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: Getty
From 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.
"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 master suite, typically incorporating an ensuite, walk-in wardrobe and private sitting area or kitchenette.
Whether a knock-down rebuild or home in a brand-new estate, builders are being asked to show options for layouts that can accommodate older relatives. Image: Getty
At JG King Homes, executive general manager Karen Cooper says buyers are also seeking separate living areas for each generation.
“Zoned living is the big one,” she said.
“It's about giving everyone the choice between time together and time to themselves."
“We’re seeing a lot of buyers add bedrooms with their own ensuite and robe. Often there’s room alongside for a small kitchenette or bar area so grandparents can make a cup of tea or coffee without heading to the main kitchen.”
But the emphasis on separation doesn’t mean sacrificing shared family life.
"The family and meals area becomes the heart of the home where everyone comes together. Then, if they want to, each generation can head off to its own part of the house."
G.J. Gardner has seen significant growth in demand for multigenerational homes over the past three years, with Mr Mannion citing housing affordability, high rents and tight vacancy rates as contributing factors.
"This type of buyer has also shifted, from households accommodating ageing parents to more parents living with adult children and dynamic duos – such as siblings or parents and adult children – pooling their borrowing power."
Ms Cooper said the trend is extending beyond communities where shared living has traditionally been more common.
"Now, with the cost of living where it is, a much broader range of Australian families are designing their homes with ageing parents in mind," she said.
Beyond the layout itself, buyers are also thinking carefully about the practicalities of sharing a home. Mr Mannion points to requests for soundproof wall insulation and solid-core internal doors, while Ms Cooper is seeing demand for second kitchens, with butler's pantries being fitted out as working kitchens.
“With more people under one roof, there are a lot more mouths to feed,” Ms Cooper said.
G.J. Gardner has developed two ranges to meet this growing demand: its Dual Living Range and newer Prestige Series.
“The Dual-Living series offers complete independence with two separate dwellings under a single roofline. This includes separate entries, individual kitchens, and independent living spaces,” Mr Mannion said.
This arrangement also offers the flexibility to rent out the second dwelling.
Meanwhile, the Prestige Series includes the popular Colorado, a double-storey design with a dedicated ground-floor guest suite and ensuite, and the Hotham, which separates the home into three wings around a central courtyard.
JG King’s Williams 47 , from its Alpha range, is the company’s number-one-selling home in metro Melbourne.
“Downstairs, the grandparents have their own bedroom right next to their own living area. The rest of the family gets two more living areas downstairs and a huge rumpus upstairs,” Ms Cooper said.
“All our homes can be modified to suit, too. Whether it’s a single or double storey, we can add an extra ensuite and living space.”
In Western Australia, ABN Group's Celebration Homes is hearing similar requests.
Sales development manager Jeet Singh identifies the extra guest suite as the standout feature, ideally incorporating a small living area, kitchenette and separate entrance for visiting relatives.
The builder is also accommodating different household needs through flexible floor plans. Among its designs, the Karridale 215 offers a guest-suite variation, while the Ludlow 260 includes options for a guest suite or prayer room.
Are you interested in learning more about buying and building new? Check out our dedicated New Homes section.
This article was originally published on 29 Oct 2026 at 7:55am but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.
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