Upgrade your space for multi-generational living

With more families choosing to live together under one roof, multi-generational living has emerged as a prominent lifestyle trend. Rising property costs, an increased emphasis on family connections, and a desire to support aging parents or adult children are all fuelling this shift.

READ: Top 3 tips to survive and thrive in a multi-generational home

But, while the benefits of multi-generational living are significant – offering emotional support, financial savings, and shared responsibilities – it also brings challenges, particularly when it comes to accommodating everyone comfortably.

Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, says that privacy remains one of the top sought-after features for those who are looking to find a multi-generational home. “Creating a space with its own separate entrance for grandparents or adult children adds immense value to any property. If you have the budget, adding an in-law suite or a self-contained apartment with a kitchenette and bathroom can significantly increase the home’s resale value,” he notes.

When sharing common areas like the living room, kitchen, and dining area, it can be useful to make these spaces as functional as possible to accommodate family gatherings, shared meals, and quality time. “Consider open-concept layouts, which create a sense of spaciousness, and invest in multi-functional furniture – like pull-out couches, fold-down desks, or extendable dining tables – to help maximize every square inch of space and adapt to changing needs.”

READ: How landlords could cater to multi-generational tenants

With multiple generations comes the need for noise control. Adding soundproofing elements to walls, floors, and doors can help reduce noise between areas and ensure that everyone has a peaceful retreat. “Simple upgrades like installing thicker carpets, using noise-dampening materials in walls, and adding doors with good sound insulation properties can significantly improve the quality of life in a busy household,” Goslett suggests.

“With more people comes more stuff, so robust storage is a must,” he adds. Invest in custom storage solutions, such as built-in wardrobes, under-stair storage, or floor-to-ceiling cabinets in the garage or basement.

“Transforming a home for multi-generational living may feel daunting at first, but with a few key adjustments, you can create a balanced and welcoming space for everyone. That being said, some properties are easier to adapt to multi-generational living than others” says Goslett.

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Yael Geffen, CEO of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty, previously shared in 2023 (read full article here )the following are very important factors in making multi-generational living work for everyone involved:

Open Communication Channels:

Encourage open and honest communication among all family members and create a space where everyone feels comfortable expressing their needs, concerns, and expectations. Regular family meetings can be a valuable forum for discussing shared responsibilities, financial matters, and personal boundaries.

Define Shared Spaces and Personal Boundaries:

Clearly define shared spaces and personal boundaries within the home. Each generation may have different lifestyles, routines, and preferences so establishing designated areas for communal activities and personal spaces allows everyone to coexist harmoniously. Encourage mutual respect for these boundaries to foster a sense of autonomy and privacy for each household member.

Financial Transparency:

Financial discussions can be sensitive but are crucial for the success of multi-generational living. Establish transparency regarding financial contributions, expenses, and savings goals and clearly outline how costs will be shared, taking into account the varying financial capacities of different generations. Transparency helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures that everyone contributes fairly to the household's financial well-being.

Shared Responsibilities:

Distribute household responsibilities equitably among all family members. From chores to caregiving responsibilities, sharing the load fosters a sense of teamwork and prevents any one individual from feeling overwhelmed or resentful. Rotating responsibilities and establishing a schedule for tasks can help maintain balance and ensure that everyone plays a part in the smooth functioning of the household.

Respect Different Generational Perspectives:

Multi-generational living brings together diverse perspectives shaped by different life experiences. Encourage an environment of mutual respect and understanding and embrace the opportunity for intergenerational learning and sharing of wisdom. Recognise that each generation has unique strengths and contributions to offer, creating a rich tapestry of experiences within the household.

Create Intentional Shared Activities:

Foster a sense of togetherness by creating intentional shared activities. Whether it's regular family meals, game nights, or outings, shared experiences strengthen familial bonds. Be mindful of the varied interests and preferences of different generations, ensuring that activities are inclusive and enjoyable for everyone. These moments of connection contribute to a positive and cohesive family dynamic.

Flexibility and Adaptability:

Life is dynamic, and circumstances can change so try to cultivate a spirit of flexibility and adaptability within the household and recognise that each family member may face different challenges and stages of life. Being open to adjustments and embracing change with a positive attitude allows the family to navigate transitions smoothly and support each other through various life events.

Provide Individual Support:

Recognise the unique needs of each family member and provide individual support where necessary. Whether it's childcare, eldercare, or emotional support, understanding and addressing the specific needs of each generation contribute to a nurturing and caring environment. This approach fosters a sense of security and well-being for all household members.

Encourage Independence:

While multi-generational living promotes interdependence, it's also essential to encourage individual independence. Support younger family members in pursuing their goals and establishing their independence. Similarly, respect the autonomy and preferences of older family members. Balancing interdependence with individual freedom contributes to a healthy and harmonious living arrangement.

Seek Professional Guidance:

In some cases, seeking professional guidance can be beneficial and family counsellors or therapists experienced in navigating multi-generational dynamics can provide valuable insights and tools for effective communication and conflict resolution. “Multi-generational living can be a rewarding and enriching experience when approached with intention, communication, and flexibility," says Geffen.