There’s nothing quite like a pandemic to change the way we live our lives. And it’s not a stretch to say that some of the changes will stick — you know, the good ones like working from home wherever home is.
Life is full of challenges and we didn’t need a pandemic to know that.
The result of all of this is we’re re-thinking our housing options. Where we live, how we work and helping our families is all on the table today.
As designers of custom homes, we’re in a position to create solutions.
Multi-generational living — defined as two or more adult generations living under the same roof — is changing how families engage from day-to-day. And, we think that’s a good thing.
Besides the obvious benefit of strengthened connections, multi-gen living may be the solution to a number of common but vexing issues, such as how to best care for an aging parent in the face of soaring assisted living costs or how to help young adult children who are just getting started and struggling to stay afloat amid high housing costs.
Not to mention, there are more hands on deck to shoulder financial responsibilities, such as taxes and monthly utility costs, as well as household maintenance tasks.
Amidst the warm and fuzzy thoughts of tight family bonds and never having to mow the lawn again (because you chose “take out the trash” from the shared home maintenance list), it’s important to take a step back, think through daily routines, and create a solid plan for how parents, grandparents and/or children living under the same roof will actually play out in real life.
If visions of cramped quarters come to mind, it’s time to rethink the possibilities.
This is where Confederation’s expertise comes in.
Having been in the custom home building business for over 40 years, we know what works — and what doesn’t — when it comes to floor plans and design features. One thing we know is always a win whether your home needs to function for two or for ten is an open-concept living area.
Every Confederation floor plan features an open layout that promises an easy flow through common areas. In a multi-gen house, this means plenty of room to gather for meals, movies and whatever else brings your family together.
In addition, you’ll have the option of including vaulted or cathedral ceilings that will encourage a roomy feel, even when your home is bustling with activity.
When it comes to choosing a floor plan, forget trying to mold your lifestyle around a stock plan.
The endless hunt for the perfect floor plans ends with a plan designed just for you.
Of course, you have the opportunity to glean from our 100+ floor plans, but once you’ve been inspired, take a few minutes and get clear on your priorities — your nice-to-haves versus your gotta-haves with our Getting Started Worksheet. A home created specifically for your needs.
Of course, for shared living, your first inclination may be to plan for an in-law suite in a lower level or a separate wing for bedrooms. While this is a tried-and-true plan for pairing older and younger generations, there are some considerations still, such as the need to navigate stairs.
Or, you can take advantage of our always custom design service and take your shared home to the next level — and we’re not talking the basement. Consider this game-changing suggestion:
With guidance from our design pros, you can build a truly self-contained home within your home.
Imagine, a separate space not only with its own living and sleeping quarters but its own exterior entrance plus an interior doorway for when adult kids or parents want to join the family with ease.
A separate but connected space that allows everyone to retreat for solitude and maintain a sense of privacy (often the biggest concern when it comes to shared living).
At the same time, older family members who may need extra care are within arm’s reach while still being able to live autonomously and with dignity, while adult children benefit from a sense of independence.
Other possibilities for shared living include customizing entry, hall and doorway sizes and counter height and cabinetry in kitchens and bathrooms to accommodate for handicap accessibility.
Other welcome additions could include tucked-away spots, such as a reading nook or out-of-the-way window seat, that would offer a few moments of privacy; bunk rooms or play lofts for younger grandchildren; or outdoor living spaces that play a dual role — offering opportunities to gather and enjoy one another’s company or slip away for a some fresh air and a quick respite.
It’s time for some fresh thinking — some new options.
Who knew log home design could help you start to solve some of life’s more vexing problems — helping your kids, the best care for your aging parent, pooling finances … and yes, even more hands on deck for that garbage run. 😉
That’s what custom design is all about. Imagine that!
This is sure to generate questions – feel free to email me at rich_kinsman@confederationloghomes.
