Multigenerational Home | Décor & Design

The concept of the multigenerational home has become increasingly popular in residential home design. According to Pew Research, 59.7 million Americans live in multigenerational households as of March 2021. This number expresses a steep incline over the past 5 decades with no signs of slowing down. As the baby boomer generation reaches their seventies, there is a growing focus on creating living arrangements that accommodate the needs of multiple generations.

This trend has caught the attention of the interior design industry, which is now incorporating features and designs that cater to multigenerational living.

What is a Multigenerational Home?

A multigenerational home is a living arrangement that accommodates family members of different ages, allowing them to live together while maintaining their independence. This type of home may require modifications to accommodate the needs of older family members, such as wider hallways or accessible showers.

Multigenerational living can provide a solution for aging in place, allowing older family members to receive support from their children and grandchildren while still having their own defined living areas. It promotes a sense of shared responsibility and allows for a more gradual transition as family members age.

Living in a multigenerational home requires clear communication and respect for each other’s cultures and traditions. To make it work, it’s important to have open and honest conversations about expectations and responsibilities. This will help prevent conflicts and misunderstandings.

Again, it’s crucial to respect the unique lifestyles and traditions of each generation in the home. While everyone may have different interests, finding activities that can be enjoyed together, such as watching movies or playing games, can help foster a sense of unity.

When considering if living in a multigenerational home will work for your family it is essential to consider and understand the potential difficulties that may arise before committing to this living arrangement. It is important to remember that things may not always go according to plan, and being flexible and adaptable is key to maintaining harmony in a multigenerational home.

What are the Pros & Cons of a Multigenerational Home?

Multigenerational Home Advantages

Living in a multigenerational home offers numerous benefits, including increased affordability. With multiple families sharing the same space, expenses such as mortgage, utilities, and groceries can be divided, resulting in lower costs for everyone. This financial relief allows for more savings, debt repayment, and the pursuit of personal goals and dreams. Additionally, the reduced financial stress benefits everyone in the household, including children, creating a more stable and harmonious environment.

Another advantage of multigenerational living is the sense of social support and connection it provides. Growing up in a multigenerational household has been linked to higher levels of cognition and better mental health. For elderly members, being surrounded by family and actively participating in household activities can help combat loneliness, stimulate the mind, and prevent cognitive decline and conditions like depression. The intergenerational interactions and sense of purpose contribute to overall well-being and quality of life.

Furthermore, multigenerational homes often facilitate caregiving arrangements, with older adults taking care of young children and vice versa. This mutual support system not only eases the burden of childcare for parents but also allows grandparents to play an active role in their grandchildren’s lives. The bonds formed within a multigenerational household create a strong sense of family unity and provide a nurturing environment for all generations involved.

Pros of multigenerational living:

• Financial benefits: Sharing a home can help to reduce costs, such as housing, food, and utilities. Lowering living expenses by splitting the cost of bills, taxes, and other household expenses is a major advantage.
• Caregiving: Multigenerational homes can provide a built-in support system for caregiving, especially for older adults or those with disabilities.
• Cultural enrichment: Living with multiple generations can help to preserve family traditions and culture.
• Increased social interaction: Multigenerational homes can provide opportunities for more social interaction, which can be beneficial for physical and mental health.
• Childcare: Grandparents could help with younger children as adults work from home.
• More Opportunity: Allows family members to pursue education or training while saving money for the future. Family members should be open with their future plans so that everyone knows what to expect.

Disadvantages of a Multigenerational Home

While there are many benefits to living in a multigenerational home, such as shared responsibilities and support, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One of the main concerns is a lack of privacy, which can lead to family conflicts and caregiver burnout. Living in close quarters with multiple generations can increase the likelihood of mental stress and burnout for everyone involved. It’s important to be mindful of the little things, like cleaning up after yourself and asking before borrowing someone else’s belongings. Respecting boundaries and accepting others’ decisions gracefully can help maintain a harmonious living environment.

