Decades ago, it was expected that several generations from the same family would share the same home. Grandparents, parents, grandchildren and kids lived together, as systems like senior housing or daycares were not commonly available.

As time passed, single-family homes became the norm and the tradition of living between several generations on the same property was lost, at least in the West. However, in recent years, there's been a certain upswing in the popularity of intergenerational (or multigenerational) homes.

There isn't just one singular type of intergenerational home either. To the contrary, there is something for everyone's needs and preferences. Here are a few examples:

• A home with a separate apartment in the basement

• A yard with two separate homes (both the same size, or a tiny house with a regular house)

• A yard with two homes that are connected (semi-detached or houses connected by a room or a corridor)

• A large shared home

• A duplex/triplex/quadruplex with individual apartments

• A home extension built on an existing property

Municipal By-Laws Regarding Building Multigenerational Homes

If you decide to undertake a construction or remodelling project on an intergenerational home, it will be important for you to be aware of the rules that are currently in effect. Each city has its own rules and laws, so you shouldn't rely on just any piece of information that you may have found on the Internet.

Inquire with your municipal authorities and have written proof of all the information that you receive. Normally, architects and contractors with whom you do business should be aware of these rules, but you cannot take this for granted, especially since the rules can change over time!

10 Examples of Bi-Generational Homes to Inspire You

1- Two single-family homes on a property

Photo: MyMove

To begin with, a property that hosts two single-family homes is an interesting example of a multigenerational home. The main home is occupied by the family with children, whilst the smaller home is used as a dwelling for the grandparents.

While there is typically a discrepancy in home sizes, with the larger residence designated for the family with children and the smaller for the grandparents, each home meets the specific needs of its occupants. The shared yard features amenities such as a pool, spa, and cozy patio, providing enjoyment for all members of the family.

2- A basement apartment for the in-laws

Photo: House and Home

In some cases, a separate suite is built in the basement of the home. This involves having to find a way to create a living space that is welcoming and full of natural light. If you are already a homeowner, you may consider a basement refurbishing project.

Otherwise, if you decide to work with a real estate agent to buy a new home, having a basement may become conditional.

3- A bi-generational home with a separate ground-floor apartment

Photo: The Design Files

This house contains two living spaces that can be separated or connected, according to the needs and preferences of the occupants. The property is modern, luminous, and built according to eco-friendly principles.

The building's design also makes it possible to create spaces that foster family moments and other areas that allow the occupants to enjoy their privacy.

4- Shared and private: two connected homes 

Photo: Williamson Williamson

Would you prefer to share a yard while having separate homes? Here is a type of multigenerational household that you may like. The two homes are connected in the middle, but they are still almost completely independent one from the other.

On a daily basis, the families can live separately. They only meet up when favourable. This is perfect for those who want their autonomy while still being in close proximity if someone needs help.

5- A multi-family townhouse 

Photo: Ben Rahn / A-Frame Inc.

While your first image of a multigenerational home might be in a suburban or rural setting, here is an example that is located in a somewhat dense urban area. Among the other challenges that one may face when choosing to build this type of house in an urban setting, one must also think about the fact that municipal by-laws can be obstacles with which we have to deal or be bypassed in some way or another.

This is what happened during the building process of this property, and the architects found great compromises that pleased the homeowners whilst still abiding by the law.

6- Two-in-one family home!

Photo: TICA architecture

Four generations share this lovely property. Like in several above-shown examples, this building is divided into two dwellings, the difference being that in this case, several areas are shared between the occupants, such as the basement cellar, ground-floor workshop, as well as the exterior terrace.

The building was also designed to maximize the amount of land available so that the family can fully benefit from the outdoor area. Located on the edge of the water, the house is also very airy and luminous. These are some great characteristics that should please several generations!

7- A manufactured, intergenerational home

Photo: Minicucci architecte

If you're having a hard time finding the ideal multigenerational household, why not buy land and build a new dwelling that will fulfill your needs? You can hire an architect to draw up the plan from scratch, choosing for yourself whether you have separate entrances, living rooms, dining spaces, and more, or buy a manufactured, pre-designed home, as shown in the example hereabove.

8- An ultra-modern shared home

Photo: Howeler Yoon

Are you a contemporary architecture buff? Here is an intergenerational home that you should like. All the members of this extended family live under the same roof. However, this does not mean that they are stepping on each other's toes!

The house is big, airy, and designed with three parts, which include bedrooms, the living area, and another set of bedrooms.

9- An eco-friendly, bi-generational home

Photo: Ecohabitation - Charles O'Hara photographer

Most of the examples that we have presented in this article are real homes located around the world, but here is a multigenerational home that has been designed and built right here in Canada. TERGOS architecture + construction is the firm that is behind the conception and development of this impressively-designed home.

The building is divided into two sections, including a part that is a single-storey section and another that is spread out over two floors. The young family lives in the second part whilst the parents are housed on the ground floor.

10- A warm and cozy intergenerational home

Photo: Apartment Therapy

When looking to build a multigenerational home in a densely populated area, one needs to be daring and creative. It's even more complicated when you want to integrate green spaces, a true tour de force that has been achieved in this case by the home builders. There are no fewer than four terraces and garden areas surrounding the home.

These spaces become places of gathering for family members that share the home. The household is split into two sections, including the main area where the young family lives and the separate suite that houses the grandparents.

Multigenerational Homes - FAQ

What is the benefits of living in multigenerational home?

Living in a multigenerational household offers numerous benefits beyond just financial savings. It fosters a sense of closeness and support among family members, as everyone is readily available to help each other when needed.

Additionally, it provides an opportunity for intergenerational bonding and learning, especially in today's technologically driven world, where older generations can impart valuable wisdom and younger ones can offer assistance with modern technology.

Furthermore, the arrangement allows for practical support, such as childcare and assistance with daily tasks, which can significantly ease the burden of aging or physical constraints. Contrary to common concerns about privacy, multigenerational homes are often designed with separate living spaces, ensuring that each member retains their autonomy while still enjoying the benefits of close familial relationships.

What are some disadvantages of multi gen homes?

Living in a multigenerational home presents challenges such as establishing rules to maintain harmony among family members. Discussions about sensitive topics like finances, household responsibilities, a possible lack of privacy, and personal space are crucial to prevent conflicts.

Compatibility among family members, including relationships between parents and spouses, must also be carefully evaluated to ensure smooth cohabitation. Failure to address these issues upfront can lead to ongoing tensions and disagreements within the household.

Read more about the pros and cons of multigenerational homes here, in our article.

How common are multi gen homes in Canada?

As previously stated, there's been a significant rise in popularity in intergenerational homes. In fact, according to The Walrus, "there are almost 442,000 multigenerational households [in Canada], according to the 2021 census, a number that has swollen by about 50 percent since 2001."

Several factors explain this phenomenon including the ever-increasing cost of living, especially housing costs, an aging population with a rising life expectancy, and a change in the country's demographic makeup with many immigrant communities coming from cultures where multiple generations cohabiting is already the norm.

What is the Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit?

The Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit (MHRTC) is a recently introduced refundable tax credit, outlined in the 2022 budget. Its aim is to provide financial assistance for home renovations aimed at establishing a secondary unit to accommodate a qualifying relative.

Under this credit scheme, you're eligible to receive a reimbursement of 15% of the total cost of your renovations, capped at $50,000. Put simply, if your renovation expenses amount to $50,000 or more, the maximum claimable amount is $7,500 (calculated as $50,000 x 15%). For expenditures below this threshold, the credit remains at 15% of your qualifying costs.