What is a Multi Generational Home?
A multi generational home is a residence designed or arranged to house two or more adult generations under one roof, often parents, adult children, and grandparents. In other cases, it may consist of a skipped generation of grandparents raising grandchildren. These homes can take many forms, from a single large house with separate living areas to a primary residence paired with a smaller detached structure on the same property.
A Trend With Deep Roots
While multi generational living can feel like a modern housing trend, in actuality it harkens back to a much older norm. Extended families lived together for generations before mid century housing patterns pushed toward single family, single generation homes. However, the share of the U.S. population living in multigenerational households has more than doubled over the past five decades, rising from about 7 percent in 1971 to 18 percent by 2021 (according to the Pew Research Center).
The reasons families choose this arrangement vary widely. For some, it is financial, since rising home prices and elevated mortgage rates have made cost sharing an increasingly practical benefit of living together. For others, it is about caregiving, keeping aging parents close, or simply wanting more connection between generations. Recent data also shows a notable increase in parents moving in with their adult children compared to pre-pandemic trends, a pattern that shows no signs of slowing down.
Multi Generational Living in Northern Colorado
Northern Colorado’s mix of small towns, rural acreage, and growing suburban communities makes it a natural fit for multi generational households. Many families in the region already own larger lots with room to expand, whether that means a bigger primary home or an additional structure on the same property. Aging in place is also a common priority here, with many older adults hoping to stay near family rather than relocate, while younger family members appreciate the built in support system a shared property can offer.
How Custom On-Site Builders Designs for Multi Generational Families
There is no single blueprint for a multi generational home, and every family’s needs look a little different. Custom On-Site Builders works with clients to find the layout that fits their situation best.
For some families, that means designing a larger custom home with a private suite, a separate entrance, or a secondary living area built into the main structure so everyone has space to themselves while still sharing a roof. For others, an additional dwelling unit makes more sense, giving a parent or adult child their own compact, self contained space just steps from the main house. We also build barndominiums as a standalone option on the same property, offering a more rustic, flexible living space that works well for extended family or guests.
Whichever direction fits best, our approach starts with understanding how the family actually lives day to day, then designing a property that supports that.
Considering a Multi Generational Home?
A multi generational home can look different for every family, but the goal is usually the same: keeping loved ones close while giving everyone room to live comfortably. If you are exploring options for a multi generational home in Northern Colorado, Custom On-Site Builders can help you find the right approach for your property and your family. Request a callback today.
