In the 1950’s, 21 percent of Americans lived in multi-generational homes. (That is, homes which include two or more generations, not counting parents with minor children.)
Although the number dropped as low as 12% in the 80’s, the percentage of people living with their adult children or elderly parents has skyrocketed – and according to a 2018 Pew Research report, we are back to 1 in 5 homes being multi-generational – that’s 64 million Americans living in these types of households!
What is driving this trend towards living with extended family – and how can you design your custom home to accommodate this lifestyle foryourself?
The years after the Great Recession saw many adult children moving back in with mom and dad – whether because they couldn’t find work, or they couldn’t find a place they could afford on their own. Millennials famously moved back in with their parents, and lifted much of the stigma of moving back home for an entire generation. Elderly parents moved into their adult children’s homes because although they had saved for retirement, they were living longer and looking to save money.
All of these reasons were primarily financial, and money concerns did drive much of the move towards multi-generational living. But the interesting dynamic is this – people moved in together for practical reasons, but they stayed for emotional ones. It turns out, we like living with the people we love!
Studies have shown that children who grow up with grandparent in the home are happier, more well-adjusted, and even live longer. Not to mention the fact that there are always built-in babysitters, and no need for latchkey kids. Children keep elderly people feeling younger, grandparents make children feel more secure – and everyone enjoys the cost savings.
Separate Space is Still Valued
As much as we love multi-generational living, everyone still enjoys a space of their own. The most functional arrangements tend to be those which allow the generations to live in the same home, but feel more like they live next door. Custom home builders are designing houses which have distinct wings or mother-in-law apartments, complete with their own entrances and parking. Some choose to build a large efficiency apartment on the first floor of the home, with its own kitchen and living space included.
If zoning and building codes allow, families are opting for small cottages on the property, which offer all the comforts of home. Others have renovated garage apartments to be ultra-comfortable lofts and suites. All of these options allow for the kids to run to grandma’s house, without leaving the safety of their fenced-in backyard.
Multi Generational Features to Include
Nationwide, realtors have noted that as many as 40% of home buyers are looking for homes which will accommodate either adult children, or elderly parents. This makes a custom home built with such features easier to resell – especially as the numbers appear to be rising every day.
For adult children, separate entrances, private parking, and completely separate, fully functioning living space is important. They value privacy and the ability to cook, watch TV, and entertain without the extended family hovering.
For elderly parents, privacy is still valued, but not as much. They prefer to cook, eat and socialize with the family – so full kitchens are not as important to them. What is important is one-level living, or an elevator installed if their home is on the second floor. Wide doorways and bright lighting are important as they get older and may be using walkers or wheelchairs.
Multi-generational living is on the rise, and having a home which reflects this trend is great for resale. If you are looking for creative ways to build a multi generational custom home, or are hoping to renovate your current Sarasota home to accommodate new residents – call Lindahl Construction. We have the expertise, experience and inspiration you need.