Multi-generational living is one of the fastest growing trends currently driving architecture in the UK.
Although commonplace in some other parts of the world, multi-generational living has been on the rise recently in the UK, USA and Canada.
According to Pew Research Centre, the number of people living in multi-generational family households in the United States quadrupled between 1971 and 2021. A record 64 million Americans now live in such dwellings. In Canada, multi-generational homes was the fastest growing household type in recent decades, growing by 50% since 2001. In the UK, research by the commercial real estate services company CBRE found that 1.8 million UK households contained two or more adult generations in 2020, an increase of 38% in just 10 years.
This shift is driven by a number of factors. This includes rising living costs and the difficulty for young people being able to afford to get on the property ladder, staying at home longer, or returning home as an adult.
Simultaneously, multi-generational living can be an attractive option for elderly parents, enabling them to stay in a family environment with mutual support available.
So, for these reasons and more, multi-generational households are becoming increasingly common in the UK. This trend gives rise to new opportunities and solutions, requiring thoughtful architectural design to ensure comfort, privacy, and functionality for all residents.
For architects, this is opening up new ways of thinking both about retro-fitting existing properties and designing new properties. For existing properties, new ways are being found to convert space in a way that meets the needs of multi-generational families. And for new builds, homes are being designed that have flexibility at their heart, so they can adapt to multi-generational demands over time.
Flexibility may mean, for example, a suitable spatial configuration, adequate service connections for a future extension over the garage, rooms in the roof, a basement or a rear/side extension. Alternatively, it can mean internal reorganisation to allow a larger space to be subdivided or a master bedroom and ensuite to be converted into a self-contained annexe. There are a whole range of approaches that can be taken as long as the intention is established early enough in the design process.
Here are some examples of the types of approaches that are commonly used for multi- generational living:
Split level homes
Split-level designs can help create natural divisions within a vertical home. It can be adapted to allow the residents to have individual apartments on different floors, making it possible for each to have their own facilities if preferred while maintaining proximity. In some cases, new floors can be added to accommodate a growing family. Converting a basement or attic is a popular way of extending the possibilities of a vertical home. You can see our article about basements here. https://cadarchitects.co.uk/architects-news/going-underground/ .
Separate wings
Often requiring a larger initial footprint, this approach segments the living quarters into separated apartments or rooms on different sides of the house, potentially creating indoor/outdoor buffer zones that can be common spaces.
Some homes are designed with two separate wings, each with its own entrance, living area, and kitchen. This layout works well for families who want close proximity without compromising independence.
Extensions
As not all extensions can be addressed by the addition of floors, many renovations of existing family homes call for a new build extension. A self-contained annexe, sometimes called a “granny flat”, is a popular solution for housing elderly relatives or returning adult children. These spaces often include a bedroom, bathroom, small kitchen, and separate entrance, offering privacy while remaining connected to the main home.
In order to decide on the best design solution, here are some of the considerations that architects need to take into account in order to meet the growing demand for multi- generational living.
Flexible Spaces
A well-designed multi-generational home offers adaptable spaces that can evolve with the family’s needs. Open-plan layouts can provide family meeting spaces, while partitioning or sliding doors can introduce privacy when required. Rooms should be designed with versatility in mind—what serves as a playroom today might need to function as a study or an elderly relative’s bedroom in the future.
Privacy and Independence
One of the biggest challenges in multi-generational living is ensuring everyone has their own space. Separate entrances, annexes, or self-contained suites can help maintain a sense of independence. Features such as ensuite bathrooms, personal kitchenettes, and private outdoor areas can further enhance autonomy within a shared household.
Accessibility and Future-Proofing
With older family members in mind, accessibility must be a priority. Step-free access, wider doorways, ground-floor bedrooms, and wheelchair-friendly bathrooms can ensure the home remains functional as needs change.
Shared and Communal Areas
While privacy is important, shared spaces should be designed to be large enough to accommodate the whole family at times. Large kitchens and dining areas can serve as family hubs, while living rooms should accommodate seating arrangements that allow for both intimate and large-group gatherings.
Zoning for Noise Management
Different generations have different lifestyle patterns—young children may be energetic and noisy, while older members may require quiet spaces. Thoughtful zoning of rooms can minimise disruptions, with social spaces placed away from sleeping areas. Soundproofing measures, such as insulation between walls and ceilings, can further enhance comfort.
Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
Larger households naturally consume more energy, making sustainability a key design consideration. Energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, solar panels, and smart appliances can help reduce running costs. Incorporating natural light, ventilation, and sustainable materials can also enhance well-being while reducing environmental impact.
Working closely with you, our team at CAD Architects in Truro can assess the specific requirements of each generation in your family and translate these into practical design solutions. Whether through retrofitting an existing property or designing a new-build home, careful planning can future-proof the space.
By embracing flexibility, privacy, accessibility, and sustainability, our team can design homes that not only meet the immediate needs of modern families but also adapt to their future demands.
If you’re considering designing a home for multi-generational living, contact us today to discuss how we can bring your vision to life. Call us on 01872 630040 or email studio@cadarchitects.co.uk