living room with a large entertainment center and glass doors

Design Notes

DESIGNING A MULTIGENERATIONAL HOME

Multigenerational homes are on the rise and, more than likely, here to stay, as many adult children begin to take on responsibility for caring for their parents while still raising their children. This leads to a unique home design that allows each generation to have a space of their own, where they can operate independently yet stay connected, especially when they need help or just want to socialize. The key to this type of design is intention because there needs to be careful consideration of each area of the home, mainly its function and purpose. A good, intentional design will enable you to create a multigenerational home ideally suited to everyone’s needs.

Flexible Bedroom Design

Bedrooms are an essential element in any home design as they provide each family member with a space to call their own; it is their area where they can go to relax and be surrounded by what matters to them. While many floor plans offer bonus areas such as an additional family room or even a home office, consider making them into bedrooms first, since there are specific regulations that govern a room being called a bedroom versus just a spare room. Even if you decide not to use it as a bedroom, you can always switch to a spare room instead, but it is not so easy to do it the other way around. You can never have too many bedrooms since they can be easily converted into something useful, such as a craft room or home office, later.

Basement Potential

A basement is often the most overlooked area in the home and has the greatest potential to maximize space. The possibilities are endless in a finished basement. One great idea, and one that is popular, is to transform it into a second living space, including a kitchen and living room. This creates an area for the grandparents to live independently, yet still be close enough to you if they need anything. This renovation will also increase the value of your home, especially for those who need multigenerational accommodations or want a space they can rent out to help offset the mortgage payments. If you have a basement that is not finished, consider completing it and turning it into a livable space that can serve multiple purposes for your family.

entertainment center with a fireplace and living room