12 tips for creating a multigenerational property

An increasing number of homes are welcoming in extended families, at both ends of the age spectrum - here are some ideas on how to make it work

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Multigenerational living is on the rise. According to government statistics*, in 2021, 2.1% of households in England and Wales were multigenerational, an increase from 2011 (1.8%). This ‘multigen’ arrangement, where parents, children and grandparents all live under one roof, and which is common in many other cultures, is becoming more prevalent in the UK. Creating a cross-generational home needs thoughtful planning to make sure that the space meets the needs of every family member – from the oldest to the youngest. By considering the specific requirements of different generations and making the right adjustments, you can design a home that creates a harmonious space for everyone. Nimi Attanayake and Tim O’Callaghan, co-founders of Nimtim Architects, point out that the increase in intergenerational households has been driven by a number of factors including:

• The cost of properties, encouraging young adults to stay longer with their parents, or returning home again, being unable to buy or rent their own place.

• Cost of childcare, meaning parents are taking advantage of grandparents living with them to help with care for children.

• Different generations pooling resources to buy a larger/ better property than they might be able to otherwise afford.

• Having elderly relatives stay in the house so they can be cared for, rather than moving them to a nursing home or other care facility. An ageing society with higher levels of dementia and conditions requiring full-time care is a factor.

• Choosing to live together because of the positive benefits of daily interaction and cohabitation. This can sometimes be part of a cultural tradition for many families originally from different countries.

  If you’re wanting to adapt a house or buy one to renovate, here are 12 things that could help you to create the ideal multipurpose, multigenerational home.