Multigenerational Texas Homes: Design-Build Ideas for Extended Family Households
A growing trend in the United States is multigenerational living.
Many cultures around the world practice this already, and more families in the US are choosing to live with extended family. In fact, around 18% of the population is living in this kind of arrangement, which is a reflection of the real estate market, economic realities in 2025, and societal evolutions.
Are you curious about establishing a multigenerational household? When making this shift, many families consider building a new custom home vs. buying, because it allows you to plan out comfortable living arrangements for your extended family.
Jim Bland Construction is a premier custom home builder in Waco, Texas, and we’re proud to be on top of the latest trends in our industry. Our custom home builders are ready to help multigenerational families support each other while giving each other privacy and a sense of their own space.
Let’s take a closer look at some design-build ideas for including multiple generations of your family into one household!
Flexible Spaces
Your multigenerational home should have flexible spaces to accommodate different needs on different days. Homes that are designed with adaptable areas can serve multiple functions. It can help promote privacy or communal interaction as needed.
To achieve flexible spaces, you can choose an open floor plan and moveable partitions. These allow you to rearrange walls to create other spaces, such as a larger dining room or a small office for people who work from home.
Inclusive Bathrooms
If you are living with elderly family members, then you can include inclusive features in bathrooms, such as walk-in showers, grab bars, and adjustable-height fixtures. This can ensure safety and comfort for all ages.
When designing your bathrooms, you may want to consider keeping the shower and toilet behind a separate door from the vanity. This allows family members to use the sinks while someone else is in the bathroom.
Multiple Gathering Areas
To ensure everyone has enough space, you can include multiple gathering areas, such as living rooms, studies, or dining areas. That way, family members can have room to gather or spend time doing their individual activities.
Dual Master Suites
Homes with a master suite have private bathrooms, which allows the family members more privacy. Including multiple master suites instead of one can help ensure everyone has their own space and bathroom, without having to worry about sharing time in communal bathrooms.
If you are living with a set of parents, having them in a master suite as well can make them more comfortable.
Smart Home Technologies
There are plenty of smart home technologies you can incorporate into your custom home.
Some examples of helpful smart home devices include:
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Smart thermostats for climate control
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Smart lighting to conserve energy
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Smart security systems, locks, and doorbells for safety and protection
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Smart speakers and entertainment systems
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Smart plugs and outlets
Universal Design Principles
There are several universal design principles that are incorporated into newly built homes. These make spaces more flexible, efficient, and comfortable. In addition, they can help ensure accessibility for those with limited mobility.
The seven principles of universal design are:
Outdoor Living Spaces
A great way to expand your living space is incorporating outdoor spaces, such as a patio, deck, gazebo, etc.
Accessible outdoor spaces encourage family interaction and relaxation in nature. They can help enhance your overall living experience and provide a place for family members to go when they need to get out of the house.
Considerations for Future Needs
If you are living with extended family or plan to, you should consider what features you may need in the future. An example would be if you intend to expand your family by having children, or inviting other family members to live with you.
In addition, considering fixtures and features for elderly adults during the building process can make it easier for them to age in place without needing to do major renovations.
Other spaces to consider including are:
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Offices
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Guest rooms
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Playrooms
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Entertainment rooms
With enough forethought, you can customize a new home to fit you and your family’s needs, making your home a place where you can easily live for many years.
Build a Multigenerational Home in Texas With Jim Bland Construction
Jim Bland Construction has been building custom homes in Waco, Texas, for over 50 years. You can trust us to do whatever it takes to build the best home for your family while including your aspirations, lifestyle, and vision.
If you’re looking to build a custom home in Central Texas, choose Jim Bland Construction!
Give us a call at 254-772-6508 or request more information online.