Multi generational homes - Everything you need to know.
Multi generational living
Multigenerational living arrangements — where several generations of a family live under one roof — have been popular in countries worldwide for millennia. It's only in recent times that the lifestyle has been gaining traction among Aussie households.
Due to housing affordability and changing family values, demand for this way of living has risen significantly over the last five years. It's becoming more and more common for adult children to stay in their family home for longer and for those wanting elderly family members to live at home rather than in an aged care facility. We often see three generations or more living under one roof. It's a common occurrence these days and we have a range of options to make it a reality for you. Smarter living for families of all shapes and sizes; discover how to maximise your new home with dual living designs that can future-proof and add more value to your life and your block.
Multi generational home features
- Multiple living rooms and sitting areas
- Dual ovens and butler's pantries
- Plenty of bathrooms, powder rooms, and ensuites for all adult bedrooms
- Multiple master suites
- Ground floor rooms for older family members
- Dual Occupancy properties (side by side or at rear dwellings)
- Study spaces and reading nooks
Where do I start with building a multi generational home?
We have a number of single-storey and double-storey home designs you can choose from that are spacious enough for multiple generations as well as granny flat designs you can build alongside your new home. Our dual occupancy homes are private and fully self-contained, they fit alongside the main residence and are housed under one roof. An innovative twist on the traditional granny flat taking in all the needs of contemporary Australian living with both two-storey and single-storey options.
When you chat with our Building and Design Consultants, you can ask us about building a granny flat with its ensuite and spacious bedroom - like a miniature version of your own home.
For homeowners who shudder at the idea of living with their parents again, it doesn't hurt to at least factor in unexpected changes that could present themselves. If you're building your forever home, make sure you're making design choices that will last for multiple generations.
Be ready for unexpected changes
You never know how circumstances might change, and having family members move in with you will usually be an unexpected situation. Even if you opt for an additional bedroom or ensure enough bathrooms for growth – you don't have to change your plans altogether.
Whether you're planning ahead or just in case it's needed in the future, allowing an extra room or ideally an extra living space for the family is a surefire way to futureproof your house. We've had increased numbers of clients choose to build dual occupancy homes over the last five years and it's a great decision for growing families.
Even if you don't foresee your inlaws moving in with you, it's becoming more and more likely that your children will stay with you sometimes up to the age of 30.
Three golden rules of multi generational living
- Ensure that there is a bedroom (preferably with an ensuite ) on the ground floor, so elderly family members do not have to travel up and down the stairs.
- Choose floorplans with at least two living spaces. That way, you aren't living on top of each other in one living space, and there's less fighting over the television!
- You don't necessarily have to be in the same home – you can opt for a dual occupancy home so that you're on the same land but still have your own space, garage and front door.
To find the perfect multigenerational home design for your family, browse McDonald Jones' home designs and floorplans here.
Alternatively, find a display home near you so you can tour our open-plan living spaces in person.
McDonald Jones builds new homes all across NSW & ACT, so be sure to reach out to your nearest display to speak with one of our Building and Design Consultants.
