Once a common way of life in America, multigenerational living is making a strong comeback. Before World War II, extended families sharing a home wasn’t just normal — it was expected. Today, this traditional living arrangement is experiencing a renaissance, with more families discovering the benefits of having multiple generations under one roof.
According to recent polling, about 1 in 4 Americans (25%) now live in multigenerational households, up from just 7% in recent decades. (This trend is most pronounced in Asian, Black and Hispanic households.)
Whether it’s adult children moving back home, grandparents helping with childcare, or aging parents needing support, families are finding creative ways to make shared living work.
Here are five essential tips to create a harmonious multigenerational household:
- Design for privacy and independence: Create designated private spaces for each generation. This might mean converting a garage into an in-law suite, finishing a basement for adult children or adding a separate entrance. Remember: personal space isn’t a luxury — it’s essential for maintaining harmony and independence.
- Establish clear communication channels: Set up regular family meetings to discuss household matters, from daily schedules to shared expenses. Consider using technology to keep everyone connected — for instance, you can use your smartphones for group chats or shared digital calendars to more easily coordinate family plans.
- Create shared and flexible spaces: Along with private spaces mentioned above, it’s also important to design common areas that work for everyone. Think about adaptable furniture solutions, like expandable dining tables for family meals or convertible seating for different activities. Consider universal design principles that work for all ages and abilities, from more user-friendly lever-style door handles to well-lit pathways.
- Set clear financial boundaries: Have open discussions about how your household expenses will be shared. Don’t be shy about creating written agreements about who pays for what, from utilities to groceries. You may want to consider setting up a shared household account for common expenses while maintaining separate accounts for personal spending.
- Respect routines and traditions: Each generation has its own daily rhythms and cultural practices. Create a household schedule that respects everyone’s routines, from early-bird grandparents to night-owl teens. Celebrate and incorporate different family traditions into your shared life — it’s an opportunity for cross-generational learning and bonding.
Remember, successful multigenerational living isn’t about forcing everyone to live the same way — it’s about creating a flexible environment where different lifestyles can coexist comfortably.
What are your experiences with multigenerational living? Have you found creative solutions for making it work? Share your stories and tips with the Shop Talk community!
Did you know? The power of togetherness
Studies show that children who grow up in multigenerational households often develop stronger family bonds and better social skills. They benefit from the wisdom of older generations while older family members stay more active and engaged. In fact, it’s a living arrangement that can enrich everyone’s lives.