How Historic Precedents Shape Today’s Residential Design
American society expects more from women today than ever before – as mothers, managers, leaders, creators, and problem solvers. These rising expectations require family members to work together, with extended family members taking on more active and crucial roles and providing support within the household. Multigenerational living has emerged as a key growth opportunity for residential development, leading us to reevaluate the way we think about home design. As housing costs soar and wages remain stagnant, economics often drive this trend, however the social connections forged within multigenerational households also create powerful and long-lasting benefits.
While often considered a contemporary and outlying trend, multigenerational living is deeply rooted in history. Prior to the post-World War II era, multiple generations commonly lived together under one roof. Extended families chose to cohabitate for economic, cultural, and social reasons—sharing resources, responsibilities, and providing mutual support. These households typically included grandparents, parents, children, and sometimes even uncles, aunts, and cousins. In many cultures around the world, multigenerational living continues to be integral to family structure. This arrangement often fosters a strong sense of community, with each generation contributing its unique perspective and skills. Elders provide wisdom, childcare, and economic stability, while younger family members bring energy, innovation, and physical support. In contrast, the mid-20th century saw a shift toward the nuclear family model in many Western countries, largely driven by suburban sprawl, economic prosperity, and the desire for privacy and autonomy.
The societal forces that once led to the decline of multigenerational living are shifting once again. In recent years, economic pressures, changing social values, and an aging population have rekindled interest in this living arrangement. The pandemic, for instance, underscored the importance of close-knit families, especially when caring for vulnerable elders or managing financial strain. As a result, multigenerational living has experienced a resurgence. In response to this trend, KTGY’s Research and Development Studio studied a variety of design solutions, at a range of scales and densities, addressing the varied needs of multigenerational households.
Multigenerational Living in the Suburbs
As an expansion of a typical single-family home, accessory dwelling units offers a solution for multiple generations to live together while balancing privacy and proximity. Adding value to existing homes or as a ground-up design for newly constructed communities, many jurisdictions welcome this strategy as it supports housing attainability in neighborhoods zoned for single-family housing. By connecting smaller units with larger homes, combined family units can support each other, while maintaining the privacy they desire. KTGY’s R+D design concept, Ensemble, further examines combining smaller and larger units within a single lot. Small units ideal for young adults or move-down couples sit adjacent to the larger family home, creating a relationship that supports a positive multigenerational experience. Beyond the walls of these homes, outdoor and community spaces become a critical component for the success of multigenerational living. Shared outdoor courtyard spaces extend the indoor living areas and encourage social connections within the community.
Multigenerational Multifamily Design
Higher-density multifamily housing serves an important and growing segment of the population, with increased density creating cost efficiency and allowing residents to live closer to commercial and employment opportunities. However, many of these residential developments are designed to primarily accommodate small or single-person households. According to 2023 U.S. Census Bureau data, the median size of multifamily units built for rent was just 998 square feet, while those built for sale had a median size of 1,345 square feet. As a solution for multigenerational living in multifamily buildings, KTGY’s R+D Studio proposed Family Flat: a single, 2,540-square-foot multigenerational unit. The Family Flat unit plan design includes two individual suites with access from a secondary entrance that connect internally to a larger family unit. Housing up to ten family members, the multigenerational household shares a kitchen, dining, and living space along with laundry and storage areas. An additional flex room can function as a workspace, playroom, or exercise area, providing functionality and flexibility as families grow and change.
As we move forward into an era of more interconnected, diverse family structures, the role of residential architecture in shaping multigenerational living becomes increasingly critical. By understanding the historical roots and contemporary needs of multigenerational households, designers can offer both connection and independence, ensuring that families have the flexibility and support they need to thrive. As these living arrangements continue to evolve, the built environment must evolve with them—designing for a future where every generation can coexist harmoniously.
