Multigenerational living, multiple adult generations sharing a home, is increasingly common in the Seattle area, driven by housing costs, aging parents, and cultural preferences. Thoughtful design makes it work. Here is how.
Design Approaches for Multigenerational Living
In-law suite within the home:
A private bedroom, bathroom, and sometimes a kitchenette, integrated into the main house but with its own zone.
Detached ADU:
A fully separate dwelling for maximum independence and privacy. See our ADU service.
Dual primary suites:
Two equal primary bedroom suites for two couples or generations.
Separate entrances:
A private entrance for the secondary suite preserves independence.
Privacy and Acoustics
Successful multigenerational design balances togetherness and privacy. Strategies include locating suites at opposite ends of the home, sound-insulating shared walls, and creating separate living or sitting areas so generations can have their own space.
Planning a project?
Working out what your lot will allow, and what it will cost?
Send David the address and a few lines about what you want. The first feasibility check is free and usually takes about a day: what the site and the code are likely to allow, and what to check first.
Architect since 1996, member of the AIA and NCARB. Three Masonry Excellence Awards for commercial projects; the Carr residence was featured in Above The Lake and Lux magazines.
Accessibility for Aging Parents
If the home will house aging parents, incorporate universal design: a no-step entry, a ground-floor suite, wider doorways, and an accessible bathroom. See our aging in place design guide.
Kitchen Strategy
Decide whether the secondary suite needs a full kitchen, a kitchenette, or shared use of the main kitchen. A full second kitchen may trigger ADU classification with its own permit path.
Related guide: Why Civic Architecture Needs a Different Process.
