INTRODUCTION

A housing concept known as "intergenerational living" involves many generations living together in one
house, focusing on elders and children. In addition to offering practical advantages like shared caring and
cost savings, it strengthens family ties and improves emotional support. Due to rising housing costs, an
increase in the need for elder care, and a desire for stronger family ties, this arrangement is growing in
popularity.

The benefits of intergenerational living are twofold: younger generations develop important life skills
and stronger bonds with their elders, while seniors experience less loneliness and more wellbeing.
Families can provide a supportive atmosphere by distributing duties, assets, and knowledge among age
groups.

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Living across generations is being acknowledged more and more as a way to address changes in the
economy, population, and culture. In the past, extended families shared household duties and lived
together, but as urbanization has increased and family arrangements have changed, there are now more
nuclear families and elderly folks who are socially isolated.

Intergenerational living is becoming more and more popular for a number of reasons:

1. Aging Population: Families may find shared living arrangements to be a sensible alternative due to the
growing need for care and assistance from the aging population.
2. Economic Pressures: As housing costs rise, families face financial difficulties that lead them to pool
resources through multigenerational living arrangements.
3. Social Connectivity: By reducing loneliness and providing emotional support, this living situation
strengthens bonds between generations.
4. Cultural Shifts: A greater understanding of the value of communal life and family relationships is
driving many people to want stronger relationships with relatives.

5. Interest in Academic study and Policy: There has been a notable upsurge in study examining the
advantages and difficulties of intergenerational living, with the goal of identifying successful strategies
and advancing this trend.
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Intergenerational living presents a valuable solution to various modern social issues, such as aging
populations, rising housing costs, and increasing social isolation. However, despite its potential benefits
—such as enhanced familial relationships, shared responsibilities, and improved emotional well-being—
many families encounter significant barriers that inhibit the widespread adoption of intergenerational
living arrangements.

The main issues that need to be addressed include:

1. Cultural Resistance: Societal norms and cultural beliefs often prioritize nuclear family structures,
leading to a reluctance among families to consider intergenerational living. This resistance can be rooted
in misconceptions about living arrangements, such as viewing them as a sign of failure or lack of
independence.

2. Conflict and Communication: Variations in lifestyles, values, and expectations between different
generations can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. Effective communication is crucial for resolving
these differences, yet many families lack the tools or strategies to navigate these conversations
constructively.

3. Space and Privacy Constraints: Finding suitable housing that can accommodate multiple generations
while providing enough privacy for each individual can be challenging. Urban areas, in particular, face
housing shortages and high costs, making it difficult for families to secure larger or modified living
spaces.

4. Financial Limitations: While intergenerational living can alleviate long-term financial burdens by
sharing costs, the initial expenses associated with modifying homes or finding appropriate housing can
be prohibitive for many families. Additionally, economic instability may deter families from pursuing
these arrangements.

5. Insufficient Support Services: There is often a lack of resources and support systems to assist families
in managing the complexities of intergenerational living. This includes challenges related to caregiving,
emotional support, and conflict resolution, which can overwhelm families unprepared for these
dynamics.

6. Policy and Regulatory Barriers: Existing housing policies may not adequately support or incentivize
intergenerational living arrangements. Zoning laws, lack of funding for supportive housing models, and
inadequate social services can limit the feasibility of such living arrangements for many families.

7. Health and Well-Being Concerns: The health needs of older adults require special consideration in
intergenerational living arrangements. Families may struggle with ensuring adequate care, addressing
health-related issues, and maintaining the physical and mental well-being of all members.
8. Stigmatization of Elderly Care: There can be societal stigma associated with caring for elderly family
members at home, which may discourage families from pursuing intergenerational living as a viable
option.

To fully realize the benefits of intergenerational living, it is essential to address these challenges. This
study aims to identify the barriers families face in adopting intergenerational living arrangements and
explore potential strategies for promoting successful, sustainable solutions that enhance the well-being
of all generations involved. By examining these issues, the research seeks to contribute to the
development of policies and practices that support intergenerational living as a viable option for modern
families.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

GOALS

To explore the benefits, challenges, and best practices of intergenerational living and develop strategies
to promote its adoption as a viable housing model that enhances the well-being of all family members
across generations.

OBJECTIVES

1. Understand the Motivations for Intergenerational Living:

Analyze the primary reasons families choose intergenerational living, including economic
pressures, caregiving needs, and the desire for stronger family bonds.

2. Identify Barriers and Challenges:

Explore the obstacles families face in adopting intergenerational living, such as space limitations,
cultural resistance, and potential conflicts between generations.

3. Measure the Social and Emotional Impact:

Assess how intergenerational living affects the social connections, mental health, and emotional
well-being of both younger and older generations.

4. Evaluate Financial and Practical Benefits:

Determine the financial advantages, such as shared expenses, and practical benefits, like pooled
caregiving, that make intergenerational living a sustainable option.

5. Investigate Successful Design and Housing Models:

Study different intergenerational housing setups, such as shared homes and specialized
communities, to identify physical and structural elements that contribute to positive outcomes.

6. Create Guidelines for Effective Intergenerational Cohabitation:

Develop best practices for managing shared responsibilities, maintaining privacy, and fostering
healthy communication among family members.

7. Propose Strategies for Promoting Intergenerational Living:

Suggest community programs, educational campaigns, and policy interventions that could
encourage more families to consider intergenerational living arrangements.
 8. Support Policy Development:
Offer recommendations to policymakers on how to create a supportive environment for
intergenerational living, such as housing incentives, zoning reforms, and social services.

