BackMulti-Generational Living Requires Space and Expert Design05/02/24

For the first time since the 1950s, more extended families are seeking dual-living floor plans and building in-law suites to allow for two, three or more generations to reside in one home, or at least reside on a single piece of property. Cited from pewresearch.org, according to an analysis of census data from 1971-2021, the number of people living in multigenerational family households quadrupled during that time period, reaching 59.7 million in March 2021. The share more than doubled as well, to 18% of the U.S. population.

This type of cohabitation can be for consistent short-term visits or more long-term, permanent situations. The reasons vary. Often, the move can provide a consistent caregiver to a young child, or a loved one can receive home care from a family member. It is also a great fiscal solution, by sharing expenses for utilities to a mortgage to even vehicles.

“Human beings have always been dependent on extended family, and we’re starting to get back to that,” says John Graham, author of All in the Family: A Practical Guide to Successful Multigenerational Living. “It’s something that we sort of lost over the past 50 years.”

Our solutions for aging in place modifications make it possible for your loved ones to live safely and comfortably for years to come, by combining affordable remodeling services with the expertise of health care professionals. These trusted aging-in-place and universal design experts understand the benefits of:

Wider doorways/hallways and level flooring.
Bathroom assistive devices.
Better functioning appliances and kitchen cabinetry.

Unlike the old school thought process, aging in place modifications aren’t bulky or unattractive. There are many modifications that homeowners of all ages are incorporating for safety and for thinking ahead, even if they’re not in the older population. The zero-entry shower, grip bars, and even the wider door openings all adhere to the contemporary design vibes that are happening in 2024 and beyond.

Remodel for Life
When it comes to multi-generational living, the main concern is allowing enough space to respect privacy and independence. This can be accomplished by converting a pool house or garage into an extended living space, or by adding an apartment onto the main house, with:

A spacious first-floor bedroom.
An additional master bathroom.
A small kitchenette.
A separate living area.

The next concern is ensuring an addition will match your existing exterior esthetic, and that any interior changes create an easy flow, in order to retain a high resale value. Essentially, these improvements should be a redesign, not a retrofit.

Before making any quick decisions, Multi-Generational Living Requires Space and Expert Design. It is best for the entire family to understand all of the options. An aging in place remodeling and renovating project can take weeks to plan, but a smart approach will save time and money in the end. Our experts at Wineteer Construction will help you determine the design, flow, budget, timeline, and design selections you can bring to your new space. We will also investigate any property rules for your area and neighborhood to ensure we are compliant with codes.

Contact Wineteer Construction for your aging in place modifications to fit the needs of your growing (multi-generational) household. We are here to make it easy!