As the nature of families evolves, more households in Western Australia are opting for multi-generational living. The concept revolves around creating a home that accommodates grandparents, parents, and children under one roof, ensuring each family member enjoys privacy, comfort, and accessibility. Here are some pivotal steps to remodel your home to suit a multi-generational family setup.
Build a Granny Flat
If outdoor space permits, constructing a granny flat can be an exceptional solution. These separate living quarters offer invaluable independence, space, and privacy for grandparents, parents, or older teenagers. Granny flats often include essential amenities such as a small kitchen, bathroom, and living space, fostering a sense of autonomy while keeping family members close.
Retrofit an Elevator
Installing a residential elevator offers unbeatable accessibility and mobility, making it easier to transport items and safer for older generations. The risk of falls is significantly reduced, ensuring peace of mind for the entire family. West Coast Elevators’ exclusive innovations such as LEO (Lock Elevator Operation) add an extra layer of safety, particularly for homes with young children, while iNVER-iQ allows remote lift monitoring for prompt troubleshooting and repairs.
Read more: Can You Retrofit A Lift Inside Your Home?
Build a Second Storey
Adding a second storey is another compelling way to create additional space for bedrooms or an extra living area without compromising your outdoor area. This change not only provides room for everyone but also keeps your garden or backyard intact for communal activities. Moreover, it can significantly boost your property’s market value, making it a worthwhile investment.
Build an Extension
Utilising unused outdoor space to build an extension can yield larger living areas or additional bathrooms and expanded laundry spaces. Larger communal areas make daily interactions more comfortable, allowing the family to gather without feeling cramped. This expansion can transform your home into a more welcoming and practical environment for all ages.
Create a Second Entrance to the Home
Implementing a second entrance can drastically improve privacy and independence for different family units. Separate entrances allow older or younger generations to come and go as they please without disrupting others. This simple modification fosters a sense of independence while keeping family dynamics harmonious.
Remodel the Kitchen
The kitchen, often referred to as the heart of the home, needs to be reconsidered to serve a larger household effectively. Increasing the functionality by adding more cabinets, drawers, and pantries can cater to the storage needs of a bigger family. A spacious work area enables multiple cooks or kitchen helpers to work simultaneously. Moreover, installing a dishwasher can be a game-changer in managing the plethora of dishes. Opting for an open-plan design enhances the flow and interaction within this central space.
Add Safety Features
Ensuring that your home is safe for the older generation is paramount. Adding shower rails and benches, non-slip floor surfaces, increased lighting, handrails, and door levers instead of knobs can make a world of difference. These modifications not only provide safety but also enhance the day-to-day comfort of senior family members.
Utilise Unused Basement Space
A frequently overlooked area, the basement can be transformed into a retreat for parents or a play area for children. This cost-effective solution to create a new living space maximises the potential of your existing home, providing an additional layer of comfort and utility.
Outdoor Accessibility
Navigating outdoor stairs can be challenging for older generations or families with prams and young children. Installing a Crystal Mini Lift outside your home can ease mobility, making your property more accessible and family-friendly.
For families considering a remodel to accommodate multi-generational living, these solutions offer a blend of independence, comfort, and safety for all members. At West Coast Elevators, we specialise in enhancing your home’s accessibility and value. Contact us to explore how our tailored solutions can meet your family’s diverse needs.
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