As families grow and life changes, so do the ways we live. In Louisville and across the country, more and more adult children are choosing to add onto or remodel their homes so their aging parents can live with them. Whether driven by practicality, safety, or the desire to keep loved ones close, multi-generational living is becoming one of the fastest-growing trends in residential design—and it’s shaping the future of home remodeling.
At P.L. Lyons Architectural Builders, we’ve seen this firsthand. Many of our recent remodel and addition projects are designed specifically for families who want to help their parents age in place with comfort, dignity, and independence.
Why Families Are Choosing Multi-Generational Living
1. Staying Close While Maintaining Independence
For many families, the idea of moving parents into an assisted living facility doesn’t feel like the right fit. Creating a dedicated living space—whether it’s an in-law suite, a private apartment, or an addition with its own entrance—allows aging parents to remain close to family while still living independently.
2. Safety and Peace of Mind
As parents get older, everyday tasks can become more challenging. Living under the same roof provides peace of mind for adult children, knowing help is just a few steps away. Thoughtful remodels can incorporate features that support aging in place, such as wider doorways, step-free showers, accessible layouts, and improved lighting.
3. Cost-Effective Compared to Senior Care
Long-term care options can be expensive. Adding onto your home or reconfiguring unused spaces can be a more affordable—and more personal—solution that benefits the entire family.
4. Strengthening Family Bonds
For many of our clients, this choice is about connection. Sharing daily moments, family meals, celebrations, and even quiet evenings together creates memories that wouldn’t be possible living separately.
How a Remodel or Addition Supports Aging in Place
Every family is different, and the best solutions are custom-designed to fit your unique needs. Here are some of the most common features we incorporate into multi-generational projects:
- Main-level bedroom suites to eliminate stairs
- Private bathrooms with walk-in or zero-entry showers
- Kitchenettes or small private living areas
- Soundproofing for comfort on both sides
- Separate entrances for privacy and autonomy
- Wider hallways and doorways to support accessibility
- Energy-efficient updates to create a comfortable, long-lasting space
These thoughtful design choices allow aging parents to maintain independence while ensuring the home remains functional and beautiful for everyone.
A Real Example: A Louisville Family Preparing for the Future
We’re currently working on a remodel and addition for a family who wants to welcome their parents into their home. Rather than searching for a new house or navigating the complexities of senior care facilities, they chose to invest in the home they love—creating a warm, accessible space for their parents to enjoy for years to come.
Their project reflects a growing trend: families wanting to stay together in a way that supports both independence and connection.
Why Choose P.L. Lyons for Multi-Generational Remodels?
With decades of experience designing and building custom homes, remodels, and additions, our team understands the unique considerations of multi-generational living. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, we work closely with your family to design a space that fits your goals, lifestyle, and future needs.
Whether you’re planning for aging parents, making room for extended family, or simply preparing your home for the next chapter, we’re here to help you bring that vision to life.
Ready to Explore Multi-Generational Living?
If you’re considering adding onto your home or remodeling for your parents to age in place, let’s talk. We’d love to walk you through the possibilities and help your family stay close—comfortably and beautifully. Contact P.L. Lyons today to start planning your remodel or addition.
