At a time when the housing crisis is being felt increasingly, many Quebecers are rethinking the way they live. Home ownership has become more difficult for younger generations because of constantly rising real estate prices and the ever-increasing cost of living.

At the same time, the aging population faces its own challenges. Many seniors are not ready to leave their homes and move into a residence, and when they are, high costs and limited availability can be major barriers. Yet living differently could offer them a better quality of life and a healthier financial balance.

A solution growing in popularity

In this context, one trend is clearly emerging: intergenerational co-living.

A multigenerational home is a residence that includes two separate living spaces under one roof:

• A primary dwelling
• A secondary unit

These two units share:

• A single address
• A single tax bill

But they also retain essential autonomy, thanks to:

• Separate entrances
• Distinct living areas

The size of the secondary unit will vary depending on needs. This setup makes it possible to live together without encroaching on anyone’s privacy.

One of the biggest advantages of a multigenerational home is, of course, financial. This lifestyle helps reduce housing costs as well as several everyday expenses: internet, cable, snow removal, streaming services (such as Netflix), and more.

In fact, multigenerational households are among the fastest-growing household types in Canada, according to the Vanier Institute of the Family; a clear sign that this trend is here to stay.

A solution adapted to many family realities

Contrary to what some might think, a multigenerational home is not just for “traditional” families. It can adapt to a wide range of situations:

• A person living alone who shares daily life with an aging loved one
• A young family seeking to balance work, children, and quality of life
• A single-parent family needing day-to-day support

In a pace of life that is often hectic, this closeness makes all the difference. Grandparents can be more involved with the children and watch them grow, parents benefit from valuable help, and children build strong bonds with Grandma and Grandpa.

Not to mention the reassurance of being able to look after loved ones as they grow older.

What about windows and doors?

Like any home, a multigenerational house will require suitable windows and doors.

However, in this type of project, special attention must be paid to privacy and acoustic comfort.

A few options to consider:

• Soundproof glass, like our Tranquility option ideal for limiting noise transmission between the two living spaces
• Frosted glass, perfect for preserving privacy, especially in bathrooms or rooms exposed to view

These choices help balance closeness with respect for privacy.

Pay attention to municipal regulations

Before starting such a project, it is essential to check your municipality’s regulations.

Each city has its own requirements, which may relate to:

• The number and location of entry doors
• The exterior appearance (e.g., avoiding two visible front doors)
• The configuration of the accessory dwelling unit

Some municipalities require, for example, a shared main entrance at the front, and a second, more discreet one on the side.

Another important point is the future use of the unit. If the seniors leave the space, can it be rented out? Not necessarily. It is therefore crucial to confirm zoning and the rules in effect from the outset.

Conclusion

A multigenerational home addresses several modern challenges: housing, aging, cost of living… but it also meets a more fundamental need: the need to live together.

One thing is certain: this way of living has never been more relevant.

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