According to the 2000 Census, 3.9 million American homes have three or more generations living together. (78,000 households contain four generations.) “One segment of this growing population is baby boomers caring for aging parents,” notes Linda Reimer, president of Design Basics, Inc.
“Another group consists of younger families who live with able-bodied parents in order to pool finances in expensive housing markets or so they both can afford to live in a nicer home. Having grandparents involved in their grandchildren’s lives and available for babysitting is an added bonus.
Design 42045 - In-Law suite option
“ The last group is made up of empty nesters who welcome their grown children back for a period of time to help them get on their feet financially after graduating from college, losing a job or going through a divorce.
“A well-designed in-law suite can make sharing a household much more enjoyable for everyone. But before getting started, it’s important to check local codes to see if there are any restrictions. For example, some municipalities prohibit a single-family home from having two full kitchens or a suite having a separate entrance. Others will allow these options, but will require homeowners to verify a relative is living in the space.”
Our lifestyles have spread across the lans and separated our familles. Economic times being what they are, these trends may be changing. We have had quite a bit of interest in multi-generaltional home designs.
20 years ago my parents built a 900 square foot a self-contained apartment for my grandmother in thier home. Today, my wife an I looking at doing something similar for my father in the next few years.
What are your thoughts and needs regarding your multi-generaltional homes? What is realistic for your family?
Read our entire “The In-Law-Suite“
See our design with Guest Suites and In-Law Suite.
