Discover why family compound house plans are the perfect solution for multigenerational living.
This North Carolina home features two self-contained suites, perfect for guests, adult children, or in-laws.
For decades, a household in the U.S. typically consisted of one or two individuals on their own or with their nuclear family. That norm, however, is changing. In 2022, Pew Research Center reported a striking increase in multigenerational households across the country, revealing that numbers have quadrupled since the 1970s.
For some, a multigenerational living arrangement is a family tradition and cultural norm. Cost-savings are a motivation for sure, but for many, the benefits extend beyond that. To wit, there’s the fact that meals become family gatherings, family elders are not at risk for loneliness, children gain valuable shared experiences with older family members, and parents find much-needed support. For many, a shared household is a safety net for health, wealth, and happiness.
Regardless of motivation, multifamily compound house plans from Woodhouse offer the opportunity to reap all the benefits of multigenerational living — and more.
Large, timber-framed kitchens provide room for all to gather around.
Why Timber Frames?
Multigenerational households live a little differently. Timber frames represent a prime opportunity to optimize the multigenerational lifestyle, and Woodhouse offers a customizable approach with our high-end collection of multifamily compound house plans.
A timber frame construction system allows for total customization — even with a pre-designed plan. Conventional stick frame builds use interior walls to support the home’s weight. A timber frame, however, is entirely supported by the exterior walls and a few interior posts. This attribute means a timber frame affords complete freedom to design the interior in a way that perfectly balances togetherness and independence, giving the best of both worlds to inhabitants.
This design flexibility also applies to timber frame exteriors. Timber frame houses can be outfitted in many different architectural styles — contemporary, farmhouse, mountain modern, coastal, craftsman, lakeside, and even cute cottages — flexing to your tastes and regional aesthetics. These homes pair brilliantly with finishes and materials such as glass, stone, metal, and different types of siding to evoke any aesthetic you desire. Think: warm and cozy, moody and dramatic, or sleek and modern.
And don’t forget that a timber frame construction system allows for the use of structural insulated panels (SIPs), which create an incredibly tight thermal envelope around the home. Paired with strategic siting and passive solar heating, a timber frame home is the ultimate in energy efficiency and comfortable living.
Single-level living makes aging in place easy. Woodhouse makes it sophisticated.
Why Woodhouse?
The team at Woodhouse has the unique skills and expertise to create effective spaces that fulfill the needs of a multigenerational lifestyle. Thoughtfully designed, the Woodhouse Family Compound Series caters to young and old alike by taking full advantage of a timber frame’s inherent flexibility and adaptability. Favorite elements include:
- Open Layouts. Vaulted ceilings, large windows and window walls, balconies, decks, and unique layouts that enhance natural light ensure a sense of openness across the home.
- Design for all ages. Kids love cozy lofts, while studios and office spaces make practical work-from-home spaces for adults. Plus, an array of universal design elements can be integrated seamlessly into any home design to empower residents to age in place.
- Custom modifications. A multifamily compound house plan can be further optimized with luxurious extras that make your timber frame lifestyle a dream come true.
Contemporary family compound designs like the BryceCanyon include multiple structures for flexible family living.
Family Compound Floor Plans
Woodhouse offers two multifamily compound house plan designs that serve as an excellent launching point for your own idea of timber frame perfection. The BryceCanyon and WalnutCanyon both feature a main house and two detached guest suites and are designed for family events, visitors, and entertaining. And just like every Woodhouse design, these can be modified to fit your needs, personal tastes, and lifestyle as well as your property’s unique characteristics. (And don’t forget, we can always start from scratch, too.)
Thinking Outside the Box
Another approach to a multifamily compound house plan is the inclusion of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). Located near the main house, these small-statured structures are heavy on style and practicality. They are a brilliant solution for giving family members a detached living space that keeps them close. An ADU can also be used as flex space for a private office, guesthouse, or a rental for an additional income.
Family Matters
Ready to prioritize your timber frame family compound? Contact us to discuss your needs, property, and journey to your family’s timber frame heritage home. You may find that a multifamily compound house plan by Woodhouse is just the luxury solution you’re looking for.
