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Embracing multi-generational living with savvy design
Multi-generational homes are quite buzzy these days. And for good reason: with sky-high interest rates and the boomer generation slowing down, many families are deciding to live together… again!
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In fact, according to Statistics Canada’s 2021 Census, there are roughly 442,000 multi-generational homes in Canada, with Toronto having the highest percentage.
For GTA designer Aman Than of Aman Than Interiors, embracing this lifestyle meant undertaking a full-scale renovation to create the co-living space of her (and her family’s) dreams.
As you can imagine, designing for a multi-generational family is no easy endeavour. It means crafting a home that’s versatile for everyone, from young children to grandparents.
“Our home needed to be flexible and adaptable to accommodate varying needs over time,” says Than. “I had to consider factors such as accessibility, safety, privacy, and communal areas.”
The home features shared spaces such as a well-equipped kitchen for cooking and hosting and a comfortable family room with ample seating for everyone plus guests. Private spaces include bedrooms and separate bathrooms, with various relaxing areas for personal time.
Designing her own home posed a unique challenge for Than: “Balancing my personal style with my family’s needs and staying within our budget was a hurdle I had to overcome, I had to put my emotions aside and concentrate on the big picture.”
The focus was on modernizing the space while preserving the home’s original “fantastic bones.” “Designing the home was like creating a collage of memories and inspirations gathered over the years, influenced by travel adventures, design expos, and diverse cultural backgrounds,” explains Than.
Than opted for a neutral palette accented with pops of colour while consistent materials were used throughout the home to achieve a seamless look.
She used key elements to tie her vision together such as wide plank natural oak flooring, white oak in a natural matte finish for family room built-ins and kitchen cabinets, and rift-cut white oak for the principal bathroom vanity.
“Fabrics with the same texture but in different colours were chosen for the family room, bedroom, breakfast area, and dining space,” explains Than. And wallpaper, a personal favourite of Than’s, was incorporated throughout the home.
One key renovation element was replacing the family room fireplace with a stunning 48-inch-wide linear piece set in black, copper-veined porcelain tile. This and custom built-ins match the kitchen cabinets, modernizing and unifying the space.
“Neutral tones ensured a timeless and versatile look while mixing different furniture styles updated the home, merging its original charm with contemporary elements,” says Than.
For the heart of the home, the kitchen, Than seamlessly blended functionality and aesthetics. Custom details such as spice drawers, a tea/coffee garage, dedicated storage for cutting boards and serving trays, magic corners, and a charging drawer in the island make it truly bespoke. The design was completed with a slim wine rack display, adding a unique touch to the space.
Than’s favourite spaces include the formal dining room, adorned with custom murals in soft neutrals and a black ceiling, which creates a cosy, inviting atmosphere for gatherings.
Another highlight is the principal bathroom, which is organized, spacious, and beautifully designed for everyday use. “The principal bathroom is like a personal and private spa for me. I am really pleased how it turned out,” says Than.
After 16-weeks of renovation, Than’s design prowess paid off, leaving everyone excited to be living together under one roof. “My in-laws love the open-concept layout and the spacious new kitchen, perfect for cooking traditional Burmese dishes,” shares Than.
“And the second-floor library is their personal haven, with a large window that creates a cosy reading and writing nook, providing a welcoming yet connected space,” Than adds.
Embracing multi-generational living, Than crafted a home that flawlessly merges functionality, style, and personal flair. The result? A cohesive, sophisticated design that caters to her family’s diverse needs and celebrates each generation.
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