Designing Homes for Three Generations: Monika Choudhary in GoodHomes India
GoodHomes India features Monika Choudhary of Habitat Architects in its August 2026 Point of View column.
In “Designing Homes for Three Generations,” she asks how families can share one home while preserving independence.
Moreover, the column explains why successful multigenerational homes depend on relationships, routines, accessibility and future care.
Why Multigenerational Homes Need More Than Space
Many Indian families value support, continuity and shared memory across generations.
However, grandparents, parents and younger adults often follow different schedules and need varying degrees of privacy.
Therefore, adding bedrooms cannot resolve every requirement.
Architecture must understand how each generation gathers, works, rests, hosts and withdraws.
As a result, the home can support closeness without making togetherness feel compulsory.
Three Models of Living Together
The column explores three broad spatial approaches:
- A shared home organised around one entrance, kitchen, dining table and daily rhythm.
- A connected house with private suites, sitting areas, pantries or separate floors.
- A family cluster linked by a courtyard, garden, verandah or shared dining space.
Each model creates a different balance between connection and autonomy.
For example, a common dining area can encourage natural meetings without demanding constant interaction.
Meanwhile, an independent suite can help a young couple feel at home within the larger household.
In addition, courtyards and gardens can become shared ground where family members return to one another.
Planning for Privacy, Ageing and Care
Thoughtful planning begins with direct questions about everyday life.
Who needs quiet mornings, and who returns home late?
Can grandparents reach their bedroom, bathroom, dining area and garden comfortably?
Moreover, can the house support future care without making anyone feel dependent before their time?
These conversations shape circulation, entrances, private zones and shared spaces more deeply than finishes.
Consequently, privacy does not weaken family life; careful boundaries can preserve it.
A Home Where Every Generation Belongs
Monika argues that success does not depend on how many people occupy one roof.
Instead, a multigenerational home succeeds when every resident feels respected, connected and free to withdraw.
GoodHomes India published the feature in Volume 17, Issue 5, dated August 2026.
The profile identifies Monika as Founder, Chief Development Officer and Growth Strategist, Habitat Architects.
Finally, the photographs appear courtesy of Habitat Architects.
Explore Habitat Architects’ approach to multigenerational residential design and homes shaped around belonging.
The role follows the GoodHomes source and Habitat’s current public profile: Monika Choudhary on Habitat Architects
