Extended Family

Overall, multigenerational living is still on the rise. The number of households with two or more adult generations has quadrupled over the past five decades, according to a Pew Research Center report based on census data from 1971 to 2021. Of course, financial concerns drive many individuals to adopt this lifestyle, but another factor is the desire to spend quality family time. 

Taking care of elderly parents plays a considerable role in the decision to live in a multigenerational home. The National Institute of Health found that healthy members of multigenerational families were likely to live longer, in part because of the increased physical and emotional support benefits for each member of the family.

Future Proofing Your Home

Building a new home in a master-planned community such as Devonshire presents an excellent opportunity to “future proof” the residence. A future-proofed home is a new home that adapts to a family’s changing needs. For example, families with smaller children may want all their bedrooms to be on one floor, but when they become teenagers (shredding on electric guitars!), parents might want a little more distance for some peace and quiet. 

It’s also a good idea to add a ground floor “en suite” (bedroom/bath) - whether to accommodate elderly parents or to prepare for your own senior years – should climbing the stairs become problematic. In addition, the width of doorways and hallways could be widened so that wheelchairs could pass through.

Here are several more future proofing suggestions:

Get Smart

Advances in technology have been known to render older tech products obsolete. Who doesn’t have an ancient desktop computer in their garage? Now more than ever, it’s important to ensure that your home stays up to date and able to accommodate new technology as it develops. If you’re going to incorporate a digital experience, experts tell you to do it at the front. Devonshire builders offer new homeowners the latest in “Smart Technology” that will continue to evolve as new products come on the market. 

Sustainable Living

Technology is advancing, and so is the trend towards sustainable living. To build with a focus on sustainability, new homeowners can install low-flow toilets in bathrooms, tank-less water heaters, and double-paned windows to help ensure energy efficiency. Many new homes are built with non-toxic spray insulation which keeps the heat in during colder temperatures and keeps your home cooler when temperatures are high. Future proofing a home in terms of sustainability includes considering current projections concerning climate change and weather.

Don't Leave a Footprint

Homeowners today are concerned about their carbon footprint. One of the top trends in 2023 is owning an eco-friendly home. This could include having solar panels installed to reduce reliance on the electrical grid. Many new homes use 100% acrylic, low volatile organic compounds (VOC) paints because they’re more eco-friendly, odorless, and far less toxic to home occupants. Other trends include homes designed to be electric vehicle charging enabled.

Flexibility is Key

Ask yourself what you need right now and how that might change in five or more years. New homes need to adapt to the changing lifestyles of the families who live there. What was once a playroom for young children becomes a media room / school room for adolescents, then eventually a workout space or a home office for empty nesters. 

Farther along, it may become an extra bedroom for adult children who are returning or for elderly parents who may require more care. The bottom line is that multi-functionality is an important part of any future proof home design. 

The Future IS Now

If you’re considering a multigenerational lifestyle, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. Existing homeowners should also consider the necessity of paying for costly renovations to accommodate future household members. Drawbacks could include less privacy, noise, and extra household chores. 

The advantages to a future proof home are many - both practical and personal. Many families report that a top advantage is the ability to share expenses. Homes with two adult generations are more economical because the bills – groceries, utilities, and home maintenance - are shared. Multigenerational living arrangements also have personal benefits many find rewarding, like grandparents helping with younger children, strengthening existing family bonds. 

When looking for a forever home, think about what future proofing would mean for you. Remember, the future is NOW! 

Devonshire homes offer many multigenerational designs for your review. Why not see for yourself? Click here to see what Devonshire has to offer you!