Photo by Farm Kid Studios
Photo by Leslie Crane
Once thought of as a stopgap or a sacrifice, multigenerational living has evolved into a lifestyle—often chosen rather than compelled. Whether for financial strategy, caregiving support, or simply the desire to remain close, living among multiple generations can be both practical and meaningful. “In the past, we thought about multigenerational homes as a mother-in-law apartment—like your parents moving in,” says Shelter Architecture’s founder Jackie Millea, an architect and designer recognized for her expertise in universal design. “Now, adult children are staying into their 20s and 30s or coming back to live with their parents.”
This change is influenced by both choice and circumstance. Rising housing costs, caregiving challenges, and the long tail of the pandemic have all played significant roles. However, for many families, there’s a deeper appeal beyond the financials: flexibility, autonomy, and togetherness. “We’re designing for both aging adults and younger generations simultaneously,” Millea says. “It’s not just about accessibility anymore.”
Making it work requires thoughtful design that integrates independence with connection, and that balance is evident in floor plans. Gone are the days of a basement bedroom and bath down the hall—modern homes frequently incorporate dual primary suites, private entrances, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and even separate kitchenettes, allowing for freedom within proximity. Millea emphasizes that “designing in some privacy and autonomy” is essential, especially as adult children juggle professional careers, relationships, and their own identities while living under the same roof as their parents.
Photo by Spacecrafting/Bo Carlock
Despite these developments, universal design remains fundamental to the movement, Millea says. Features such as zero-threshold entries, lever-style door handles, and wide doorways cater to both aging grandparents and toddlers. “Zero thresholds work for somebody who might have a walker or a wheelchair, but they also work for a stroller,” Millea points out. “A lever handle is easier for a little dude to move that handle up and down, and it’s also easier for someone who has less grip or mobility in their hands.”
Demand for flexible and adaptable spaces also is on the rise. Rooms that can transition from office to playroom to bedroom as family needs change are essential, and communal kitchens now frequently feature multiple prep zones or varied countertop heights, facilitating cooking together—or separately—across generations. Technology is making an impact, too. Smart thermostats, Alexa-enabled devices, and voice-activated safety features support aging in place while providing convenience for everyone.
“It’s not a one-size-fits-all,” Millea advises. “Not everybody has the same needs or the same values, so it’s really looking at what your specific case is and being sensitive to all parties that are going to be involved. The idea is that it’s a win-win—it’s not just out of obligation.” Because as Millea perfectly sums up, just being there—whether it’s a birthday party or dance recital—becomes far easier with multigenerational living. “We’re coming back to those values and making those things important.” shelterarchitecture.com
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