Multi Generational Homes | Thomas Building Company

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Multi-Generational Homes

As the structure of the American family continues to evolve, their living arrangements are also undergoing a radical change. Many aging parents are moving in with their adult children to enable their offspring to attend to their needs. And in some cases, grandparents are now living with their grandchildren under the age of 25. Consequently, there is a growing need for multi-generational homes.

What is a multi-generational home? According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s multi-generational home definition, this type of dwelling consists of two or more family generations living under the same roof. You may hear these structures referred to by terms such as granny flats, in-law suites, 2Gen houses or casitas. Typical multi-generational household arrangements include:

Three-generation: This is the most common multi-generational living arrangement. It consists of grandparents and their adult children and grandchildren.
Two adult generations: This often entails “boomerang” children, who are adults that move back home with their parents. Another example is two independent adult families living under the same roof.
Grand families: A grand family consists of grandparents who are the head of the household and children under age 18.
Four-generation: This multi-generational living arrangement consists of great-grandparents, grandparents, parents and children under age 18.

The Differences Between a Multi-Generational and Single-Family Home

Perhaps the most daunting challenge when creating a multi-generational home is achieving the ideal balance between space and privacy.

For example, aging parents that move in with their adult children want to maintain as independent of a lifestyle as possible without “invading the territory” of the other household members. And young adults who move back home certainly want to live as separately as possible from their parents.

Therefore, it’s often necessary to make some home renovations to create adequate living space and ensure everyone still has their privacy. Typically, rooms such as the kitchen, living room and dining room are communal areas, just like in a single-family home.

The bedroom area is where most modifications occur, as options include dividing bedrooms into separate wings or installing en suite, master-style bathrooms in each bedroom. If practical, the homeowner can install a private outside entrance in the bedroom to make it feel more like living in a self-contained home.

In cases where space is at a premium, it may be necessary to build an addition onto the home. Whether homeowners expect the new living arrangements to be temporary or permanent can be a deciding factor when determining the extent of any home renovations.

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What Are the Benefits of Multi-Generational Homes?

Establishing a multi-generational home can create some upfront expenses and often requires a lengthy adjustment period for all household members. However, it can offer several benefits:

Caring for loved ones: Adult children can be more devoted caregivers of aging parents with health issues, giving the entire family peace of mind.
Sharing expenses: From a financial perspective, a multi-generational home can help all household occupants reduce their living expenses. They can share the cost of items such as the mortgage or rent payments, utilities, food, appliances, homeowner’s insurance and more.
Managing a crisis: These days, adult children sometimes move back home during a life crisis such as a job loss, divorce or business failure. This gives them time to get their life back together, and they can also help with chores and other household responsibilities.
Strengthening family ties: Families often grow apart when the members live in separate households. When they move back under the same roof, they can forge stronger bonds that last a lifetime. Grandparents who have lost their life partners can also find solace and avoid loneliness by living with family.

Why Choose Thomas Building Company for Your Multi-Generational Home Needs?

If you’re in the Baton Rouge area and need to create a multi-generational home, Thomas Building Company can help. We’ve been a trusted custom home builder and renovator in the area since 1999.

We can plan and execute every aspect of your renovation project to ensure it meets your unique household requirements. You and your loved ones will have space and the privacy you require in your living arrangements.

Thomas Building Company has earned a stellar reputation throughout the Baton Rouge community. Much of our business comes from referrals from our many satisfied clients. Owner Drew Gasser oversees the work of our experienced team to ensure the results meet your satisfaction. We’ll make sure the work area remains neat and clean. We’ll also minimize disruptions to your household, the neighbors and the surrounding community.