Page 5 - Hawaii Renovation - July 3, 2022

GRAHAM BUILDERS
COVER STORY
JULY 3, 2022
HAWAII RENOVATION 5
BY CAROLINE WRIGHT
The percentage of Americans living in multigenerational
households has nearly qua- drupled over the past 10 years, from 7% to 26%. In Hawaii, the numbers are even higher.
Fittingly, in-law suites have never been more popular. And according to Evan Fu- jimoto of Graham Builders, a holistic approach to the design of an in-law suite can actually enhance a family’s relationships and connection.
“Living together means more than co-existing under one roof,” suggests Fujimo- to, who is president of the award-winning Honolulu de- sign/build firm. “It also means
that each generation values one another and cultivates in- volvement in daily life — shar- ing stories; teaching lessons; providing feedback, support and encouragement.”
The vast majority of mul- tigenerational households — some 98% — say their homes are happy. That’s thanks to smart design, good support and services — and strong family relationships. For ag- ing-in-place, those relation- ships are critical.
“Accessible features pro- vide access, but how do kupuna stay involved with family? You don’t want them to feel isolated where they can’t — or won’t — partici- pate in daily activities,” Fu- jimoto observes.
A thoughtfully designed
in-law suite, planned with input from everybody in the ohana, can help a family stay meaningfully connected in ways that enrich and deep- en all. In fact, 79% of those living in multigenerational households say enhanced bonds or relationships with other family members is the greatest benefit.
SECURITY, PRIVACY, ACCESSIBILITY: THE IN-LAW SUITE DELIVERS
While not quite as elabo- rate — or as expensive — as a full ADU (accessory dwell- ing unit), the well-planned in- law suite is comfortable and accessible. It both facilitates privacy and encourages fam- ily interactions, and can be modified to accommodate a family’s future needs.
“In Hawaii, the in-law suite is normally built as a wing of the main house, or separated through buffer zones like laundry rooms or carports,” explains Bonnie
Oda, client care advisor for Graham Builders. “It’s gener- ally designed as an en suite — a master bedroom with attached master bath, some- times a sitting area, and often a wet bar, with fridge, sink, and counter space for small appliances.”
Ideally designed with high sound insulation for privacy, in-law suites often include intercom systems for easy, quick communication.
“We also recommend pet- friendly design,” says Oda. “Many kupuna have pets they’ll want to bring along.”
The suite should have a wide, separate entrance, easily accessible by medical professionals in the event of an emergency. Its bathroom should have grab bars, a comfort-height toilet and bi- det, and a zero-step shower, and optimally, a “loading” zone next to the commode. Outside, a security system with cameras and extra mo- tion detector floodlights can
help ensure safety. When the design is complete, a Certi- fied Aging in Place Special- ist should review it for safety and accessibility.
Ensure that your invest- ment will be able to adapt to future needs.
“An experienced designer will help you think beyond current need,” says Fujimo- to. “Perhaps your budget doesn’t currently allow for an ADU, or you don’t have need for one now. Needs change. It’s good for your designer to discuss the potential options of your space, so possible fu- ture renovations will be easier and less costly.”
Fujimoto recommends that the entire ohana par- ticipate in the process.
“Everybody must feel ac- tive, valued and involved in the decision-making and design of the in-law suite,” he says.
This helps create a sense of satisfaction and content- ment with the results, and
desire to nourish the con- nection.
“Living with family offers surprising gifts,” Fujimoto observes. “The greatest gift, as many families later realize, is that the culture of the fam- ily — history, stories, recipes, songs — is passed from gen- eration to generation.”
A leader in the design and construction of multi- generational homes and ag- ing-in-place design, Graham Builders is the recipient of the Better Business Bureau of Hawaii Torch Award for ethics in small business. The next free Building Your Home for Life seminar is scheduled for Saturday, July 9. Register now at grahambuilders.com or call 808-593-2808.
SOURCE
GU.ORG/EXPLORE- OUR-TOPICS/ MULTIGENERATIONAL- HOUSEHOLDS
GRAHAM BUILDERS CONTACT 808-593-2808 WEB grahambuilders.com
COVER STORY