Achieving these objectives will provide a deeper understanding of intergenerational living’s potential and
inform strategies for families, communities, and governments to support and optimize this living model.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The study of intergenerational living is significant for several reasons:

1. Strengthening Family Bonds:

It helps enhance relationships between different generations, fostering communication and
emotional support within families.

2. Reducing Social Isolation:

Intergenerational living can alleviate loneliness, particularly for older adults, by promoting
connections and supportive environments.

3. Economic Advantages:
The research highlights financial benefits, such as shared housing costs and pooled resources for
caregiving, making it a practical solution for families facing rising living expenses.

4. Informing Policy Development:

Findings can guide policymakers in creating supportive frameworks for intergenerational living,
including housing incentives and community programs.

5. Promoting Sustainable Housing Solutions:

The study advocates for intergenerational living as an innovative approach to address housing
shortages and create affordable options.

6. Supporting Aging Populations:

It provides insights on effectively caring for older adults while allowing them to maintain
independence.

7. Expanding Research on Family Dynamics:

The study contributes to understanding how different generations interact in shared living
arrangements, filling gaps in existing family research.

8. Encouraging Cultural Acceptance:

By raising awareness, the study promotes acceptance of intergenerational living as a beneficial
option for modern families.

In summary, this study offers valuable insights into how intergenerational living can improve the quality
of life for families and communities while addressing key societal challenges.
DESIGN CONCEPT

The concept for a bird-shaped roof design aimed at intergenerational living symbolizes harmony and
unity while addressing the diverse needs of residents. The roof, inspired by the silhouette of a bird in
flight, features sweeping curves and raised peaks, constructed from sustainable materials such as solar
tiles or green roofs to seamlessly blend with nature. The interior boasts an open plan layout that
encourages social interaction, with designated zones for family gatherings alongside private spaces for
quiet time. Each living unit is designed with flexibility in mind. Large skylights and windows along the
curved roof allow ample natural light and enhance ventilation, while indoor gardens or green walls
promote a healthy environment.

The design includes communal areas, fostering bonding and social activities among residents. Multi-
purpose rooms cater to various activities, including yoga and arts and crafts. Accessibility features ensure
that the design accommodates individuals of all ages and abilities, with ramps, wide doorways, and
accessible bathrooms. Outdoor spaces provide shared terraces or balconies for relaxation and gardening.
The color palette features earthy tones combined with vibrant colors inspired by birds, creating a lively
yet calming atmosphere, complemented by natural textures like wood and stone to enhance the sensory
experience.

Sustainability is a key consideration, integrating renewable energy sources like solar panels and
rainwater harvesting systems to minimize the ecological footprint. Surrounding the building with native
plants not only attracts local wildlife but also enhances biodiversity. Overall, this bird-shaped roof design
promotes intergenerational living by creating a nurturing environment where different generations can
thrive together while maintaining their individual needs, embracing functionality, community,
sustainability, and a deep connection to nature.

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DESIGN INSPIRATION

Designing a roof inspired by the shape of a hawk can create a striking visual impact while promoting
intergenerational living. Here are some inspirational ideas for such a roof design:

1. Sculptural Form

 Curved Roofline: Incorporate gentle curves that mimic the wings of a hawk in flight. This can
create a dynamic and fluid aesthetic.

 V-Shaped Peaks: Design the roof with V-shaped peaks to symbolize the hawk’s wings. This could
also enhance natural ventilation.

2. Natural Materials

 Wood and Stone: Use materials like reclaimed wood or local stone to reflect the natural habitat
of hawks, promoting a connection to nature.

 Green Roof: Integrate vegetation that mimics the hawk’s environment, providing insulation and
biodiversity.

3. Large Overhangs

 Shade and Protection: Design overhangs that extend outward, similar to hawk wings, to provide
shade and shelter for outdoor areas where families can gather.

 Rainwater Harvesting: Use the overhangs to channel rainwater into storage systems, promoting
sustainability.

4. Sky View Windows

 Large Skylights: Incorporate skylights in the roof design to allow natural light to flood the
interior, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for all generations.

 Viewing Platforms: Create rooftop terraces or balconies that offer a “hawk’s eye view,” fostering
connections between family members and the surrounding landscape.

5. Community Spaces

 Shared Roof Gardens: Design communal areas on the roof where residents can gather, grow
food, or relax, encouraging intergenerational interaction.

 Activity Zones: Include spaces for different age groups, such as play areas for children and quiet
zones for older adults.

6. Symbolic Features

 Color Palette: Use earthy tones reminiscent of a hawk’s plumage to unify the design with its
natural surroundings.

7. Energy Efficiency
  Solar Panels: Consider integrating solar panels into the roof design to promote sustainability and
energy independence.

 Passive Design: Use the roof’s shape to enhance passive heating and cooling, making the living
spaces comfortable year-round.

8. Accessibility

 Gentle Slopes: Ensure that any raised areas or levels in the roof design are accessible to
individuals of all ages and abilities.

 Elder-Friendly Features: Include ramps or lifts to provide easy access to rooftop amenities.

By blending these ideas into a cohesive design, you can create a roof inspired by the majestic hawk that
enhances intergenerational living through aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.

DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

“Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you.”

--Frank Lloyd Wright