Kiwi living is ever changing, no more so than at present, with increasing land prices and limited land available. Whilst the building industry is leading the way into smarter home building practices to accommodate these modern-day challenges another result is that multi-generational living is also becoming increasingly popular.
By definition, intergenerational living describes when more than one generation in a family live under the same roof. Most commonly in New Zealand this refers to elderly parents that move in with their children or adult children who have not left the family home. When building a new home these additional living requirements can be incorporated as an extension to the dwelling, or as a separate dwelling (granny flat or sleepout) built on the same property, but in a smaller scale.
This design for an intergenerational living household focuses on a range multipurpose living spaces
When designing an intergenerational home it is key to consider separate living areas, bathrooms, and kitchen/kitchenettes. This allows everyone to have their own space, even though there are more people living together. Thought out well, in the future these additions also have the potential to be used as rental opportunities for long term tenants or Airbnb.
This design for a multi-generational living household features a connected wing/flat with it's own kitchen.
Benefits of Intergenerational Living:
- Can help older generations to live independently for longer while also having the support and companionship of family
- Financial – parents/children assisting in contributing to paying off the mortgage allowing young people to avoid increasing rent prices and elderly people to avoid expensive retirement homes
- Makes it easier for grandparents to spend time with/help care for grandchildren
Things to Consider When Build an Intergenerational Home:
- Balance between private and shared living spaces
- Future uses for rooms and creating multipurpose living spaces
- Enough garage and parking space for the extra people
- More toilets and bathrooms are a must – separate WCs and bathrooms are especially useful!
If you’re considering building your own intergenerational home then take a look at our design & build process and contact the Anthem Homes team today to discuss your individual requirements.