With the rising population, inflation, and the increasing cost of living, many families are becoming concerned about their future and the future of their children. Baby boomers, in particular, find themselves at a crossroads. They own large homes that they no longer need as their children have moved out, yet those children find it challenging to afford homes near their parents. This creates a much-needed shift in how we think about housing.
What is a Multiplex?
A multiplex is a single building divided into multiple units, each with its separate entrance, kitchen, and living space. Unlike traditional multifamily homes, multiplexes offer the potential for families to live close together while maintaining their own private spaces.
Key Benefits of Multiplex Living
Enhanced Family Support:
One of the main advantages of multigenerational living is the support system it provides. Parents can help their children with childcare, and adult children can assist aging parents with day-to-day tasks.
Financial Efficiency:
Sharing a property can significantly reduce living expenses. With rising housing costs, this is a practical solution for many families.
Privacy and Independence:
Unlike the traditional idea of a big house where everyone lives under one roof, multiplexes allow each family unit to have its private space while being close to loved ones.
Sustainable Living:
Multiplexes can make better use of land in urban areas, contributing to more sustainable urban development.
How to Create a Multiplex Home
Assess Your Current Property:
Before making any changes, it's essential to assess your current property. Determine if your lot has the potential to be converted into a multiplex. Keep in mind that each municipality adopts different zoning laws based on factors like population, transit systems, and community centers.
Consult with Professionals:
Engage with architects and designers who can guide you on the potential of your lot. They can help you understand zoning laws and provide solutions to get the maximum potential out of your property.
Plan for Privacy and Shared Spaces:
Design the layout in a way that balances private and shared spaces. A small private yard might be a much-needed space for a young family, while shared areas can include gardens or recreational rooms.
Consider Future Needs:
Think about future-proofing your home. If you have three kids, converting your property into a fourplex might provide each child with a private unit in the future.
The Higgins family in North Delta serves as a perfect example of this alternative housing model. Faced with the high cost of housing in Metro Vancouver, they tore down their rancher and built four small homes on the same lot. Each of their three adult children now owns a home in the neighborhood they grew up in.
Kathleen Higgins, who spearheaded the project, emphasized that their primary goal was to ensure their children wouldn't have to settle for a cramped apartment. The density allowed them to downsize while staying close to their kids. This innovative approach garnered overwhelming community support, showing that such models could be a viable solution for many families.
Multiplexes offer a promising solution to the housing challenges faced by modern families. They provide a way to stay close to loved ones while maintaining privacy and independence. If you're a homeowner considering this shift, it's crucial to consult with a designer who can guide you through the process and help you maximize the potential of your lot.
Ready to explore the possibilities? Get in touch with our expert designers today to discuss how you can transform your property into a multigenerational haven.
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