Menu
We speak about the term “Multigenerational Living” so how does that relate to building a new home? It is defined as more than two generations living under the same roof. Each generation however, introduces a new set of potential complications which must be addressed for a Multigenerational household to function and thrive.
Throughout the building process North Homes can help make the interior and exterior building areas more accommodating for mutigenerational housing.
The most common multigenerational household arrangement consists of three generations – typically one or more working-age adults, one or more of their children (who may also be adults), and either aging parent(s) or grandchildren.
There are also growing numbers of grand families – that is, households headed by an older individual or couple who live with grandchildren under age 18.
Most two-generation households consist of parent(s) and child(ren) under the ages of 18 to 22. However, households with “boomerangs” are on the rise – grown children who because of unemployment, underemployment or other reasons return to their childhood household.
Once a rarity except in some lower-income communities, the four- or even five-generation household – parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, adult children, their children is more commonplace and socioeconomically significant.
As with any situation, there are challenges that often need to be addressed. It may take many months for some individuals to adjust to the changed lifestyle while at the same time trying to find a comfortable level of involvement in each other’s lives. Members of the middle generation may feel stress balancing the needs of their parents and children. Many times, there are renovations necessary to accommodate the physical needs of all family members such as a ramp for wheelchairs or strollers and child-proofed rooms. Providing privacy for all household members also may be challenging.
Families can be creative with building a new home by making age-integrated areas. You can incorporate some of the “Aging in place” and “ADA” concepts to achieve the perfect home for all parties.
Private spaces can include entrances, living areas, kitchens, dining areas, and even separate home offices.
Laundry rooms with multiple entrances – in a “buddy” style – can allow extended stay guests direct access to the washer and dryer.
Multigenerational designs can emphasize space separation with a basement and/or second floor suite.
Everyone needs to be informed and to give input into the arrangements. No one person should be responsible for everything.
so people understand how they fit into the family. Make sure adult siblings know you expect them to be involved in your parents’ care.
Give your kids responsibilities around the house. Even young children can bring a blanket or a glass of water to the person needing care and doing something helpful gives them a sense of inclusion. The same goes for the seniors in your family. Let them use their talents and knowledge to help out where they can. Most people need to feel needed.
Routines, rituals and traditions draw everyone closer. Plan a family movie or game night. Take a walk together. Have Sunday family dinners.
Routines, rituals and traditions draw everyone closer. Plan a family movie or game night. Take a walk together. Have Sunday family dinnersRecognize the importance of “my time” and “our time.” Try to take everyone’s needs into account.
Shared space should have materials that are inviting for all ages (family photo albums, for example). Set aside private space for each member of the household.
North Custom Homes is a central Indiana custom home builder that was established with one thing in mind, to create a custom home building company with a genuine commitment to the customer, strict attention to a client’s needs, and a clear focus on quality.
Boone
Clinton
Hamilton
Hancock
Hendricks
Johnson
Madison
Marion
Montgomery
Morgan
Putnam
Tippecanoe
Tipton