Modern MultiGenerational Homes | Northern Beaches Architects

Playout Churcher - Considerations in high end homes

Early considerations

“No matter whether our clients mention the option of multigenerational living or not, it’s always a consideration we discuss in our early conversations,” explains Brett Churcher, Playoust Churcher Managing Director.

“Sometimes our clients will raise it with us as they have elderly parents who they want to provide for… or in some cases, our clients are a young family who will use the other part of their home as a source of income with the knowledge that in the future their children may be able to utilise the space.”

It pays to think about the future uses of your home early in the design conversations for the best possible result. It might not be on your radar now… but if you are building or renovating your dream home, it’s likely you plan to be there for a long time. Those early conversations could save you a lot of pain – and money – down the track.

Privacy concerns

While we can’t help with personal boundaries when your mother-in-law moves in… we can help with creating clear and defined physical boundaries that provide privacy for everyone living in your home.

And privacy really is a crucial success factor for multigenerational home designs.

“If you don’t have privacy then no one in the home will feel comfortable,” says John Hooghuis, Playoust Churcher Design Director.

“Where possible, we design separate entries so it can truly feel like a second residence in the home. We also include private outdoor spaces which don’t overlook each other.

Playoust Churcher - Multi-generational-living-solution

That’s one of the problems with the classic granny flat in the backyard… whenever you step out of your back door you are both staring into each other’s space… or whatever space is left after the granny flat goes in.”

Wherever we do incorporate a granny flat as a multigenerational living solution, we always position it in a way that avoids those common privacy concerns.

Like with the Pymble renovation: the owners wanted visual privacy but it wasn’t as important to them to have access to separate outdoor spaces.

We positioned the in-law accommodation near the pool, facing away from the back part of the house to give the privacy the family needed.

Possibilities and solutions

There is no one size fits all approach to multigenerational home design… rather it’s about working with the site and building a solution that enhances the design and flow of the home.

For example, on a corner site, separate entries are very easily achieved.

It’s a matter of looking at the site, working through the wish list and coming up with an innovative solution that gives the best result.

“When we raise a multigenerational home design with some of our clients, they initially dismiss it as it isn’t on their radar. But when we explain the benefits and options, they get quite excited,” reveals John.

“They may be able to use the second residence as another income source to help pay the mortgage… or we will often end up creating a master plan so they have the option of a multigenerational home in the future when they need it.”

With the right architect, you can design a high-end home that incorporates multigenerational living. The Mosman home we designed was a large and grand residence with a separate residence for the grandparents on the ground floor.

We added a lift to make movement through the home much simpler for the elderly residents and achieved a very high-end finish on every element of the home.

Multigenerational home design experts

As experienced North Shore and Northern Beaches architects, we have been designing multigenerational homes for our clients for many years. We take a sensitive approach that pairs what you want and need from your home with our good design philosophy. The result is a multigenerational home that truly feels like home for everyone who lives there.

Contact us to discuss your multigenerational living requirements with one of our passionate and talented architects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is multi‑generational living and why is it becoming popular in Sydney?

Multi-generational living refers to designing homes that accommodate multiple family generations—such as grandparents, parents, and children—within a single residence or adjoining dwellings to maximize functionality, privacy, and cost-efficiency.

How does architecture support multi-generational households?

Smart design strategies include separate wings or units within a home, flexible zoning (living, sleeping, working spaces), accessible features for older residents, and shared communal areas that maintain privacy and flexibility.

Can dual occupancy designs support multigenerational households?

Yes. Dual occupancy or duplex-style layouts provide ideal multi-generational living solutions: one unit can serve as a senior-friendly space while the other supports family gatherings, work-from-home, or independent living.

How does Stormer Churcher approach multi-generational design?

Our architectural approach ensures thoughtful separation of living zones, alignment with council controls, and design that promotes connectedness and resilience—integrating accessibility and quality design tailored to family dynamics.

Are these designs suitable for North Shore suburbs?

Absolutely. We design multigenerational projects in areas like Ku‑ring‑gai, Willoughby, and Northern Beaches. Whether in heritage precincts or new developments under SEPP or R2 zones, we value flexibility and local context.

How can I plan a home that accommodates multiple generations?

Start with a feasibility consultation to assess your site, zoning, and goals. We’ll develop design options—either within a single home or dual occupancy layout—and guide you through DA approvals and construction coordination.

Key Takeaways

Design Flexibility Meets Lifestyle Intelligence

Rather than defaulting to standalone granny flats, Playoust Churcher integrates flexible, future-ready solutions—such as dedicated zones within the home—that respect both aesthetic integrity and evolving family dynamics

Architectural Stewardship at Scale

Deep expertise across heritage, contemporary residences, and multi-residential formats allows Playoust Churcher to deliver high-quality, context-aware multigenerational designs—grounded in both aesthetics and regulatory compliance.

Proactive Planning for Future Needs

The team initiates discussions about multigenerational use early in the design process—even if the client hasn’t raised it. This foresight unlocks long-term flexibility and minimizes redesign cost down the track.

Enhanced Livability with Elegant Design

Projects such as the Mosman home demonstrate how multigenerational design can embody luxury. Thoughtful features—like integrated lift access and high-end finishes—blend function with an elevated residential experience.

Meet the Author

Brett Churcher

Managing Director & Nominated Architect 
NSW Architect Registration No. 5924

With over 30 years of architectural experience, Brett Churcher leads Playoust Churcher Architects with a rare combination of design expertise and commercial insight. As a registered architect and Managing Director, Brett has played a pivotal role in delivering high-end single residential homes and boutique medium-density developments across Sydney’s North Shore and beyond.

Brett’s unique strength lies in his deep understanding of both architectural design and the Sydney property market. His valuation background enables him to align creative vision with practical feasibility, ensuring each project achieves both aesthetic excellence and financial viability.

At Playoust Churcher, Brett drives the studio’s growth, strategy, and leadership, while remaining closely connected to what matters most: the client. His ability to see the bigger picture from a client’s perspective and to guide projects seamlessly through the design process is at the heart of his role and reputation.