Making Room for the People We Love
Central Ohio is growing—and fast. Our region added more than 30,000 new residents last year alone, and that growth isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Yet while our population expands, housing inventory is falling behind. Central Ohio simply doesn’t have enough homes to meet demand, and many that are available aren’t ideal for today’s modern family dynamics.
One solution more families are embracing? Multi-generational living.
According to the National Association of Realtors, 17% of recent home buyers purchased homes to accommodate multiple generations under one roof. At the Cleary Company, we see this trend reflected every day in the remodeling projects our clients are bringing to the table—particularly through home additions designed for aging parents or adult children.
“We’ve seen a big rise in families adding dedicated living suites for another generation,” says George Cleary II, Project Developer at the Cleary Company. “It might be a new wing for mom to age in place, or a finished basement with a separate entrance for a grown child moving back home. People want to stay connected, but they also want to do it
Why Now?
There are a few key reasons why multi-generational living is gaining momentum here in central Ohio:
- Housing inventory is tight. With fewer homes on the market, many families are opting to remodel their current homes rather than compete in a crowded real estate environment.
- People want to stay in the neighborhoods they love. Instead of relocating a parent to an assisted living facility or asking adult children to move out of state, families are finding ways to expand their homes to meet everyone’s needs—without losing their roots.
- The economics make sense. Rising interest rates, construction and utility costs, property taxes, and senior living expenses make it more practical in many cases to invest in a home addition than to buy something new or pay for long-term care.
What These Additions Look Like
When it comes to designing for multiple generations, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. That’s why we work closely with families to create plans that reflect their specific lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. Some of the most common features we include are:
- Main-level bedroom suites with accessible bathrooms for aging parents
- Separate entrances and kitchenettes to provide autonomy within the same household
- Finished lower levels or converted garages that offer privacy for young adults
- Shared common areas—like open kitchens and living spaces—that bring everyone together
It’s all about striking a balance: enough separation for independence, but enough connection for real, meaningful support.
Building for the Long Haul
For many families, these changes aren’t temporary. They’re planning ahead for what life may look like five, ten, or even twenty years down the road. That’s why thoughtful, future-ready design is essential.
“We’re not just building for now—we’re building for what’s next,” George adds. “If a parent’s mobility changes, or a child stays longer than expected, the space still needs to work. That’s where good design makes all the difference.”
Rooted in Central Ohio
As a team that lives and works in this community, we understand what matters most to the people of central Ohio: home, family, and connection. We’re proud to help homeowners reimagine their spaces in a way that strengthens those values.
If you’ve been considering how your home might flex to fit the people you care about most, we’d love to help. Whether you’re adding an in-law suite, finishing a basement, or exploring creative new options to invest in your property, we’re here to guide you through it—start to finish.
Because when your home works for everyone under its roof, life gets a little easier. And a whole lot richer.
If Home Is Where Family Gathers, Make Sure There’s Room
When loved ones need you close, your home should rise to meet the moment. Let’s build the space they deserve—together. Contact our Client Relations Coordinator by scheduling a call or completing a new project form on our website.