Cons of multigenerational living:

• Privacy: Sharing a home can mean giving up some privacy.
• Conflict: Living with multiple generations can also lead to conflict, especially if there are different expectations or values.
• Noise: Multiple people living in one home can mean more noise, which can be a problem for some people.
• Space: Multigenerational homes may need to be larger to accommodate everyone’s needs. The cost associated with renovating or reconfiguring existing spaces can be costly.
• Maintenance: More people generally means more cleaning and maintenance. The more people – the more your home’s appliances, lights, plumbing, etc. get used. Have a maintenance plan and stick to it. Delegate upkeep and any associated expenses as needed.

Décor, Design, and Adaptation in Multi-Gen Homes

A multigenerational home is often designed to accommodate multiple generations of a family living under one roof. These homes can have separate living areas, multiple kitchens, and private entrances to ensure privacy for each family unit. Additionally, they may feature spacious common areas such as great rooms, open kitchens, and outdoor living spaces to promote togetherness and shared experiences.

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However, if your current home lacks certain amenities for multigenerational living, don’t worry. With the right design or modifications, you can create a safe and comfortable living space for everyone. This type of living arrangement can include grandparents, parents, and children all sharing the same living space. Therefore, considerations for renovations and redecorating may be necessary to accommodate the needs of multiple generations living under one roof.

Multigenerational homes are becoming increasingly popular, and with that comes a focus on incorporating Biophilic design principles. These principles prioritize creating spaces that are filled with plants and establish a visual connection with nature, resulting in calming environments.

Design experts have identified that the desire for more natural light and usable outdoor spaces are the most important and essential features for today’s multigenerational homeowners. Home decor provides an opportunity to bring the generations together in a harmonious multigenerational home design incorporating elements that connect with nature, such as fresh air, natural light, and greenery.

Home decor and design considerations:

• When decorating a multigenerational home, it is important to consider the needs of everyone who will be living there.
• For example, if there are young children in the home, it is important to have child-proofed areas.
• If there are older adults in the home, it is essential to have accessible features, such as grab bars in the bathroom and ramps.
• Creating common areas where everyone can gather and socialize is also important. This could be a living room, kitchen, and dining room. These areas should be free of personal items and above all comfortable and accessible to everyone.
• Finally, creating private spaces for everyone, such as bedrooms and access to bathrooms is desirable.

Creating a harmonious multigenerational home design involves incorporating elements that connect with nature, such as fresh air, natural light, and greenery. By utilizing the right home decor, various areas within the home can be transformed into peaceful and relaxing spaces. This can be achieved using colors, patterns, textures, and lighting that prioritize the connection with nature.

In a multigenerational setting, where the health and comfort of home dwellers are paramount, home interior designs that promote this connection with nature are particularly important. As people become more conscious of wellness and energy usage in their homes, as well as the psychological impact of their surroundings, incorporating nature into the design becomes increasingly significant.

Smart Home Features

Multi-generational homes are becoming increasingly popular as families seek to accommodate multiple generations under one roof. With the advancements in smart home technologies, they can provide a range of benefits for all occupants. Smart devices can enhance security, convenience, energy efficiency, and overall comfort.

They can also assist in aging in place, allowing individuals to maintain their independence and receive the necessary support. For example, smart devices can be programmed to remind users to eat or take medications, enable remote interaction with family or caregivers, and provide notifications in case of emergencies. Additionally, voice-activated assistance and visual aids can further enhance the living experience for individuals with specific needs, such as the blind or hearing impaired.

Smart homes can benefit everyone in the home and make days go smoother by staying organized and informed through technology. They are especially beneficial in a multi-gen home for every generation, from babies to elders. Set reminders for home maintenance, cleaning, turning appliances off and on, locking and unlocking doors, and setting alarms among many other functions.

Having a smart device in each bedroom as well as common spaces makes it easy to communicate without going up and down stairs. Smart Home Technology is considered a home design element. Most devices take up minimal space as well as being slim and attractive. Many new homes come with smart home technology installed and can be upgraded to any level needed.

Bedrooms and Bathrooms

When designing a multigenerational home, it is important to consider the needs of older family members. The bathroom should be spacious enough to accommodate someone who may require assistance with bathing. Additionally, having a vanity surface that is large and free of cabinets below can be beneficial for accessibility purposes.

Many older homes have only one bathroom and in that case, everyone should have a schedule for bathing and preparing for work or school.

Of course, at least two bathrooms would be desirable. A multigenerational home can also include ensuite bathrooms. These bathrooms are either directly connected to the bedrooms or are a part of the bedroom itself. This provides not only privacy but also safety, especially for older family members who may have difficulty navigating long hallways at night. Additionally, connecting upstairs bedrooms with Jack and Jill bathrooms can help save space and add flexibility to the layout of the home.

To accommodate everyone’s needs, homes with flex rooms and bonus rooms can be utilized to create additional bedrooms. It is important to ensure these rooms have proper windows for safety. While not every spare room may be suitable for conversion into a bedroom, there are still ways to maximize the space and make it functional for the family. Furthermore, allowing each family member to decorate their own bedroom according to their preferences can contribute to a sense of individuality and happiness within the multigenerational home.

For homes with a two-story floor plan, it can be beneficial to have the bedrooms for older residents located on the main floor, while the bedrooms for other family members are on the upper floor. This arrangement creates a natural separation between generations, allowing for privacy and convenience.

Additionally, an existing contemporary bedroom could be updated to include a small powder room and a hidden or open tub, providing convenience and privacy. If space is limited, a room divider, glass, or a curtain can be used to separate these areas if desired.

Doorways and Hallways

Creating a multigenerational home involves making certain modifications to ensure accessibility and safety for people of all ages. One suggestion is to install French or pocket doors to make bedrooms, doorways, and hallways more accessible. Sliding barns doors work great as they come in all styles and colors. Another idea is to use contrasting paint colors for the walls versus areas that need to be highlighted and made more visible such as staircases.

It is important to provide adequate lighting for older adults, as they require more light than younger individuals. Adding lamps, light fixtures, and LED lights can help increase brightness throughout the home. Installing automatic timers for lights along poorly lit hallways and stairs can ensure they activate when it gets dark.

Kitchens

A multigenerational kitchen is a kitchen that is designed to accommodate and bring together multiple generations of a family. It is a space that allows for easy and enjoyable cooking experiences for everyone, from grandparents to grandchildren. Renovating a kitchen with a multigenerational focus can include features such as accessible countertops and appliances, ample seating and gathering areas, and storage solutions that cater to the needs of different age groups.

In the kitchen, renovations can be made to ensure that everyone can safely prepare food, regardless of their height. This can be achieved by positioning countertops at different heights throughout the kitchen. Additionally, adding a family communication center, such as a desk with a large dry-erase whiteboard, can help keep everyone in the loop by providing a space to share schedules and reminders. Electronic devices such as Amazon Echo devices or Google Nest can also be beneficial. They can broadcast to other areas of the home such as a bedroom to remind others of homework, appointments, etc.

Open Concept Pros and Cons

Open Concept Pros

When designing a multigenerational home, it is important to consider accessibility for all residents, including older family members. Even if they are currently able to move around easily, it is wise to plan for any future mobility challenges. Incorporating wheelchair accessibility into the design ensures that older residents will always feel comfortable and included. Open-concept layouts are also beneficial for easy navigation throughout the home.

Open Concept Cons

Lack of privacy is a major con when dealing with an open-concept living area. Living in a multigenerational home can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to have some privacy and personal space. Older homes with smaller, more defined rooms can be better suited for this living arrangement.

Having private spaces can help reduce tension and provide areas for family members to work or study from home. If your home has an open floor plan, you can create more private areas by adding pocket doors or thick draperies to separate spaces when needed. These additions can also help reduce noise, which can be beneficial when multiple generations are living under one roof.

Outdoor Spaces

A multi-generational home offers the opportunity for families to live together under one roof while still having the option for separate living spaces. Whether you choose to have a common living room or separate living areas, the backyard can be a shared space for everyone to enjoy. Having a patio or deck provides the perfect setting for barbecues and outdoor gatherings, allowing family members to spend quality time together while enjoying each other’s company.

Storage

If your outdoor space allows room consider a storage area separate from the home which allows more space to tuck away unused items and frees up space inside the home.

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Style and Interior Design

When multiple generations live together in a multigenerational home, it’s important to consider everyone’s preferences and belongings. When an adult child or aging parent moves into a multigenerational home, it’s likely that they will bring along a lot of personal belongings. While it may be necessary to ask everyone to downsize their possessions, it’s also important to find a way to incorporate some of their favorite memorabilia or furniture into the new living arrangements. This can help create a sense of familiarity and comfort for everyone in the household.

While decorating common areas in a neutral way that pleases everyone, allow each family member to decorate their own bedroom according to their personal taste. Additionally, keep in mind that older family members may have sentimental attachments to certain items, so it’s important to incorporate their favorite memorabilia or furniture into the new living arrangements. Incorporating personal photos is especially important for older family members, as it helps them feel surrounded by familiar things.

To bring life to the decor, consider adding unexpected touches to each room, such as a large wall art print in the kitchen or a whimsical oversized wall art drawing in the nursery. By infusing the process with joy and creativity, you can turn an empty house into a beautiful and lively home that the entire family can enjoy for years to come.

Let There Be Light

Multigenerational homes are becoming increasingly popular as more families choose to live together under one roof. This shift in housing trends brings about a need for innovative design considerations. One key aspect is maximizing natural light, which helps create a sense of spaciousness and connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Large windows, patio doors, and glass features facilitate the flow between the interior and exterior, allowing for seamless integration of the two.

This trend towards hybrid homes not only addresses the need for multi-use spaces but also caters to the growing number of families with different schedules and requirements. Additionally, as more elders choose to age at home and first-time homebuyers face challenges in the housing market, the demand for multigenerational homes continues to rise. As a result, designers are focusing on reclaiming the backyard and creating a unified space that combines the indoors and outdoors.

When decorating a multigenerational home, it’s essential to consider ways to bring additional light into a room. Adding windows or skylights can instantly brighten up a dark or dull space. During the renovation or attic conversion process, carefully consider the size and placement of windows. While the shape of the roof may dictate the position of the windows, skylights can be easily installed in both flat and pitched roofs. Skylights can add a stylish touch while allowing ample natural light to flood the room.

Converting or Adding Additional Spaces

To maximize space and create a comfortable living environment, it is important to think creatively and utilize every square foot of the home. Consider converting underutilized areas such as the attic, basement, or garage into functional living spaces. Additionally, reevaluate the purpose of each room and transform storage areas into cozy living spaces. For example, transforming a garage into a hangout space for kids and teens allows them to have fun and make noise without disturbing older family members who may be napping.

Another way to create additional living space in a multigenerational home is by converting the garage into a studio or granny flat. This can provide a separate living area with its own bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette.

A multi-generational home offers the opportunity to create separate living spaces within the same house. One option is to convert the basement into an apartment-style dwelling or in-law suite. With utility hookups already in place, it is possible to add a full bathroom and small kitchenette, along with a bedroom and walk-in closet, creating a private and self-contained living area. This allows for greater privacy and independence while still being part of the same household.

Other suggestions include utilizing a loft or attic space as a playroom, hangout area, or recreational space for family members to relax and enjoy life. You could even reconfigure the space if the footprint and square footage are workable, with a portion of the loft space serving as an enclosed small bedroom and utilizing the remaining space as an office or TV room.

If you are considering making changes to your home to accommodate multiple generations living together, it is important to consult with your local building and code department. Any permanent changes to the layout or structure would be considered “reconfigured space.” This could include something as simple as adding a door. It is always best to ensure that any modifications comply with local regulations and safety standards.

Other options for adding space to your current home could include:

• Add a detached accessory dwelling, such as a Casita or tiny home.
• Build an addition with its own entrance. Having a separate suite can give grandparents a welcome break from young grandchildren.
• To ensure privacy and convenience for everyone, one effective solution is to incorporate multiple entrances into the design. For example, adding a side door on the opposite side of the house from the main entrance can reduce traffic and provide a separate access point for certain family members.
• Creating well-lit and inviting pathways for home entrances can enhance their function, safety, and appeal.

