Multi-generational living is on the rise across Melbourne. More families, from adult children through to elderly parents and grandparents, are choosing to live together under one roof while still maintaining independence.
So, how does this work in practice?
Well, rather than relying on traditional single-home layouts, many families are turning to granny flats to make multi-generational living work.
These self-contained dwellings allow parents, adult children, and grandparents to stay connected while still enjoying their own private space.
It’s the best of both worlds!
And, as suburban living continues to evolve, granny flats play a key role in helping modern families adapt, supporting both changing lifestyles and long-term needs.
Multi-generational living refers to two or more adult generations of a family sharing the same property. For instance, parents, adult children, and grandparents often opt to cohabitate for support and cost savings.
Over the years, it has become a rising trend in Australia, with statistics indicating that about 20% of households now follow this model.
These arrangements typically feature shared common areas like kitchens alongside private areas such as offices or bedrooms for increased independence. In practice, this can mean a main house plus a compliant secondary dwelling of up to 60 square metres on the same lot as an existing house.
In essence, granny flats enable multi-generational living by providing a detached, self-contained work or living area that balances togetherness and autonomy.
Granny flats are an ideal solution for multi-generational living. It offers a self-contained space on the same property as the primary residence, offering the perfect balance between familial connection and personal independence.
Granny flats provide a self-contained living environment where family members can enjoy their own entrance, kitchenette, and bathroom. This separation helps reduce pressure on shared spaces in the main home, minimising day-to-day conflicts.
Moreover, it allows elderly relatives to maintain their independence while remaining close to family support, and gives younger adults a private retreat without the need to move off the property.
Accommodating multiple generations on a single property can significantly reduce overall living expenses. By sharing one title, families can avoid the costs associated with separate mortgages or rental arrangements.
This is especially important in Melbourne’s high-priced property market.
A granny flat offers long-term versatility, adapting as your family’s needs change over time.
What starts as accommodation for extended family can later be repurposed as a home office, guest space, or even a potential rental opportunity (subject to approvals).
From cosy one-bedroom designs to more spacious two-bedroom options, Todd Devine Homes offers a range of granny flats to suit different needs and sites, including but not limited to:
View our 12-step building process to understand how we take your granny flat from concept to completion.
At Todd Devine Homes, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. If you’ve got a block with awkward dimensions, a particular vision, or you need to comply with specific accessibility or planning rules, we can work with that.
Our in-house design team collaborates directly with you (and your site requirements) to come up with something that ticks every box. Whether it’s special materials or custom features, we can tailor your granny flat without blowing the budget.
Increasingly, we’re also seeing strong demand from families embracing multi-generational living across Melbourne’s suburbs. Here, granny flats provide an ideal solution for keeping family close by while maintaining independence and privacy.
Keep in mind that all of our designs are developed in line with the National Construction Code (NCC) and can be configured as either relocatable or permanent structures, subject to relevant council approvals.
At Todd Devine Homes, we’ve been building granny flats across Victoria for over 30 years, so we know our way around state and local council regulations. We handle it all: permits, designs, site preparation, and construction.
Whether you’re planning for ageing parents, adult children, or a flexible shared living arrangement, we can help you design a space that balances independence and connection.
Want to explore what’s possible for your property?
Contact us today to discuss your multi-generational living options.
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