How to Make A Home Comfortable for Multi-Generations
Repurposing an older home or designing new to fit the multi-generational lifestyle doesn’t have to break the bank. These are things the experts tell you to consider for multi-generational living comforts:
- First-floor master suites and dual masters
- Lower level living areas
- Living space above the garage or in an extra garage bay
- Separate entrances
- Second kitchens (make sure there is not a zoning ordinance against this)
- Private spaces for each generation
- Rental apartments within single-family homes
I recently sold a multi-generational home where the family made an addition to the home they already owned to meet the needs of a blended family. The owners wanted a flexible floor plan that allowed privacy for 2 different sets of teenagers, public space with enough square footage and flow to accommodate large family functions, and a kitchen big enough for several cooks with a large eating area for having evening meals together. The result was a finished lower level with 2 bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a large recreation room. On the main floor, they added a spacious breakfast/heaarth room which was open to the kitchen. The old kitchen was redone with lots of cabinets and counter space and 2 sinks. It was definitely big enough for at least 2 cooks. They then added a 2nd family room off the breakfast room. This family room was separated from the kitchen area and the old family room with French doors. This flexibility offered privacy for a small group and then a good flow and lots of room for larger family gatherings. Even though the owner's intention was to accommodate a blended family, the house was marketed and sold as a multi-generational home. The lower level became the private quarters for grandma and grandpa.
I am currently working with 2 sellers who have homes that would be ideal for multi-generational living. These houses are on the “coming soon” list. One is in an urban area of St. Louis. It consists of a large home with 4 bedrooms and 2 full baths. But the best part of this property is the carriage house, which has a full bath, kitchen, and living/dining area with a wood-burning fireplace. It has its own separate utilities. The carriage house has its own separate entrance from the outside but is also connected to the main house by a family room.
Another home that is on the “coming soon” list is in St. Louis County. This home is a newer atrium ranch that was built with the intention of accommodating a set of teenage boys, their parents, and the grandparents. Within a couple of years, it was also home to a sibling. The home has an apartment for the grandparents. The apartment has its own entrance off the garage, a living room, kitchen, and bedroom. It also walks out to a shared deck. The main part of the house has a large kitchen that opens to the dining room and living room. This is the public space for family gatherings and parties. In addition, the main floor has 2 master bedroom suites. The walk-out lower level has 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, a game room/den, and an office. (A precaution if you are considering adding an apartment: check the zoning laws.)
There are other homes in the St. Louis Metro area that would either fit the needs of a multi-generation home or could easily be repurposed. Sometimes it’s a case of finishing a lower level. Sometimes a room can be added over a garage. My sister has a 4-family unit with no steps on the first-floor apartments, which would easily accommodate my mom and one of my siblings.
If you are considering a move that would include parents or children with kids, or if you have a friend who is leaning in this direction, contact me by phone or text at 314-503-4856. I would love to consult with you and talk about how to make a home comfortable for multi-generations.
For a list of family issues that need to be addressed prior to purchasing a multi-generational home, click here.
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