Bi-generational homes tailored to your lifestyle
A bi-generational home, also known as a multigenerational home or intergenerational residence, is an increasingly popular solution to meet the evolving needs of modern families.
These home concepts allow multiple generations to live together while preserving each person’s privacy and independence. At Harmonie Construction, we developed the Altera bi-generation series, which includes three unique models: Origine, Évolution, and Horizon. These bi-generational homes are designed to meet a wide range of needs and lifestyles, while offering options suited to each typology.
In this article, we present the 3 main typologies for a bi-generational home, their advantages, the customer profiles best suited to them, as well as the budget implications for each type. Our goal is to provide you with a clear, detailed overview to support you in bringing your intergenerational home project to life.
To begin, it is important to define what a typology is in the context of bi-generational housing: a home typology refers to the classification of the different possible configurations of a dwelling, based on criteria such as the layout of spaces, the number of floors, and the relationship between the different living areas. In other words, it is how a home is structured and designed to meet the specific needs of its occupants.
The 3 typologies of a bi-generational home
One above the other
This housing type is characterized by a main dwelling located above a secondary dwelling. It can take the form of a bungalow or a two-story house, with possible layouts in a full basement, semi-basement, or garden level. The advantages of this configuration lie primarily in its cost-effectiveness. By utilizing the basement space, construction costs are reduced, thus offering an affordable solution for many families. Furthermore, this proximity facilitates the development of common living areas, thereby strengthening family ties while sharing resources.
Possible layouts
Full basement, half-basement, garden-level.
See the Altera Origine model
Advantages:
- Cost-effective solution thanks to the use of the basement.
- Easy to create shared living areas.
- Reduced construction costs.
Disadvantages:
- Reduced sound privacy.
- Less natural light for the basement unit.
- Limited accessibility for people with reduced mobility.
Ideal configurations for:
- Young adults becoming homeowners with help from their parents.
- Siblings or friends pooling their resources.
However, this typology has a few drawbacks, notably in terms of sound privacy and natural light for the basement unit. Accessibility can also be an issue for people with reduced mobility, although solutions such as a garden-level layout can mitigate this drawback. This home configuration is ideal for young adults becoming homeowners with help from their parents, or for siblings or friends who wish to pool their resources.
Side by side
In this configuration, the two units are adjacent, allowing greater flexibility in design. You can choose bungalows, two-storey homes, or a combination of both, depending on your needs and preferences.
One of the main advantages of this concept is better sound attenuation thanks to the separation of the units by shared walls. In addition, each unit benefits from ample windows, providing optimal natural light and a greater sense of space. This bi-generational home also makes it possible to create more private outdoor living areas by using the ends of the building to design private gardens or terraces.
Possible layouts
Bungalow, two-storey, or a combination of both.
See the Altera Évolution model
Advantages:
- Good sound attenuation thanks to shared walls.
- Excellent windows and natural light.
- Flexibility to create private outdoor spaces.
Disadvantages:
- Slightly higher maintenance costs.
- Less flexibility in lot selection.
Ideal configurations for:
- Families looking to preserve privacy while living side by side.
- Siblings or friends who want to share a real estate project without sacrificing their independence.
The side-by-side typology is perfectly suited to families looking to preserve a certain level of privacy while living side by side. It is ideal for siblings or long-time friends who want to share a real estate project without sacrificing their independence.
The parental annex
In this case, the intergenerational residence consists of two complete homes side by side, offering maximum privacy and comfort for each generation. Although this configuration is the most expensive to build, it offers many advantages, particularly in terms of windows and accessibility.
For those looking for a highly customizable and comfortable solution, the Altera Horizon model from the Altera series is an excellent choice. With nearly unlimited customization possibilities, this typology makes it possible to design two fully separate living spaces while maximizing quality of life for each generation.
Possible layouts
Two complete homes side by side.
See the Altera Horizon model
Advantages:
- Maximum privacy and comfort.
- Optimal windows for all living spaces.
- Ideal accessibility for seniors.
Disadvantages:
- Slightly higher maintenance costs.
- Less flexibility in lot selection.
Ideal configurations for:
- Aging parents looking to stay close to their family.
- Forward-thinking parents or investors looking to provide housing for their children or generate additional income.
This bi-generational home is perfectly suited to families looking to preserve a certain level of privacy while living side by side. It is ideal for siblings or long-time friends who want to share a real estate project without sacrificing their independence.
Find out if bi-generational living fits your lifestyle.
Bi-generational homes adapt to a variety of profiles and needs—whether parents want to support their children, young adults are seeking independence, or families want to bring generations closer together while preserving autonomy. Are you wondering whether this concept could be right for you?
Explore the full article to discover the different typical profiles and see how a bi-generational home could meet your aspirations and those of your loved ones.
Read the articleBi-generational homes tailored to your lifestyle
Choosing your lot
Choosing the right lot will be very important to the success of your bi-generational home project.
Here are a few key points to consider:
Location
The lot’s location is essential. Proximity to services, schools, and amenities are important factors. A good location can also increase your property’s value over the long term.