Organization Considerations

Living in a multigenerational home can be a wonderful experience, but it can also come with its challenges. One of the key aspects of making multigenerational living work for your family is to maximize the available space. Start by decluttering and organizing all areas of the house, including closets, pantries, and medicine cabinets. Get rid of expired food, damaged clothing, and any belongings that are no longer needed. Consider donating items to local organizations or hosting a yard sale to make some extra money.

After decluttering your home, it’s time to organize your belongings. Create designated storage areas for important items like medications, bills, and reading glasses. Use chalkboard stickers to label cabinets, drawers, and containers to easily find what you need. For added efficiency, consider color-coding different areas of your home and scheduling regular cleaning and organizing sessions. Multifunctional furniture and storage solutions can help you maximize your space, and don’t forget to look upward to take advantage of your vertical square footage.

Additional steps to keep everyone organized and on the same page include:

• Designate separate storage areas by creating personal cabinet space and storage bins for each member of the household in common areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.
• Keep a running shopping list for the household in a designated common area. It could be beneficial to assign individual purchases of everyday household items such as toilet paper, paper towels, and other household consumables to various members of the household. An alternative would be to have a common money kitty that household members contribute to in order to take care of these types of expenses.
• If bathroom access is an issue create a schedule for the household designating shower times and getting ready for work, school, etc.
• If storage space in the bathroom is an issue, then each individual can have a personal caddy for their sundries and store it in their bedroom until needed.

• Do the same with the laundry. Perhaps scheduling weekends for those whose days are spent away from home and utilizing weekdays for others to complete laundry.
• Again, color coding or personal caddies come in handy for laundry baskets, detergents, and other laundry items as needed.
• Encourage and designate fun activities such as hosting a fun game night, a family food theme day, or a family vacation. Try to schedule at least one family meal or get-together once a week or if scheduling is a problem, then at least once a month. Doing things together boosts bonding.

General Safety Conditions for a Multigenerational Home

Take time to discuss and access special safety needs and concerns. Ensure safe storage of disinfectants, including storing cleaning products securely away from children. Elders may need special consideration as well as children. Place bumper guards on sharp furniture, and repair loose carpets. Remove any loose area rugs or other items that may be a hazard. It is also crucial to be mindful of cords that may pose tripping hazards. Place locks on all exterior doors, smoke, and carbon monoxide detectors throughout the house, and surveillance cameras at key entry points. Many homes also lack basic fire protection. Post your family’s fire safety plan in a central location on all floors of the home.

Living in a multigenerational home can be challenging, but with some organization and flexibility, it can also be a rewarding experience. It’s important to have systems in place to ensure that everyone’s needs are met and that the home runs smoothly as well as safely. This may involve creating schedules, establishing clear communication channels, and finding ways to accommodate different routines and preferences. By being proactive and adaptable, you can create a harmonious living environment for everyone in your household.

Homeowner Legal and Insurance Considerations

As the homeowner, you should be aware of each person in the household’s goals and long-term plans. As a homeowner this allows you to prepare for the future. This includes legal considerations such as taxes and how the estate is structured. Each family situation is unique. If you are unsure of the best structure for your situation consult an attorney.

If you have senior parents or adult children living with you in your home, it’s important to inform your insurance company. Generally, they will be covered under your policy as long as they are members of your family. However, their presence may affect the risks associated with your insurance policy. It’s also worth noting that homeowners insurance policies can vary from state to state, so it’s a good idea to review your coverage and any potential changes with your insurance agent.

In Conclusion, Multigenerational Home

In conclusion, living in a multigenerational home requires common sense and respect for each other’s space and boundaries. Treat your family members as you would any other adult housemate by being considerate and mindful of your actions. Simple things like cleaning up after yourself, taking out the trash, and asking before borrowing something can go a long way in maintaining a harmonious living environment. It’s important to respect family values and rules, such as no phones at the table, and to set realistic expectations together. Discuss and divide daily chores and financial responsibilities so that everyone is on the same page. Additionally, it’s crucial to support and encourage caregivers in the family by giving them opportunities to relax and have fun.

Read more about organizing your home here.

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[SOURCES]

Pew Research Center

‘The rise of multi-generational households’

THE NEW BUSINESS OF GROWING OLD

Kitchen and Bath Design

Legal Considerations

National Fire Protection Association

Home Insurance Guide