MORE THE MERRIER

Built with room to spare, this Adelaide home operates as a magnet for visitors and encourages multi-generational living

- STORY SHELLEY TUSTIN

The downside of downsizing is limiting one's room to host, which was never going to be an acceptable option for the owners of this Adelaide home, who choose to keep their nest full and well feathered to operate as the nucleus of extended family life. Though their children are grown, an empty nest is a foreign concept; two of their adult children currently reside in the home and a revolving door of visitors means the house is never quiet.

As the home was built for the couple by their adult children (both sons are licensed builders, in addition to their primary professions), they could dictate their requirements. For the house to operate as a multi-generational home meant a hefty list of must-haves, including two home offices and ensuites off three of the bedrooms. "There's essentially three master bedrooms, each with their own ensuite and his and hers wardrobes, so everyone can have their own space, but still be part of the one home," says their daughter Mashal, who was also involved in bringing her parents' dream home to life. And then there are the entertaining amenities: formal and informal living spaces, inside and out; a formal dining room, plus a family dining table that seats 14; and a generous butler's pantry that operates like a second kitchen, says Mashal. "That was really important to my mum because she's a big cook, and she wanted to have all the mess away from the main kitchen."