As your loved ones age, you may be weighing different options for their long-term living arrangements. With more families embracing multigenerational living, a custom in-law suite may be your best choice. If you are planning out your forever home, this additional private living space is perfect for beloved family members or even out-of-town guests.
While tackling this type of project may seem daunting – it doesn’t have to be. The team at Weaver Custom Homes is well-equipped to walk through the design and build process, every step of the way. Join our home experts below as we walk through the ins and outs of designing a custom-built mother-in-law suite!
The Basics of Building a Mother-In-Law Suite
A mother-in-law suite is essentially a secondary private living space that is attached to your home or located on your property. This type of suite typically includes a bedroom, full bathroom, living space, full kitchen or kitchenette, and a private entrance. The notion is to provide your guests with all that they need to live comfortably, from basic amenities to privacy.
The term “mother-in-law suite” can be used interchangeably with in-law suite, guest suite, and even private apartment. The term does not dictate who is likely to enjoy the accommodations – though we do see many homeowners planning these suites with elderly parents in mind!
When working with seasoned professionals, planning out your in-law suite can be quite simple. You will have time to think about floor plans, making sure the necessary rooms are precisely planned out, as well as any other features you wish to include. Your builders should be able to answer simple questions such as, “Can I build a mother-in-law suite on my property?” and more. The right builders will be able to make all your dreams come true, securing the perfect in-suite for valued family and guests.
Types of In-Law Apartments
When building a secondary living space, you can choose between a detached or attached in-law suite. Both options offer various advantages, and the size or shape of your property may influence which is best for you. Keep in mind that working with trusted builders such as Weaver Custom Homes ensures your suite is safe, beautiful, and up to code.
Attached In-Law Suites
An attached in-law suite is designed as an extension of your main house. This type of home addition can be built either as a wing, converted basement, or space above the garage and offers close proximity while maintaining a level of privacy and independence for your guest. An attached suite layout is ideal for elderly parents who may have higher medical needs or require frequent assistance, as it allows family members to stay close and easily check in throughout the day.
Building a mother-in-law suite as an attached unit can also be more cost-effective than a detached one, since it can share utilities and some infrastructure with the main house. Choosing an attached option when working on mother-in-law building plans is a practical way to implement multigenerational living without losing convenience or comfort.
Detached In-Law Suites
A detached in-law suite is a completely separate structure from the main home. This option is often designed as a guest house or standalone apartment. A detached suite may work for families who want to offer their loved ones greater independence and privacy, while still keeping them close by.
These suites are especially appealing when the property size allows for more space or when zoning regulations make them easier to build. For homeowners building an in-law suite with long-term flexibility in mind, this setup can also double as a rental unit, home office, or relaxing retreat. Overall, detached in-law suites provide the perfect balance between connection and autonomy.
3 Design Tips for Building a Mother-in-Law Suite
When building a custom mother-in-law suite, you will have a plethora of design options. If you’re looking for guidance as you make big design decisions, you have come to the right place. Below, the Weaver Custom Homes experts have compiled a few tips to guide you through this process!
Plan for Future Needs
Keep the future needs of your family in mind as you make design decisions. Now is the time to consider what mobility and medical support your loved one may have in the next five to ten years. They may be able to navigate stairs and tight corners now, but in a few years, they could require mobility assistance. Share your concerns with your builder to ensure your in-law suite is a safe retreat for your family, giving you peace of mind down the road.
Utilize Your Loved Ones Existing Furniture
As your family member prepares to move into a detached or attached in-law suite, they may be struggling with the idea of leaving their home behind. While planning a personalized interior design is important, you can also arrange to move some of your family member’s furniture into their newly built space to help ease the transition. Talk to your builder about designing and building an in-law suite with their already beloved furniture in mind. This will ensure their possessions are a good fit in the floor plan – and make your loved one’s new home instantly familiar.
Enhance Independent Living
Along with leaving their established home, your loved one is sacrificing a level of independence by moving into an in-law suite. Even if it’s for the best, they may mourn the life they once lived on their own. Try to keep things as independent as possible when planning out your in-law suite—while still keeping them safe. This might look like a private entrance with separate locks or providing their own landline phone number.
Additionally, homeowners can introduce smart home technology to encourage independence. With the help of security cameras and remote-controlled lighting, locks, and heating and cooling systems, families can ensure their aging parents are secure from a distance. Maintaining as much independence for as long as possible will benefit your loved one mentally, physically, and emotionally.
Partner With the Top Custom Home Builders in Ohio
Are you thinking about building a mother-in-law suite in the next few years? Whether you are considering a detached or attached in-law suite, Weaver Custom Homes is ready for the job. As one of the most trusted home builders in Ohio, our team offers decades of real world experience in all phases of floor plan creation, interior design, and construction. Schedule a visit today so we can start dreaming up the perfect suite for your loved one!
