Multigenerational living is on the upswing, and like any coliving situation, it can require some extra care to make sure things run smoothly. Here are some tips to help you and your family make the most of your multigenerational household:

A grandfather and granddaughter enjoy some quality time together by the pool.

Communicate!

First things first: communication is key. No matter the situation or who it involves. 

Passive-aggressive comments or post-its left in public areas don’t make anyone feel good. Rather than letting a minor issue fester and turn into resentment, address your worries head-on.

Maybe you want to set up a weekly check-in where everyone in the household has an opportunity to share what’s working or not working for them, or maybe you just need to switch up responsibilities. This brings us to our next point…

Set ground rules 

It’s all too easy for chores to go ignored when there’s no system in place to hold everyone accountable. Chore wheels can be a fun way to keep things interesting, but an even more sustainable solution is for everyone to be tasked with the jobs that they enjoy the most (believe it or not, some people don’t mind taking out the trash). 

For example, if Grandma struggles with arthritis, she shouldn’t be stuck with hauling heavy baskets full of laundry. 

Some other house rules could include: quiet hours from 9 pm to 9 am, always ask before borrowing something that doesn’t belong to you, and whoever is up last should make sure all the lights are turned off. Like our manufactured homes, all families are unique, so take the time to consider everyone’s tendencies to figure out what works best for you. 

Quality time and alone time 

In any coliving situation, alone time is crucial to make sure everyone has time to rest, reflect, and recharge. But carving out quality time together is just as important. You’re likely to be around one another by default most of the time, so intentionally planning activities altogether(and in small groups or pairs) helps keep bonds strong and communication lines open.

Respect each other’s privacy

Alone time can be difficult to find if there isn’t a space for every member of the household to retreat to when they need some peace and quiet. That’s one of the main reasons we started building manufactured homes and Little Houses back in 2008. 

Our Home Care Cottages and ADUs allow you to keep your loved ones close as they grow old, without sacrificing your autonomy (or theirs!).

So whether it’s a small reading nook, a spot in the backyard, or a backyard prefab, make sure everyone in the house has a special place to call their own. It’ll only help bring you closer together.