What is an Intergenerational House Plan?
An intergenerational plan is a house design specifically tailored for multi-generational living. This type of multi-family plan allows grandparents, parents, and kids to live together under one roof in a safe and comfortable home. It provides a unique housing layout which offers plenty of space for guests and extended family while also allowing for separate living areas, which provide privacy to everyone.
Benefits of an Intergenerational House Plan
Intergenerational living has numerous benefits for all ages. For older adults, it allows them to remain close to their adult children and enjoy seeing their grandchildren regularly. It also reduces the risk of isolation that can come with old age. For younger generations, living with their grandparents can help teach them values such as respect and responsibility.
Features of an Intergenerational House Plan
Intergenerational plans are designed to accommodate both families and singles of different ages. Depending on the size and needs of each family, a plan can feature anywhere from two to five separate living spaces. Each area may include bedrooms, a kitchen, and a living room. Common areas such as the living and dining rooms can also be separated out to create more personal spaces, or the whole section of the house can be opened up to create one large gathering area. Additionally, intergenerational house plans often feature larger bathrooms, an extra laundry room, and multiple storage areas for both short- and long-term items.
Types of Intergenerational House Plans
Intergenerational house plans come in a variety of styles and sizes, making it easy to find one that fits your family’s needs and budget. Popular intergenerational home layouts include
garden-style apartments
,
multi-family condos
,
attached single-family homes
, and
detached duplexes
. Each of these styles offers unique features that can make living in an intergenerational plan more comfortable.
Finding the Right Intergenerational House Plan
Choosing the right intergenerational house plan is key to making sure everyone in the household is comfortable. It’s important to consider the needs of all family members and decide what features are essential, such as if stairs need to be avoided or if common areas need to be separated for privacy. Additionally, when looking for a plan, it’s important to research guidelines for each municipality to make sure the plan is permitted.
