be easy to use. A dine-in island is the perfect way to create space for casual meals or a spot for kids to do homework while parents and grandparents cook together.
If your house plan includes a complete apartment, Casita or separate bonus flex room, a kitchenette is the perfect way for your loved ones to prepare snacks or light meals in a more private setting. The kitchenette might not need a full range and oven, but there should be enough space for an apartment-scale refrigerator, a sink, and small countertop appliances, like a microwave, coffee maker, and two-burner cooktop.
Safe, accessible bathrooms are crucial for multigenerational living, especially if someone in the family has mobility challenges. Getting in and out of bathtubs and accessing toilets may require grab bars for safety, and that often means bathrooms need to be large enough to accommodate these fixtures and allow space for comfortable turning and repositioning. Alternatively, a standing or roll-in shower can be a smart investment for a senior’s primary bathroom.
Accessibility guidelines state that all activities of daily living should be feasible on a single level of the house, so there should be a full bathroom on the ground floor. If you also have a half bath on that floor, perhaps connected to one of the main family spaces, make sure it’s designed with comfort and accessibility in mind as well.
Multi-level homes may have more space for multigenerational living, but this can come with its own set of caveats. Stairs can present a challenge for family members with mobility issues, but that doesn’t mean you’re limited to single-level floor plans. Staircases can be made safer and more accessible with careful planning. Each step should be uniform for stability with a tread that is 11 to 13 inches deep and a riser that is no more than 7.5 inches high. Long flights of stairs can be more hazardous, so make sure any landings have enough room to make a complete turn while holding a secure handrail.
Safety is paramount in multigenerational living arrangements, and lighting plays a big role. In addition to task and ambient lighting, it’s important to think about more targeted applications throughout the house. LED lighting strips can make stairways, bathrooms, and the spaces under cabinets more visible and accessible and help prevent accidents and falls. Even the lighting fixtures you choose can make a difference. Instead of small switches or sliders with small knobs, look for rocker switches that have a large, flat panel that clicks into place.
Indoor noise level isn’t typically a factor families consider when planning a new home, but it’s an important balance with multiple generations under one roof. Consider each family member’s comfort level: Who likes to have quiet time to unwind, and where do they like to spend that time? How do the kids like to play when they’re inside? Do teens and working adults need a study space or home office?
Keeping bedrooms separate from common areas is a key component of thoughtful multigenerational home design. If your home has multiple entry points—which can be beneficial when teens and adults arrive home late in the evenings—consider where they’re located in relation to the bedrooms as well to prevent nighttime disturbances.
Personal styles are bound to vary across generations, so focus on a timeless interior design with neutral walls and furniture and incorporate color and personality through artwork and accessories. Including every member of the family in the design process can promote a sense of unity and ownership of the space.
Remember that attached mother-in-law suites and apartments aren’t the only options for multigenerational living. Backyard Casitas are completely separate from the main house, and decorating can be a fun way to bond with loved ones while celebrating their unique style.
There are many benefits to multigenerational living for modern families. Paying close attention to a home’s floorplan, decor, safety, and privacy measures can make a significant difference in how well families adapt to this arrangement.
About Schumacher Homes
Schumacher Homes, based in Canton, Ohio, is America’s largest custom homebuilder, with operations in 26 locations in 12 states across the country. The National Housing Quality award-winning company has built over 20,000 homes, customized to fit each family’s lifestyle, since its founding by Paul Schumacher in 1992. Schumacher Homes takes each customer’s inspiration and gives it a home. Each Schumacher Homes location includes a one-stop shopping design studio and model homes displaying the latest in architectural and product trends.