Lot size
The lot size must be sufficient to accommodate the chosen home typology. Make sure you have enough space for outdoor features and shared living areas.
Topography
The topography of the land can influence the design of your home. Flat land is generally easier to build on, while sloping land may require additional earthworks.
Other specific features
Certain features, such as proximity to water, can add value to your property, but they can also impose additional regulatory constraints.
Technical studies
Before starting construction, it is essential to carry out technical studies such as soil studies, percolation tests for septic systems, and hydrological studies if necessary.
Permits and regulations
Make sure you obtain all required permits and comply with local construction regulations. This includes building permits, planning certificates, and environmental authorizations.
By choosing the right location for your bi-generational home, you not only ensure the success of your project, but you also maximize the comfort and satisfaction of every family member.
Budget implications
The price of a lot varies based on several criteria, including its geographic location, its size, and its typology. Purchasing the lot is typically the second-largest expense in a construction project, after the costs related to building the home itself.
Including design fees, permits, and the studies required before construction begins. Architectural plans, soil studies, and permit fees are a few examples of these costs. These initial expenses are essential to ensure compliance with building standards and to confirm that the project is feasible from a technical, regulatory, and environmental standpoint.
This category represents the largest share of the budget. It includes site preparation, construction of the structure, mechanical systems such as plumbing and electrical, interior finishes like flooring and paint, as well as exterior finishes such as roofing and façade cladding.
Even after the home construction work itself is complete, there are additional expenses to consider. These costs include land transfer taxes, landscaping, and the purchase of maintenance equipment such as gardening tools, cleaning equipment, and maintenance supplies to ensure proper upkeep of the home and its surroundings.
3 simple tips for effective budget management
- Plan a contingency buffer: Always include a contingency buffer in your budget to cover unexpected costs.
- Compare quotes: Obtain multiple quotes for each phase of the project to choose the providers offering the best value for money.
- Track your budget closely: Keep a rigorous record of expenses to avoid budget overruns.
By planning carefully and following these tips, you will be able to carry out your bi-generational home project under the best possible financial conditions.
The Altera bi-generational vision, driven by experience and passion.
Discover the vision that gave rise to Altera bi-generation. Guided by their personal experiences and a shared passion for bi-generational housing, Maxime Thérien, President, and Maurice Dagenais, Co-Founder of Harmonie Construction, share the journey that led them to develop unmatched expertise. Their mission: to support families in bringing their multigenerational projects to life.
Take advantage of the expertise and availability of our team of experts to evaluate your intergenerational project
A meeting with our team of housing advisors will allow you to benefit from personalized expertise. We will take the time to understand your specific needs and long-term goals to propose adapted solutions.
With the Altera bi-generational series, Harmonie Construction offers you much more than a residence. Our Altera Origine, Evolution, and Horizon models represent a modern and sustainable solution to meet the needs of evolving families and allow your needs to be transformed into a concrete vision, while guaranteeing an optimal quality of life for every family member.
Complete evaluation of your project
Our experts will perform a complete evaluation of your project, taking into account all aspects, whether financial, logistical, or emotional. We will help you weigh the pros and cons of each option to guide you toward the best decision.
Support throughout the process
At every stage of the process, from initial design to final completion, you will be supported by our team. We will be there to answer all your questions, manage unforeseen events, and ensure your project runs smoothly.
Access to quality resources and partners
By collaborating with us, you benefit from our network of trusted partners, including specialized architects, contractors, and financiers. This guarantees you access to the best resources to successfully complete your bi-generational home project.
Our team is here to help you realize your intergenerational project
Book an appointment today with a Harmonie Construction advisor to explore the options available to you and begin realizing your bi-generational project with confidence.
Read our other intergenerational home articles.
Begin a reflection to evaluate if this type of housing meets your family needs. Find clear answers on the benefits, ideal profiles, and adapted solutions.
Eric’s family dreamed of a bi-generational home. Despite the challenges, they worked closely with the Harmonie Construction team to design a unique space. The result? You will discover it in this case study article.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)
One of the main concerns for families considering a bi-generational home is managing shared and private spaces. It is important to find a balance between living together and privacy. Good planning and clear rules can help prevent conflicts.
The purchase and construction cost of a bi-generational home may seem high, but it is often offset by savings on expenses and shared costs. It is also possible to find financing solutions tailored to this type of project.
Finally, it is important to take legal and administrative implications into account. Ensure you obtain all necessary permits and comply with local construction regulations.
Planning and building a bi-generational home is a more complex process than a typical single-family project, but with the support of our team, you can be confident that your project will run smoothly and that your new home will meet your needs perfectly.
Once the legal and administrative aspects are in place, planning your bi-generational home project can begin. In collaboration with our team of architects and housing advisors, you will define the detailed plans, choose materials, and determine the layout of the spaces.
Harmonie Construction works with trusted partners to ensure optimal build quality. Our team will oversee every stage of the worksite to ensure the work meets timelines and quality standards.
At the end of the work, we will accompany you during the home inspection to verify that everything meets your expectations, and we will remain available for any questions or necessary adjustments after you move in.