At Long View Custom Homes, we've seen increasing interest in multi-generational living spaces throughout the Lake Norman region and surrounding counties. As a custom home builder committed to creating homes that serve families for generations, we understand the importance of designing spaces that adapt to changing family dynamics and needs.
Understanding the Next Gen Home Concept
A Next Gen home (short for "next generation") is specifically designed to accommodate multiple generations living together while providing appropriate separation and independence. Unlike traditional homes that might be adapted for multi-generational living, Next Gen homes are purposefully designed from the ground up with this arrangement in mind.
The core concept revolves around creating a "home within a home"—a separate living space within the main house that includes its own entrance, living area, kitchen, bedroom(s), and bathroom(s). This arrangement allows family members to maintain privacy and independence while still benefiting from proximity to loved ones.
Key Features of Next Gen Homes
Next Gen homes typically include several distinctive elements that differentiate them from traditional single-family residences:
- Separate entrances allowing independent access to the secondary living space
- Complete living quarters with kitchenette or full kitchen, bedroom(s), bathroom, and living areas
- Shared common spaces that encourage family interaction when desired
- Thoughtful sound insulation between the main home and the Next Gen suite
- Universal design elements that accommodate aging in place
- Flexible spaces that can adapt to changing family needs over time
- Integrated yet independent systems for heating, cooling, and sometimes utilities
These features create living arrangements that respect the independence of each generation while fostering family connections and mutual support.
The Rising Popularity of Multi-Generational Living
The trend toward multi-generational households has been steadily increasing for several reasons:
Economic Factors
- Rising housing costs making independent living less affordable
- Shared expenses reducing the financial burden on individual family members
- Pooled resources allowing for a higher overall standard of living
- Reduced childcare costs when grandparents live in the home
- Shared property maintenance distributing both costs and responsibilities
Social and Familial Benefits
- Enhanced family bonds through daily interaction across generations
- Built-in support system for childcare, elderly care, and daily assistance
- Reduced isolation for older family members
- Cultural continuity and transmission of traditions across generations
- Mutual enrichment through shared experiences and perspectives
Practical Considerations
- Aging parents who need some assistance but not full-time care
- Adult children returning home while establishing careers or saving for their own homes
- Family members with special needs requiring support while maintaining independence
- Caregiving arrangements that avoid institutional care while preventing caregiver burnout
- Long-term planning for aging in place with family support
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trend, highlighting the benefits of keeping family members close while maintaining appropriate separation when needed. Many families discovered that having multiple generations under one roof provided emotional support, practical assistance, and financial benefits during challenging times.
Design Approaches for Next Gen Homes
When creating a Next Gen custom home, several design approaches can be considered based on the specific needs and dynamics of your family:
1. The Suite Approach
This design incorporates a complete apartment-style suite within the main house footprint. Typically, this includes:
- Bedroom(s)
- Full bathroom
- Living area
- Kitchenette or full kitchen
- Separate entrance
- Often located on the main level for accessibility
The suite approach works well for accommodating aging parents or a single adult child, providing significant independence while maintaining close proximity.
2. The Wing Design
In this approach, a dedicated wing of the home is designed for the secondary living space, often with a connecting door or hallway that can be closed off when desired. Wing designs typically feature:
- Multiple bedrooms and bathrooms
- Dedicated living spaces
- Full or partial kitchen
- Separate entrance and garage access
- Often situated at opposite ends of the home from the primary living areas
Wing designs provide more separation and are ideal for larger family units or when more privacy is desired between the living spaces.
3. The Dual Master Setup
This configuration features two owner's suites of similar size and amenities, often on different levels of the home:
- Two primary bedroom suites with luxury bathrooms
- Shared kitchen and living spaces
- Potentially separate sitting areas or offices
- Equal emphasis on comfort and amenities in both suites
This approach works well for siblings sharing a home or for situations where the division between generations is less defined.
4. The Convertible Space Design
This forward-thinking approach creates spaces that can easily transform as family needs change:
- Flexible rooms with multiple possible functions
- Pre-wiring and plumbing for future kitchen or bathroom installations
- Easily installed or removed wall systems
- Separate entrances that can be activated when needed
- Independent HVAC zoning and controls
The convertible approach is ideal for families who anticipate changing needs over time, allowing the home to adapt without major renovations.
Key Considerations When Planning a Next Gen Home
If you're considering a Next Gen custom home in the Lake Norman area, several important factors should guide your planning process:
Privacy and Independence
Finding the right balance between togetherness and privacy is essential for harmonious multi-generational living. Consider:
- Sound insulation between living areas to prevent noise transfer
- Thoughtful placement of bedrooms away from high-traffic areas
- Separate outdoor spaces that allow for private relaxation
- Clear boundaries for shared versus private spaces
- Technology infrastructure that supports independent entertainment and communication needs
Accessibility and Universal Design
Incorporating universal design principles ensures the home will remain functional for all family members regardless of age or ability:
- Zero-entry access points without steps or level changes
- Wider doorways and hallways (minimum 36" width)
- Curbless showers with seating options
- Variable height countertops or adjustable solutions
- Lever-style door handles instead of knobs
- Adequate lighting throughout all spaces
- Blocking in walls for future grab bar installation
These features benefit all generations and allow aging in place without requiring future modifications.
