Multigenerational goes mainstream: How shared living is reshaping Australian home design

As more Australians look to accommodate multiple generations under one roof, the family home is being reimagined.Australians choosing to build a home are increasingly favouring designs that can accommodate multi-generational living. Image: GettyFrom ageing parents moving in with adult children to younger generations staying home longer, households are finding new ways to live together – and builders are seeing the shift reflected in the floor plans families are requesting.But while buyers may once have prioritised sheer square footage and expansive living areas, three major Australian builders are now seeing a growing emphasis on something more considered: privacy.For families building now, the most sought-after designs are increasingly those that allow generations to share a home without sacrificing their independence.Together, but with room to retreat"Home buyers considering a multigenerational home are typically looking for a 'together, but separate' arrangement, where the layout fosters connection without compromising daily autonomy," said G.J. Gardner Homes lead designer Peter Mannion.He said the standout feature for homes being planned for 2027 is the self-contained secondary...