Add the aging baby boomers, a slow economic rebound, and a growing cultural diversity and what do you get? You get surge in multigenerational homes. As grandparents downsize and even move in with their children, an addition to a home for another generation can offer parents and their children the perfect solution to a housing problem.

Before jumping right into an addition, you need to decide if multigenerational living is right for your family. Talk to all members of the family involved. The space and privacy needs of every member of the family should be accounted for.

You should also research any restrictions that may be applicable. Restrictions vary from location to location. The most common restriction – no second full kitchen. A second full kitchen might violate zoning laws for single-family dwellings. Check with your local zoning laws to be sure.

With the goals and the restrictions in mind, often families chose to add a bedroom with a bathroom en suite and a sitting room for the older generation. The sitting room can be a place of privacy and escape. Maintaining a sense of separation can ease tensions that can arise.

Safety issues also need to be examined. The in-law suite might need to be on the ground floor as stairs can be a challenge as we age. Hallways and doorways might need to be wider than normal to accommodate wheel chairs and/or walkers in the future. In the bathroom, grab bars and non-skid flooring can prevent needless accidents from happening. Low threshold showers and walk-in tubs are another option. Level handles on doors and faucets are generally easier to manipulate then traditional knobs and faucets.

With some thought and plenty of planning, adding another generation to a home can be done painlessly. Let Oak Hill Building & Remodeling aid you in adding needed space to your home!