Fun & Functional: Multigenerational House Plans (2024)

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Fun & Functional: Multigenerational House Plans (1)

Check out these multigenerational house plans.

Fun & Functional: Multigenerational House Plans

By Courtney Pittman

It’s all about functionality and up-to-date features with these multigenerational house plans. Designed to house multiple families (or renters), these plans include a mix of duplex house plans and designs with in-law suites. Other highlights include relaxed spaces, island kitchens, and open layouts. Take a look at ten of our favorites.

Discover the full multigenerational house plans collection here.

Farmhouse Multigenerational House PlanFarmhouse Multigenerational House Plan - Front Exterior

Farmhouse Multigenerational House Plan - Main Floor Plan

This farmhouse design offers flexibility with private living quarters on the left wing of the plan. The main floor plan features a breezy layout that is bright and open. Check out the big pantry in the kitchen.

Near the front, the primary suite impresses with two walk-in closets. A Jack-and-Jill bathroom sits between two secondary bedrooms. Don’t miss the covered front porch or the nice back patio.

Traditional Multigenerational House PlanTraditional Multigenerational House Plan - Front Exterior

Traditional Multigenerational House Plan - Main Floor Plan

Traditional Multigenerational House Plan - Upper Floor Plan

Here’s a duplex house plan with traditional curb appeal. Inside, each unit boasts a super-efficient layout that is simple and open. The snack counter overlooks the great room and is ready for casual meals.

Upstairs, you'll find three bedrooms and a full bath.

Modern Multigenerational House PlanModern Multigenerational House Plan - Front Exterior

Modern Multigenerational House Plan - Main Floor Plan

Modern Multigenerational House Plan - Upper Floor Plan

Modern Multigenerational House Plan - Lower Floor Plan

Building on a narrow lot? Check out this modern duplex house plan. Lots of windows provide natural light and let you take in the view. The lower level includes a four-car garage and ample storage space (discover these garage storage tips from Family Handyman). Matching three-bedroom apartments wait on the second and third levels.

We love the open gathering areas – which include an island kitchen and a large living space. The primary suite takes center stage with an extra-big shower (with two shower heads). Enjoy the fresh air on the nice balcony.

Multigenerational House Plan with CasitaMultigenerational House Plan with Casita - Front Exterior

Multigenerational House Plan with Casita - Main Floor Plan

Multigenerational House Plan with Casita - Upper Floor Plan

Just 40 feet wide, this practical plan is designed for a tight lot. The generous family room features a fireplace and opens to the dining room and the kitchen. An island in the kitchen is ready for relaxed meals. Check out the thoughtful pocket office (take a look at these office ideas from Country Living).

Upstairs, a roomy shower and dual sinks highlight the homeowner’s suite. Two more bedrooms share a hall bath. Nearby but accessed through its own entrance downstairs, the casita includes an efficient living space with a kitchen, a bedroom, and a full bath (with a walk-in closet).

Multigenerational House Plan with Small UnitMultigenerational House Plan with Small Unit - Front Exterior

Multigenerational House Plan with Small Unit - Main Floor Plan

This duplex is a great choice for a live-in relative (or even a renter). On the left, a one-bedroom unit features an open living space with a kitchen, a full bath, and its own private entrance. On the right, the larger unit gives you a modern floor plan with an island kitchen and a big pantry.

Ready to impress, the primary suite boasts a luxe bathroom and a convenient seat in the walk-in closet. A covered porch adds indoor/outdoor living.

Duplex Multigenerational House PlanDuplex Multigenerational House Plan - Front Exterior

Duplex Multigenerational House Plan - Main Floor Plan

Duplex Multigenerational House Plan - Upper Floor Plan

Here’s a duplex design with cool farmhouse style. Mirrored identical units each showcase an open floor plan on the main floor. An island in the kitchen is a modern touch.

The covered back patio is a nice place to unwind. Upstairs, the primary suite features a private bathroom with a large walk-in closet. Two more bedrooms and a bath wait down the hall.

Multigenerational House Plan with Open LayoutMultigenerational House Plan with Open Layout - Front Exterior

Multigenerational House Plan with Open Layout - Main Floor Plan

Multigenerational House Plan with Open Layout - Upper Floor Plan

Check out this streamlined duplex house plan. Inside, the vibe is relaxed. The kitchen island conveniently serves the open dining area and the great room. Sliding glass doors access a small patio out back.

Three bedrooms (one with a walk-in closet) complete the upper level, along with a full bathroom.

Multigenerational House Plan with Wraparound PorchMultigenerational House Plan with Wraparound Porch - Front Exterior

Multigenerational House Plan with Wraparound Porch - Main Floor Plan

Multigenerational House Plan with Wraparound Porch - Upper Floor Plan

A wraparound porch decorates the exterior of this country style duplex plan. A fireplace warms the open family room. More smart touches include a thoughtful drop zone, a large back deck, and an optional built-in seat in the family room.

On the second floor, the owner’s suite is dressed up with a spacious shower and a walk-in closet. An additional bedroom, along with a full bath, shares the second floor.