Shared vs. Dedicated Systems
Deciding which home systems to share and which to separate affects both initial costs and ongoing expenses:
- HVAC systems: Separate zones or systems provide temperature control autonomy
- Electrical panels: Separate service or subpanels allow for independent management
- Water heaters: Dedicated units ensure adequate hot water for all areas
- Internet and entertainment: Separate networks may provide more privacy
- Laundry facilities: Shared or dedicated based on anticipated usage patterns
These decisions impact both construction costs and long-term utility expenses, requiring thoughtful planning during the design phase.
Future Adaptability
A well-designed Next Gen home should be able to adapt to changing family circumstances:
- Potential for rental conversion if family members move out
- Ability to reintegrate spaces into the main home if needed
- Consideration for resale appeal to other multi-generational families
- Flexible spaces that can serve multiple functions over time
- Infrastructure for aging in place as needs change
Working with a custom builder like Long View Custom Homes allows for thoughtful planning around these future scenarios, ensuring your investment serves your family well for years to come.
Interested in learning more about the timeline of building a custom home? Check out our blog post on the month-by-month timeline here.
Financing Considerations for Next Gen Homes
Multi-generational homes often require special consideration during the financing process:
Mortgage Options
Traditional mortgages can be used for Next Gen homes, but several specialized options may be worth exploring:
- FHA loans with the Family Opportunity Mortgage program for homes that include space for parents, children, or grandchildren
- VA loans for eligible veterans with multi-generational households
- Construction-to-permanent loans that convert to a mortgage after the custom building process
- Home equity conversion mortgages (HECMs) for seniors combining households with family members
Cost Considerations
When budgeting for a Next Gen custom home, several factors may impact the overall investment:
- Increased square footage to accommodate additional living spaces
- Duplicate systems like kitchens, laundry, and HVAC zones
- Additional entries and circulation spaces that add to the overall footprint
- Specialized accessibility features if needed for aging family members
- Higher-grade sound insulation between living areas
While these factors may increase the initial construction cost compared to a traditional single-family home, they often represent significant savings compared to maintaining two separate residences.
Shared Financial Arrangements
Many families create formal agreements regarding the financial aspects of shared living:
- Contribution structures for mortgage payments and utilities
- Expense-sharing plans for maintenance and repairs
- Property ownership arrangements that protect all parties' investments
- Estate planning considerations for long-term property transfer
- Tax implications of various ownership and contribution structures
Consulting with financial advisors and legal professionals during the planning phase can help establish clear expectations and protections for all family members.
Energy efficiency is an important consideration for Next Gen homes. Read our blog on how to save money with energy efficient design here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Next Gen Homes
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How does a Next Gen home differ from simply having an in-law suite?
While traditional in-law suites typically offer a bedroom and bathroom, sometimes with a small sitting area, true Next Gen homes provide complete living quarters with separate entrances, kitchens, living spaces, and sometimes laundry facilities. They offer significantly more independence while maintaining the benefits of shared living.
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Will a Next Gen design affect my home's resale value?
In most markets, including the Lake Norman region, Next Gen homes often command premium resale values due to their versatility and the growing demand for multi-generational living solutions. However, the design must be thoughtfully executed to appeal to future buyers who may use the space differently.
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Can a Next Gen home be built on any lot?
Not all lots are suitable for Next Gen designs, which often require larger footprints or specific configurations. Factors like lot size, setback requirements, septic system capacity (if applicable), and local zoning regulations all impact feasibility. At Long View Custom Homes, we can help evaluate your property's suitability for a multi-generational design.
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How do building codes and zoning affect Next Gen homes?
Local regulations vary significantly regarding secondary living spaces. Some municipalities have restrictions on full second kitchens or separate entrances in single-family zones. Working with an experienced custom builder familiar with local requirements is essential for navigating these regulations successfully.
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Can we convert our existing home to a Next Gen design?
While some homes can be adapted for multi-generational living, comprehensive renovations often approach the cost of new construction while resulting in more compromises. Custom building allows for purposeful design without the limitations of existing structures.
Conclusion: Is a Next Gen Home Right for Your Family?
The decision to build a Next Gen custom home requires careful consideration of your family's current needs, future plans, financial situation, and interpersonal dynamics. When thoughtfully designed and executed, these homes can provide beautiful solutions that enhance family relationships while respecting individual independence.
If you're considering a Next Gen custom home in the Lake Norman region, including Iredell, Catawba, Rowan, Davie, Cabarrus, or Mecklenburg Counties, we invite you to contact Long View Custom Homes to discuss how we can help bring your multi-generational vision to life.