Multigenerational Living
More room for family · Space to live independently
Adult children, parents and extended family can each bring different needs to a shared property. Operandi Design Build helps Greater Victoria homeowners plan suites, additions and renovations that make room for family while respecting independence, privacy and the way each household wants to live.
Book a site visit · Read the homeowner guide
A home that works for both households
The right arrangement begins with how your family wants to live. You may be creating space for an adult child, bringing aging parents closer, accommodating extended family or planning for a household that will change over time. Some families need a self-contained secondary suite with its own kitchen and entrance. Others need bedrooms, bathrooms and shared spaces that work better within one home. We help clarify the options and the approval path before the scope grows.
Basement and in-law suites: assess existing space, access, headroom, daylight and building services.
Additions and reconfigured layouts: explore space for another generation or household while maintaining the function of the main home.
Renovations for living comfortably at home: consider bathing, circulation, storage, lighting and laundry as needs change.
Detached accommodation: investigate garden-suite options where the property, municipal rules and project budget support them.
Prepare for your first site visit
Our two-page planning worksheet helps adult children, parents and extended family discuss shared and private space, compare living arrangements, and record property questions, budget and priorities before a feasibility review.
Download the multigenerational home planning checklist (PDF). Print it, discuss it together and bring your notes to the first conversation.
Start with feasibility
An existing basement can look straightforward until the measurements, drainage and mechanical layout are considered together. We start by identifying the questions that could change the decision to proceed.
Walk through the property. Discuss the intended occupants, priorities, timing and available budget.
Agree on a paid feasibility scope. Define the measurements, preliminary layout work, municipal enquiries, consultant input and budget review needed for your property.
Make a clear decision. Review the viable options, key risks, preliminary budget and next steps before authorizing further design.
Develop the approved direction. Coordinate the appropriate design professionals, permit information, trade input and selections.
Build under a separate construction agreement. Establish the scope, pricing approach, responsibilities and schedule before construction begins.
Feasibility deliverables and fees are agreed in advance. Design and engineering services are provided by the appropriate professionals where required, and approvals remain subject to the relevant authorities.
Details that make the space feel like home
Privacy is about more than a door. We consider the relationship between entrances, bedrooms, shared outdoor areas and daily routines. Sound separation, ventilation, lighting, comfortable circulation and useful storage deserve attention early, when the layout is still flexible. Where accessibility is important, an occupational therapist can help define the occupant's needs alongside the design team.
Local knowledge
Clear project leadership
You work directly with Jesse Skulmoski, a Licensed Residential Builder, PMP and MPA. Operandi brings hands-on building experience, trusted trade relationships and disciplined coordination to renovations in Victoria, Oak Bay, Saanich and the surrounding Greater Victoria area.
Meet Jesse · Explore our services · As featured in Boulevard Magazine
Read our basement-suite cost guide for scoped planning examples, contingency and the conditions that change a budget.
Questions before you begin
Can a family suite qualify for a tax credit?
Some projects and households may qualify. Eligibility depends on the people, the work, the completion year and the applicable program rules. Our homeowner guide links to official sources and separates existing programs from proposed changes.
Can you give us a budget before detailed design?
A feasibility review can establish a preliminary budget range and identify the information needed to refine it. Existing conditions, services, access and the required approvals all influence that range.
Do we need plans before contacting you?
You can begin with your ideas, existing plans if available and a conversation about the property.
Let's explore what your home could make possible
Tell us who the space is for, where the property is and what you hope to achieve. We will discuss the appropriate next step.