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
Source: Pro Builder
This video gives some ideas for repurposing an existing home:
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 owners 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 woodburning fireplace. It is on it’s 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 to 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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