BY BONNIE ODA
The concept of multigenerational homes — residences that allow three or more generations of a family to live together — continues to grow in popularity. Graham Builders, a local design-build contractor, has guided hundreds of homeowners through the steps of creating dwellings that allow each family unit to flourish.
“Allowing privacy and independence is one of the most fundamental design considerations when multiple generations are brought under one roof,” says Evan Fujimoto, president of Graham Builders and certified aging-in-place specialist. “Autonomy encompasses more than having a bonus room off the master suite or adding a wet bar. It means blocking the sound of grandpa’s blaring 4 a.m. television show. Collaborating with a designer and construction manager experienced in multigenerational residences will mitigate unwelcome noises and other annoyances that can arise when living in an extended family compound.”
Storage is another hot topic among families. Graham Builders looks at storage management, adding individual family closets and drop-zones in the laundry, garage and mud rooms. These attractive hubs keep residences tidy and encourage household members to respect boundaries — a vital consideration for a successful lifestyle.
Another common multigenerational concern is the kitchen. For most, the kitchen is the hub of day-to-day living and one of the largest challenges of designing a multigenerational home. Honolulu’s building ordinances limits residential homes to one kitchen and one wet bar per dwelling. However, when three or more nuclear families are living under one roof, a single kitchen is not enough.
Graham Builders’ solution to this common dilemma is its ohana kitchen.
“Think of this as a kitchen stadium, local style,” says Fujimoto. “This is a larger kitchen with multiple prep stations, sinks and appliances that allows multiple families to prep, cook and eat separately, yet simultaneously.”
Graham Builders has built a powerful reputation as the authority on multigenerational homes over its 32 years in business. The company was the first home construction company in Hawaii to have a certified aging-in-place specialist on staff. The company’s experience and certifications led county and state agencies to seek advice from Graham Builders on best practices in home design and construction for the well-being of elders and physically challenged individuals.
A leader in the design and construction of multigenerational homes and aging-in-place design, local company Graham Builders is the recipient of the Better Business Bureau of Hawaii Torch Award for ethics in small business. Learn more about the basics of home remodeling and rebuilding at Graham Builders’ free, virtual Building Your Home for Life seminar from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 9. Registration and information can be found at grahambuilders.com, or call 808-593-2808.
GRAHAM BUILDERS
CONTACT 808-593-2808
WEB grahambuilders.com
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