Allworth: Homes for ‘Extended Family’ Living

There are different scenarios when you have to deal with extended family relations at home. It could be that your grownup kids are not in a hurry to start their own lives, or they have started their own lives but do not want to leave just yet. It could also be the other way around – when your parents decide to move in with you. In any of these circumstances, you will surely need ample home space for all of you to comfortably live and breathe. Of course, you will not want to compromise privacy and mobility in your home.

Some call this setup extended family living wherein two or more generations of adult relatives continue to live with each other under one roof. This is not something that is unheard of in Australia. In fact, it is a growing trend; thus, property developers should have options fit for this setup.

A big factor in this trend is the changing demographic landscape. The baby boomer generation is expected to be downsizing at this point in their lives, but on the contrary, some are actually beefing up. Most of them have grownup children who choose to stay with them while their elderly parents are still in their care. This is why boomers are often termed as the "sandwich" generation.

Another factor is the current wave of "boomerang children" – those that move out of their parents’ nest but decide to go back eventually because of the high cost of living. This generation is motivated by the thought of saving up for their first property while back in their parents’ abode.

Property builders are now starting to consider multi-generational customers by looking into different aspects fit for their needs and lifestyle. These include, among others, the following:

• Larger bedroom sizes
• Facilities with shared access (e.g. bathroom)
• Multiple living or entertainment rooms
• Detached or attached granny room options
• Walk-in robes in guest bedrooms

Most potential homeowners nowadays consider future proofing their new houses with strategic home designs. These are the type that allow for easy conversion or customization of space with a little amount of renovation work needed. For instance, a living room can be translated into an additional bed space with shower access, and vice versa.

Recognizing that multigenerational living will continue to be a trend in Australia, Allworth Homes is focusing on more flexible yet affordable home spaces. Smart layouts are available with the end of maximizing space in the best way possible in view. Case in point is the ‘Lydden’ concept wherein the first floor living room can simply be converted into added accommodation. This space backs onto a wet area with plumbing layout that can easily facilitate bathroom access.

According to Stephen Thompson, Managing Director at Allworth Homes, "extended family living under one roof is a possibility many new home buyers are dealing with or considering. Designs that cater for this are surprisingly simple to produce provided you start out with the end in mind."

At Allworth Homes we build quality new homesproject homes for our customers in the Sydney and Wollongong areas. Go to https://www.allworthhomes.com.au/our-homes to see our awesome home plans and find out what we can build for you.

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