There are multiple benefits to multigenerational living and they’re not all about finances or convenience. Photo: Aleksandar Georgiev.
Multigenerational living has long been on the rise and one expert says the trend is about more than saving money or free childcare.
Sunny Homes director Sunny Malhotra says multigenerational living – where more than one generation of a family lives under one roof – is a way people can afford the neighbourhood and lifestyle they want, but there are other equally important motivations.
“In many migrant cultures, families do grow up together in the same households. In some Asian, European and South Asian countries it’s not uncommon for grandparents, uncles and aunts, adult children and grandchildren to live together in all sorts of combinations. That comes with a lot of benefits,” he says.
“It eases the pressure of social isolation for starters. Imagine coming home after a busy day at work and being able to have a cup of tea and a chat with your mum.
“For some families, giving children access to multiple generations also helps with cultural enrichment, life skills and schooling. As they say, it takes a village.”
Having extended family under one roof is also a wonderful boon for busy parents who often have to say no to events, or blow their date night budget on a babysitter.
“The fact is parents work, but kids get sick frequently, or they have extracurricular activities they need to attend during work hours, they need pick-ups and drop-offs and family around simply to be with them,” Sunny says.
But historically, one of the biggest concerns for families considering multigenerational living arrangements has been the potential sacrifice of privacy.
This doesn’t need to be the case, according to Sunny. He says it’s a question of finding a developer who knows the configurations that work for this lifestyle.
“Three years back a family was looking for a home in Taylor and their elderly father pitched in financially. He wanted to help and didn’t want his children and grandchildren to have to wait for an inheritance to do so. They found a place with a unit separate from the property where he could live, while the family lived in the main four-bedroom home,” Sunny says.
“That’s the kind of ideal situation that sets you up for success – the ability to come together when you want, but enjoy your privacy when you need.”
Sunny Homes has multiple builds ideal for multigenerational families, in central locations close to schools, shops and amenities.
One configuration proving particularly popular among these buyers is the kind of dual occupancy arrangement found at the now sold 13 Maggie Scott Terrace, Whitlam.
Here, the main four-bedroom, two-bathroom home sits on the lower level, with a spacious open-plan living and dining area that’s perfect for family gatherings and shared moments across generations.
Meanwhile, a one or two-bedroom granny flat with its own kitchen, TV room and laundry occupies the upper floor, with a separate entry.
These homes feature a designer kitchen with a walk-in pantry and quality appliances – ideal for preparing meals together, whether it’s a quick breakfast or a big family dinner.
There’s a separate media room and dedicated study nook, offering space for both quiet learning and entertainment without disruption.
“We also incorporate a seamless indoor-outdoor connection with a covered alfresco, making it easy to enjoy fresh air and host family BBQs or celebrations,” Sunny says.
“We find this is perfect for spending special occasions together – with the whole family right there, everyone can have a great time and then retire to their space.”
The homes also offer energy-efficient inclusions and modern finishes throughout, ensuring year-round comfort and lower running costs for the whole family. These include 13Kw solar panels, an electric heat pump hot water system, an electric vehicle charging provision, zoned ducted reverse cycle heating and cooling downstairs and a split system air-conditioning upstairs.
Additional features include a security camera system and sensor security lighting in all external areas, so everyone feels safe.
“The idea is they don’t need to come together, but they can. Autonomy and privacy can coexist connection – families can be near to each other, but still have their individual spaces,” Sunny says.
“We have found growing families love this arrangement. It allows grandparents the chance to spend more quality time with the grandkids, so they can help in their learning journey. At the same time it suits the families with aged parents who need regular care.
“It’s also been a popular option for savvy buyers looking to rent the granny flat out for an additional income stream, to help pay off the mortgage quicker.”
For more information visit Sunny Homes.
