Homes built for every generation: Canberra properties designed to adapt and evolve

Homes are always evolving, not just in how they look, inside and out, but in the purposes they need to serve.

Sure, they provide a comfortable lifestyle setting for core demographics such as working singles and couples, families and retirees, but not everyone fits neatly into those categories.

Today’s homes increasingly need to accommodate intergenerational families and adult children staying at home longer due to higher entry costs.

They must also support ageing home owners seeking independence and people with disability who require thoughtful, purpose-built design.

At 6 Palmer Street in Hall, a property on more than 2000 square metres could easily be described as a family compound capable of housing three generations.

The expansive home combines a fully renovated Canadian chalet with a substantial owner-built extension, creating two distinct yet connected residences, each with its own kitchen, living zones and private amenities. Six bedrooms and three bathrooms underscore its versatility.

Nick Paine of Momentum Property, who listed the property in the historic ACT village, says intergenerational living makes a lot of sense for many people in the current environment.

“There can be a lot of advantages for extended families living together under the same roof,” he says.

“These can include cost-sharing, providing care for older relatives, or grandparents helping ease the load on working parents.”

$1,995,000 - $2,195,000

25 Taylor Place, Greenleigh NSW 2620

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A different opportunity is presented at 25 Taylor Place, Greenleigh, where a large home set on nearly 4400 square metres feels like a private retreat. The six-bedroom, three-bathroom residence offers 450 square metres of living space and comes with DA approval for a second dwelling, a modern granny-flat option.

While the main home’s generous proportions provide plenty of flexibility for family and guests, an additional living space offers the potential to be designed around specific lifestyle or accessibility needs.

At 35 Dash Crescent, Fadden, a dual-occupancy arrangement offers another take on adaptable living. Across the two dwellings, there are five bedrooms and three bathrooms on a 738-square-metre block.

The rear home has been purpose-designed for independent living for a person with disability, while the front residence is wheelchair accessible and could accommodate a full-time carer.

Stephen Thompson of LJ Hooker Manuka, who lists the property, says the combination will appeal to people wanting to live independently while ageing or living with disability.

$995,000 - $1,195,000

35 Dash Crescent, Fadden ACT 2904

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“It’s rare to see this kind of option, particularly with spaces designed for purpose,” he says.

“For example, the rear dwelling offers a height-adjustable work surface, wheelchair clearance beneath and easy-reach appliances.”

Thoughtful design is often central to creating homes that can evolve with their occupants. Architects Wendy Christie and Claire Reece of Sonder Architects believe the best outcome begins with a tight brief and a clear understanding of client needs.

Earlier this year, they completed an inner-north home that had to meet both intergenerational and ageing-in-place requirements.

“It had to serve current needs and be future-proofed to allow the owners to continue living as independently as possible later in life,” Wendy says.

“The solution comprised three pavilions: one for guests and family, another for the central communal family spaces, and a third as a retreat for the owners.”

This approach provided privacy for each group while also creating opportunities to connect.

“It was important to get the balance right between those two needs,” Claire says.

“There was also innovation built into rooms that could serve multiple purposes. Essentially, they could expand and contract, like a study that could instantly become an additional bedroom when a guest arrives.”