Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) for multigenerational living is a fantastic way to keep families close while providing everyone with their own space. These homes can be customized to fit different needs, from young adults to aging parents. Plus, pooling resources as a family can make building an ADU more affordable than separate homes. It’s a smart way to invest in your family’s future and create long-term financial stability. We’ll explore the possibilities and share tips for creating a harmonious home for all generations.
Is an ADU the answer for your multigenerational family?
Building an ADU is a smart way to invest in your family’s future, create long-term financial stability, and design a home that adapts to your needs. But what does that journey actually look like?
For McDonald Construction customers Shelly, her husband Lucas, and his mother Robin, the conversation about the future began with a heartfelt desire to create a better way of living, together. Their story provides a powerful real-world look at how a thoughtful plan can lead to the perfect multigenerational home.
Starting with a heartfelt conversation.
For many families, the process begins with defining what they hope to achieve. Robin’s experience seeing her own mother in a small, dark basement solidified her family’s resolve to find a solution that allowed for “connection, independence, and comfort for everyone.”
“My son Lucas and I had a heartfelt conversation about what life might look like as I begin to age,” Robin explains. “Where would I live? What would I do with the 3,000 sq. ft. house I was in? And what would my role be as a grandma who wants to be part of my granddaughter’s everyday life? That experience stayed with me and Lucas. It made us think deeply about creating a home that could work not just for me, but for his family too.”
Once you have your “why,” the next step is figuring out the “how.” Robin, Lucas, and Shelly’s initial concept of a separate backyard cottage hit a common roadblock: zoning restrictions. This is where flexibility and expert guidance become key.
“That’s when Shelly started researching other options and came up with the idea of building one larger home for their family that also included a fully separate living space just for me,” Robin says. “It would be connected, approved by the city, and still allow me to live independently while being close to the people I love. Most importantly, it would give me the ability to age in place with comfort and ease.”
Design principles for a harmonious home.
The family’s solution—an integrated ADU within a larger home—embodies the core principles of successful multigenerational design.
Balance Privacy and Connection: The most crucial element is creating a balance between shared spaces and private retreats. As Shelly notes, their design intentionally gives everyone their own space. “That’s precisely why we designed a closed-off ADU,“ she says. “We both value having our own space and independence, but we’re still close enough to be there for each other whenever it matters most.“
Plan for Future Needs: Great design anticipates the future. By incorporating features like wider doorways, zero-entry showers, and an abundance of natural light, a home can comfortably accommodate family members at every stage of life.
Create Shared Spaces that Unite: While private space is essential, the heart of a multigenerational home is where everyone comes together. A large kitchen, a cozy living room for movie nights, or a shared patio for barbecues are the places where lasting memories are made.
Peace of mind and stronger bonds.
Beyond the practical advantages, the emotional richness of multigenerational living is the true payoff. For the ‘sandwich generation’—those caring for both aging parents and children—an ADU can be a game-changer, reducing stress and providing daily peace of mind.
“Having Grandma close means all her needs are taken care of, which brings so much peace of mind. We no longer have to worry about how she’ll mow the lawn or shovel the driveway — it just makes everything easier and more comforting, knowing she’s safe, supported, and surrounded by family.“
Shelly (Daughter-in-Law)
Ultimately, this arrangement allows for the kind of deep, daily connection that is priceless. “The main reason we decided to merge our household now — with our daughter, Hannah, and Grandma under one roof — was to nurture that everyday connection between them,” says Shelly. “It gives them the chance to build a truly special relationship.”
Building an ADU is more than adding space; it’s about creating a home where every member of the family can thrive. With thoughtful planning, your home can be a place where cherished memories are made for generations to come.
See how it all came together.
To tour the stunning result of this family’s journey, visit our Dream Home model #301 in the Twin Cities Parade of Homes, featuring a stunning home with an integrated ADU designed for multigenerational living.
READ MORE ABOUT ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS