New or old, big or small, homes inherently change with the lifestyles of their inhabitants — guest rooms become nurseries; home offices convert to hobby spaces; kitchen tables grow and shrink. But in recent years, one trend is dominating the way our homes are changing: they’re hosting more generations under one roof.
Whether it’s aging parents moving in, grown children returning home or simply planning for a future scenario, interest in multigenerational living is on the rise. “With the cost of housing, I think we could see more families considering multigenerational living at any age, whether it be a basement apartment or above-garage suite,” affirms Miranda Akers, senior designer at Discovery Dream Homes.
At the heart of successful multigenerational design is a strategic layout that supports both shared and private spaces. Miranda emphasizes universal design via wider doorways, accessible bathrooms and ground-floor primary bedrooms to ensure safety and comfort for all. She adds, “Noise reduction between spaces should be considered to cater to individual needs and preferences.”
Open-concept great rooms encourage family interaction, while separate bedroom suites or in-law apartments support independence. “Flexibility is key — designing spaces that allow for privacy while still fostering connection is essential,” says Ryan Kennedy, marketing coordinator at Woodhouse, The Timber Frame Company. “Separate entrances, dedicated living areas and accessible design features can make a big difference.”
Trends in multigenerational home design reflect this balance. Architects and designers are crafting more detached guesthouses, as well as above-garage and basement-level apartments.
“Many young adults are moving back home temporarily, so having a space that offers independence — like a separate suite or ADU [accessory dwelling unit] — can be a smart solution,” Ryan says. “We’re also seeing families plan for live-in caregivers or extended stays from relatives, making flexibility even more important.”
If you’re planning a multigenerational home, these thoughtful floor plans highlight how log and timber designs can be tailored for successful shared living.
The Bridgewater by Discovery Dream Homes
Courtesy of Discovery Dream Homes
Square Footage: 1,500
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3
This single-level abode ensures accessibility for everyone, while the second primary suite, attached but private, provides a sense of independence. “Sharing laundry facilities, storage space and a kitchen is not only economical in this scenario but efficient,” Miranda says. The smart layout balances personal space with togetherness, allowing family members to maintain their independence while staying close enough for support. “The breezeway offers privacy between suites while still maintaining that connection that makes for a successful multigenerational design.”
The BryceCanyon by Woodhouse, The Timber Frame Company
Courtesy of Woodhouse, The Timber Frame Company
Square Footage: 3,511
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3 full, 1 half
Designed to meet the growing demand for multigenerational living, the BryceCanyon plan from Woodhouse’s “family compound” series incorporates the use of pods, featuring a main house and two detached guest suites. “More families are embracing detached guesthouses, in-law suites and adaptable spaces that can evolve over time,” explains Ryan. This versatile layout is a great way to accommodate long-term overnight guests or caretakers.
The Fiddlehead by Real Log Homes
Courtesy of Real Log Homes
Square Footage: 432
Bedrooms: 1
Bathrooms: 1
For those seeking a cozy retreat, perhaps as a backyard ADU, the Fiddlehead offers the charm of a traditional log cabin in less than 500 square feet. An ideal guest cottage, in-law suite or private retreat for aging parents or grown children, its compact-yet-functional design, with a kitchen, living room, bedroom and bathroom, allows for self-sufficient living with the security of having family nearby. Small auxiliary dwellings like this are becoming a popular solution for adaptable family housing that compromises neither style nor function.
The St. Croix by Moosehead Cedar Log Homes
Courtesy of Moosehead Cedar Log Homes
Square Footage: 2,917
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3 full, 1 half
Offering two full homes under one roof (and all under 3,000 square feet!) this design is inspired by the need for independent space with easy accessibility. A shared entry diverges into two separate homes, each with its own living, cooking and sleeping spaces — and all with the perks of log home design: “The St. Croix features stepped gables, a higher-than-normal vaulted ceiling over both great rooms, separate porch spaces and a three-car garage that has a bonus room above,” says Shannon Hersey, customer relations manager at Moosehead Cedar Log Homes.
