According to Generations United, 66.7 million adults ages 18+ in the United States, more than one in four Americans, live in a multigenerational household. The typical make up of a multigeneration family is grandparents, parents, and children, but it can also include aunts and uncles along with cousins.
Having a larger number of people within the home has benefits, including saving money, having the ability to provide in-home care to family members, and sharing quality time with loved ones.
Balsitis Contracting believes the key to making a multigenerational home work is developing spaces that offer accessibility, comfort, and privacy. The following suggestions focus on the design aspects to address when creating a home to accommodate different generations.
Accessible Design
A home that includes elderly inhabitants requires a layout to meet the needs of those who currently use or in the future may need a wheelchair or walker, so an open concept offers an ideal manner in which to easily move from one room to another. We encourage our clients to plan ahead with aging in mind so it will not be necessary to make updates a few years after building or renovating. This can also include making sure to have sufficient lighting, height adjustable furniture, wider doorways, and spacious hallways.
Bedrooms on Multiple Floors
When determining the locations for bedrooms within multigenerational homes, it is best to have bedrooms on both the main floor and second-floor, with the lower level an option for children’s bedrooms. Having bedrooms on the first floor for older family members is not only a benefit to assist those aging in place, but it will provide privacy for the different generations.
Individual Bathrooms
It is best that each generation has a bathroom it can claim as its own, with the idea of designing an ensuite (a bedroom that has a bathroom attached to it) being a popular way to achieve this objective. Sharing a bathroom can present challenges, so having a separate bathroom for each generation alleviates potential issues.
Dual Purpose Spaces
When designing a bedroom space, which will require windows and closets for storage, it is likely that it can also be used for a different purpose if not needed for sleeping quarters, with the ability to be converted when necessary. This can include an arts & crafts room, office, TV room, and an exercise space. Designing the room in this manner enables you to have sufficient bedroom space that offers flexibility.
Individual Living Spaces
It is important that each generation has a dedicated living area to spend time and relax, while also having a space for all to gather together. Creating well-defined spaces is a great way for everyone to have privacy. This could feature a den for grandparents, a family room for the parents, and a playroom for the kids. The living room can then be designated as the space for all to gather to enjoy family time.
Maximum Utilization
With several people of differing ages living in the same home, it is important to use all parts of the dwelling to create the desired comfort level. This can include using the basement, attic, or space above the garage for living areas rather than storage.
Separate Entrances
In an effort to provide a feeling of independence, consideration can be given to the generations having separate entrances to the home. Access to the home can be made through the front and back door as well as through the door in the garage.
Whether designing a custom home, adding on, or renovating an existing space, flexibility is a key component of the process. When multiple generations share a home, it is important to communicate and be open to change to ensure a comfortable environment. By using the ideas outlined, disagreements can be avoided and a multigenerational home filled with love created.
Call Balsitis Contracting at 262-203-3952, e-mail info@balsitiscontracting.com, or complete our online form to begin the process of creating the space to meet your family’s needs.