Privacy Meets Togetherness: Renovating for Multi-Generational Harmony

With Kate Hamblet

Living under one roof with multiple generations can be deeply rewarding, but it comes with unique design challenges. Whether it’s adult children moving home, aging parents joining the household, or extended family choosing to live together, the challenge is the same: how do you create a home that fosters connection while preserving privacy?

If you’re renovating, you have the perfect opportunity to plan for both.

Think in “Zones”

Separate the home into distinct areas for shared activities and private retreat. This allows family members to connect when they want to and recharge when they need to.

• Group bedrooms and bathrooms by household unit to minimize hallway traffic.

• Create a private suite with a bedroom, bathroom, and possibly a kitchenette. Over a garage, in a basement walk-out, or as an addition with a separate entrance are all good locations. Backyard accessory dwelling units are also a great opportunity for private suites.

• Use subtle dividers like short hallways, alcoves, or staircases to create natural separation without closing off spaces completely.

  
  

Plan the Flow

The way rooms connect can either encourage harmony or create friction. In a renovation, you can adjust the layout for a smoother daily life.

• Ensure easy access to shared spaces like kitchens and living rooms without passing through someone else’s private area.

• Design flexible rooms that can shift from playroom to office to guest bedroom as needs change.

• Include outdoor zones such as porches, patios, or small decks that can serve as quiet retreats or lively gathering spots, depending on the day.

Don’t Forget Sound Control

Privacy isn’t just about walls; it’s about quiet. Addressing noise during a renovation is far easier than after the fact.

• Add insulation to interior walls between bedrooms and bathrooms. Natural insulation like wood fiber (TimberHP), sheep's wool (Havelock), and hempwool (Hempitecture) are all great soundproofing insulation options.

• Choose solid-core doors for better sound separation.

• Use noise-absorbing flooring like cork or wool carpet upstairs, and add area rugs in shared rooms.

• Seal gaps around doors and windows with acoustic caulk or weatherstripping for a noticeable noise reduction.

Keep it Healthy

When more people share a space, indoor air quality matters even more. A healthy renovation will keep everyone feeling their best.

• Install balanced ventilation (like an ERV) to keep air fresh without wasting energy.

• Select zero-VOC paints and finishes, especially in bedrooms and enclosed spaces.

• Choose durable, easy-to-clean surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms to handle higher traffic without constant upkeep.

  
  

  

With smart planning, a renovation can create a home that balances privacy with togetherness so shared living feels like a choice, not a compromise. Build it right, and you’ll have a space where everyone can feel at home.

By, Kate Hamblet

The Wellness Architect Balanced Architecture

Kate helps health-conscious families create homes that support and promote health, happiness and longevity. You'll find her at www.balancedarchitecture.com