In recent years, there’s been a noticeable shift in the American housing landscape. More families are coming together to live under one roof, embracing the concept of multigenerational living. In fact, according to a Pew Research Center analysis, 64 million Americans (or 20% of the U.S. population) lived in multigenerational households in 2016, a significant increase from previous decades.

What’s driving this trend? What are its benefits and drawbacks? And how does it affect homeowners? Read on to find out.

Understanding Multigenerational Living & Its Benefits

So, what is “multigenerational living”? The term simply refers to households that include more than two generations living together under one roof. This could mean a household that includes parents and their adult children, one that contains grandparents, parents, and small children, or even a home whose inhabitants span four generations.

Historically speaking, multigenerational living has usually been the norm, not the exception. For most of human history, families stayed close, with multiple generations residing from birth to death in the same shared house or shelter. Culturally, many societies around the world value the concept of extended families living together, offering mutual support for each other as they move through the various stages of life.

It’s only within the past few centuries that children leaving the home around the age of adulthood has become more of a common practice. But as costs of living have changed, what’s old has become new again, as the benefits of multigenerational living have made this lifestyle popular once more.

What are those benefits? Families opt for multigenerational living for a huge variety of reasons, from financial savings to improved family dynamics. Shared responsibilities mean tasks like childcare, cooking, and maintenance are divided, making daily life smoother and easier. For aging parents, living with family can offer a significantly safer day-to-day experience. Financially, shared expenses can also lead to significant savings. And then there’s the fact that many families simply enjoy each others’ company, and prefer the warmth of sharing life together to living apart.

However, like any living arrangement, multigenerational living isn’t without its challenges. Privacy can be a concern, and setting boundaries is essential to ensure an ideal daily living experience for every member of the house.

What Are Multigenerational Home Floor Plans?

Multigenerational floor plans are home designs that cater to the needs of multigenerational families. They ensure privacy while promoting togetherness.

Many multigenerational floor plans share similar key features. These floor plans may include separate living areas, dual primary suites, and shared spaces that allow family members to come together while also enjoying their own private space.

Popular Multigenerational Home Floor Plans

For a three-generation family, a large home with a spacious owner’s suite and other bedrooms on the ground floor, complemented by a second level with additional bedrooms, can be ideal. Parents can occupy the primary bedroom, while grandparents enjoy another bedroom on the first floor, and the kids live upstairs. Allowing the older family members to live on the ground floor reduces the need to use stairs and encourages shared time during meals and throughout the day.

For homeowners living with their adult children, a home with one bedroom and an adjacent study or game room on the second floor can be perfect. The additional room can serve as a small living area, providing the necessary privacy.

For adults aged 55+ living with a retired parent, layouts that offer two first-floor bedrooms that aren’t adjacent can work well. A floor plan like this can help ensure both privacy and proximity, allowing all parties to enjoy their space without sacrificing safety.

Multigenerational Living Floor Plans at Union Park

There are many options available at Union Park for those who are rediscovering the benefits of living with extended family. Take a look at the multigenerational living floor plans offered by the builders at Union Park:

Is Multigenerational Living Right for You?

While the allure of multigenerational living is undeniable, it’s important to carefully consider these factors before making a decision.

  • Privacy: While living together offers countless moments of togetherness, everyone still needs their own space. Can your home accommodate this? Will each generation have a place they can call their own? Be sure to select a multigenerational home floor plan that offers enough privacy to meet your needs.
  • Finances: Money matters can be tricky, especially when multiple generations are involved. Who pays for what? How are bills split? Will one person manage all the finances, or will it be a joint effort? It’s essential to have a clear financial plan in place, ensuring transparency and avoiding potential conflicts.
  • Shared Responsibilities: With more hands, household chores can be divided, but it’s essential to set clear expectations. Who takes out the trash? Who’s in charge of meals? Delineating responsibilities can help ensure the household runs smoothly and everyone plays their part.
  • Communication: Open, honest communication is the bedrock of successful multigenerational living. Clearly discussing the details of everyone’s daily routines and needs, setting boundaries, and understanding each family member’s preferences are all important.
  • Daily Routines: From night owls to early risers, everyone has their own daily rhythm. Understanding and respecting each other’s schedules will ensure the household runs harmoniously.

Explore Multigenerational Living at Union Park by Hillwood

For those considering buying new construction homes in multigenerational communities, look no further than Union Park by Hillwood in Little Elm. Nestled in a prime location with good schools, Union Park offers a plethora of amenities for all ages, including resort-style pools, fitness facilities, a network of trails, fishing ponds, a dog park, playgrounds, and more. Engage in lifestyle activities that bring your family closer together and enjoy the comfort of a gorgeous new home designed with a shared family life in mind.

Ready to embrace a multigenerational lifestyle? Discover Union Park today.