Three-Bedroom Multigenerational House PlanThree-Bedroom Multigenerational House Plan - Front Exterior

Three-Bedroom Multigenerational House Plan - Main Floor Plan

Three-Bedroom Multigenerational House Plan - Upper Floor Plan

This three-bedroom Craftsman style duplex features two matching units with efficient layouts. The U-shaped kitchen overlooks the living room and the breakfast nook. A coat closet in the foyer is a welcome amenity.

Conveniently located on the second floor, the laundry is steps away from the primary suite (and the two secondary bedrooms).

Multigenerational House Plan with Pocket OfficeMultigenerational House Plan with Pocket Office - Front Exterior

Multigenerational House Plan with Pocket Office - Main Floor Plan

Multigenerational House Plan with Pocket Office - Upper Floor Plan

Here’s a multigenerational house plan that gives you lots of flexibility. The casita on the first floor offers privacy with an open kitchen/living area, a bedroom, a full bath, a pocket office, and its own entrance. Also on this level in the larger part of the home, the island kitchen features easy access to the dining room.

Store items in the well-organized drop zone next to the two-car garage. Two secondary bedrooms, a full bath, and the deluxe owner’s suite wait upstairs. Like to grill? Check out the optional back deck.

Explore more multigenerational house plans here.

Fun & Functional: Multigenerational House Plans (2024)

FAQs

How big should a multigenerational home be? ›

Some of the best multigenerational, or 4500 to 5000 square foot, floor plans keep versatility, privacy, and functionality in mind. Because there are various ages and family members with different special needs living under one roof, a floorplan must consider all the possible scenarios for a large or growing family.

Are multigenerational homes a good idea? ›

The Benefits of Multi-Generational Living

That's especially important for elderly residents, as a number of studies have demonstrated a link between longevity and social interaction. If grandparents and grandkids are living under the same roof, it also allows those two generations to create deeper connections.

What is a 3 generation home? ›

Three-generation: The most common multigenerational household arrangement consists of three generations – typically one or more working-age adults, one or more of their children (who may also be adults), and either aging parent(s) or grandchildren.

What are some disadvantages of multi-gen homes? ›

There are also disadvantages of multi-generation households.
  • Less Privacy. “Living with others may be more difficult for grandparents and young adults who are accustomed to living alone.
  • More Noise. ...
  • More Housework. ...
  • Need for Upgrade or Remodeling.

Who is least likely to live in a multigenerational household? ›

White Americans have the lowest share of people living in multigenerational households.
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander. 19.9%
  • American Indian and Alaska Native. 14.9%
  • Asian. 13.5%
  • Hispanic. 13.2%
  • Black or African American. 11.2%
  • Some other race. 8.8%
  • Two or more races. 8.6%
  • Total US. 6.8%
Dec 5, 2023

What percentage of Americans live in multigenerational homes? ›

Multigenerational households — three or more generations under one roof — made up 4.7% of all U.S. households but 7.2% of family households in 2020, an increase from 2010. Family households are those with at least one person related to the householder by birth, marriage or adoption.

What are the trends in multigenerational households? ›

From 2010 to 2020, there was a nearly 18 percent increase in the number of multigenerational households. The research arm of the apartment listing and resident services company RentCafe went granular on Gen Z and found that 68 percent over the age of 18 still live with a parent or parents.

What are the challenges of multigenerational household? ›

Drawbacks of a multigenerational household

Differences in opinions, lifestyles, lack of privacy and routines can cause tension and disagreements. It is important to establish clear communication and boundaries to avoid conflicts and maintain healthy relationships.

What do you call a multi-generational home? ›

Multigenerational households are defined as including two or more adult generations (with adults mainly ages 25 or older) or a “skipped generation,” which consists of grandparents and their grandchildren younger than 25.

What is the difference between intergenerational and multigenerational? ›

It helps to draw on the distinction that 'multigenerational' reflects the generational characteristics while 'intergenerational' is a reflection of the exchanges between the generations and the impact of mutual influences among the generations (Villar, 2007) .

What is a multi-gen kitchen? ›

A 'multi-generational' kitchen is the official term that is being used within the kitchen industry for family kitchens specifically designed to suit the needs of different generations who are living together in the same home.

How much space does a 4 person family need? ›

You want to make sure each person living in the home has enough space to be happy and healthy. If you're a family of four, multiply 4 x 600. That would mean you should look for homes around 2,400 square feet.

What are the disadvantages of multigenerational households? ›

There are also disadvantages of multi-generation households.
  • Less Privacy. “Living with others may be more difficult for grandparents and young adults who are accustomed to living alone.
  • More Noise. ...
  • More Housework. ...
  • Need for Upgrade or Remodeling.

What is the ideal size house for a family of 2? ›

How To Calculate What Size House You Need
Number of PeopleSquare Footage
1600 sq. ft.
21,200 sq. ft.
31,800 sq. ft.
42,400 sq. ft.
Oct 27, 2022

How much space does a family of 5 need? ›

A smart way to figure out the ideal house size is to think in square feet per person. Will you feel comfortable having 400 square feet, 500 square feet, 800 square feet, or 1,000 square feet of space to yourself? I believe the ideal square feet per person is about 600 – 700.

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