About Generations by Design

GET TO KNOW GENERATIONS BY DESIGN

Generations by Design is a UK-based resource for individuals and families exploring multigenerational living.

A property can look right on paper and still be difficult to live in.

That is why Generations by Design looks beyond bedrooms, floor plans and finances. It brings together the practical and human questions that can determine whether sharing a home feels supportive, fair and sustainable.

The work is organised around four connected areas: the home, the relationships, daily life and the future. Together, they help families consider not only where they might live, but how they want to live together.

Why multigenerational living?

Multigenerational living is not new, but it is becoming a more visible part of family life in the UK.

The latest detailed census analysis found that 2.1% of households in England and Wales were multigenerational in 2021, compared with 1.8% in 2011.

Alongside this, more young adults are remaining in or returning to the family home. In 2025, 28.7% of UK adults aged 20 to 34 lived with their parents, up from 25.4% in 2015. Increased housing costs are among the factors contributing to this change.

The population is ageing too. The number of people of pensionable age is projected to rise from 12.4 million in 2024 to 14.2 million by 2034.

Families may consider living together for many reasons: housing affordability, childcare, companionship, shared resources, support for older relatives or the hope of creating a more connected way of life.

An increase in multigenerational living does not mean it is the right choice for everyone. It does mean more families need balanced information and an opportunity to think carefully about how living together could work in practice.

Supporting sources: ONS Census 2021, ONS Families and Households 2025, and ONS population projections.

OUR MISSION

A future in which families considering multigenerational living can find balanced, trustworthy UK guidance in one place.

We want families to feel better prepared for the practical arrangements, more confident discussing difficult subjects and more able to create homes in which everyone has a voice.

OUR VISION

To help families explore multigenerational living through better questions, honest conversations and thoughtful planning.

Generations by Design provides practical information, reflective tools and coaching to help people understand their options, include different perspectives and make more informed decisions.