Thursday, September 20, 2007

Multi-Generational Housing Design

Extended families' living under one roof is certainly not a new concept. My great grandfather and great aunt lived with my nana in their later years; and goodness that was oh so many years ago. But aside from upgrading a guest room by adding a bath and labeling it a mother-in law suite, we don't often see thoughtful design for a diverse living arrangement. Instead we hear about the starter home for newlyweds; and the move-up home for those needing more space or amenities; or the empty-nester/downsizer. It's as if all of these families can house guests, but not long term extended family.

Since I am *ahem* lucky enough to speak from experience about living with extended family I can tell you that there are some key design options that should be made more widely available. In my opinion these considerations should include:

• Layouts that allow you to get together as a family; and then retreat to private areas. And I don't mean adding more rooms; just using the rooms we already have for multiple purposes.
• Homes that offer stylish and completely separate living areas with shared exterior spaces like courtyards.
• Lifts, pulleys, chutes, and elevators - How can we use engineering to make it easier for all occupants to navigate multiple levels and tasks that require moving items from one floor to the next?
• Including enough refrigerator space. Seriously there should be a pull-out refrigerator drawer in each private area.
• And extra soundproofing - no kidding - we don't need to hear everything that goes on in the next room.

© 2007, CanvasCorp LLC.
www.CanvasCorp.com

Multi-Generational Housing Design
posted by CanvasCorp LLC on 12:56 PM