More Canberra families than ever are choosing to live under one roof, spanning multiple generations. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, three-generational households increased by 22% between 2016 and 2021, with around one in five Australians now residing in multi-generational homes. 

Whether it’s adult children returning home, ageing parents moving in, or young families seeking support from grandparents, this living arrangement is becoming increasingly common across Canberra and Queanbeyan. 

For many families, this living arrangement offers both practical and emotional benefits—shared childcare responsibilities, reduced living costs, and the invaluable presence of multiple generations under one roof.

However, harmonious multi-generational living doesn’t happen by accident. It requires thoughtful planning, clever design, and an understanding of how different age groups interact with their living spaces. 

As experienced custom home builders in Canberra, we’ve helped numerous households create homes that balance togetherness with privacy, accessibility with independence.

Why Multi-Generational Living Is on the Rise

The shift towards multi-generational households reflects several social and economic factors. Rising property prices in the Canberra region have made it harder for young adults to enter the housing market independently. 

Meanwhile, Australia’s ageing population means more families are choosing to care for elderly relatives at home rather than in aged care facilities. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the value of having family nearby during uncertain times.

For many Canberra families, the solution isn’t finding a bigger house elsewhere—it’s reimagining their current property or building a custom home that accommodates everyone comfortably from the start.

Design Considerations for Multi-Generational Homes

Creating a successful multi-generational home begins with understanding that different age groups have different needs. The key is designing spaces that provide both communal areas for family interaction and private zones where individuals can retreat.

1. Privacy and Independence

One of the most critical aspects of multi-generational living is ensuring each generation has its own space. This might mean incorporating a separate entrance, a self-contained granny flat, or a private wing with its own living area, bedroom, and ensuite. 

Our design team specialises in creating floor plans that offer this balance, ensuring that elderly parents or adult children can maintain their independence whilst still being part of the family unit.

Consider including soundproofing between zones, especially between children’s play areas and spaces where older residents might rest. Visual privacy is equally important—strategic placement of windows, courtyards, and garden areas can create natural separation without physical barriers.

2. Accessibility and Universal Design

When planning for multi-generational living, think long-term. Today’s active grandparents may need additional support in years to come, so incorporating universal design principles from the start is wise. 

This includes wider doorways and hallways to accommodate wheelchairs or walking frames, step-free entries, and at least one bedroom and bathroom on the ground floor.

Lever-style door handles, slip-resistant flooring, adequate lighting, and handrails in key areas aren’t just for elderly residents—they make life easier for everyone, from parents carrying babies to children learning to walk. 

Our team can integrate these features seamlessly into your family home design without compromising on aesthetics.

3. Shared and Private Living Spaces

While private retreats are essential, shared spaces form the heart of multi-generational living. A spacious kitchen that accommodates multiple cooks, an open-plan living area that allows different activities to occur simultaneously, and outdoor entertaining spaces where everyone can gather are all valuable inclusions.

Consider creating multiple living zones—perhaps a formal lounge for adults and a casual family room where children can play. 

Our kitchen and bathroom renovation expertise ensures these high-traffic areas are both functional and beautiful, with enough storage and workspace to prevent conflict during busy times.

4. Practical Layout Ideas

Successful multi-generational homes often feature creative layout solutions. A ground-floor master suite with ensuite gives elderly parents or grandparents easy access to their own space without navigating stairs. 

Alternatively, a separate studio or granny flat connected to the main house provides independence whilst keeping family close.

For homes with multiple storeys, consider installing a lift or ensuring the staircase is wide enough to accommodate a stairlift in future. Dual kitchens or kitchenettes in different zones allow for flexible meal preparation without overcrowding. Separate laundry facilities can also reduce friction in busy households.

Legal Requirements in the ACT and NSW

Before embarking on a multi-generational home project in Canberra or Queanbeyan, it’s essential to understand the relevant planning and building regulations. 

In the ACT, adding a secondary dwelling or making significant modifications to your existing home typically requires development approval. The Territory Plan outlines specific requirements regarding dwelling size, setbacks, and parking provisions.

Similarly, in Queanbeyan and surrounding NSW areas, local council regulations govern secondary dwellings, with specific criteria around minimum lot sizes, floor area limits, and parking requirements. 

Engaging experienced home builders in Canberra who residents rely on ensures these regulatory requirements are met from the outset. Our team manages the entire approval process, liaising with relevant authorities to secure necessary permits and ensure compliance with all building codes.

Navigating Family Dynamics Through Design

Beyond the physical structure, thoughtful design can help manage the inevitable challenges of multi-generational living. Clear boundaries—both physical and social—are easier to maintain when the home’s layout supports them. 

Separate entries mean adult children can come and go without disturbing parents. Dedicated storage spaces prevent belongings from encroaching on shared areas.

Consider practical matters like utility bills and running costs. Energy-efficient design features such as solar panels, high-quality insulation, and efficient heating and cooling systems can significantly reduce ongoing expenses—an important consideration when multiple families are sharing costs.

Think about how the household will function daily. Where will schoolchildren do homework? Is there space for a home office for working parents? Can grandparents comfortably host their own visitors without disrupting the entire household? Addressing these questions during the design phase prevents frustration later.

Making Multi-Generational Living Work

Successful multi-generational living is about more than just square metres—it’s about creating a home where every family member feels valued, comfortable, and respected. The right design provides the foundation for harmony, but open communication and clear expectations are equally important.

At Design & Build Group, we understand that building or renovating for multi-generational living is a significant decision that impacts your entire family’s future. With over 25 years of experience delivering custom homes across Canberra and Queanbeyan, we bring both technical expertise and a genuine understanding of local family needs to every project.

Our end-to-end building service manages everything from initial concept through to final handover, ensuring your multi-generational home is built to the highest standards, on time and within budget. 

Whether you’re planning a knock-down rebuild, a substantial extension, or a brand new custom home, our team will work closely with you to create a space that works for your unique family situation.

Ready to Create Your Multi-Generational Home?

If you’re considering a home that accommodates your extended family comfortably, we’d love to help you explore the possibilities. Every family is different, and your home should reflect your specific needs and relationships.

Get in touch with our team today to discuss how we can help design and build a multi-generational home that brings your family together whilst respecting everyone’s need for space and independence. Let’s create a home that works beautifully for every generation under your roof.

ENQUIRE TODAY.