University Archives

This study explored how retrofitting social housing can better support multigenerational families in Windsor. This investigation questioned how existing housing stock can be adapted to meet the socio-cultural and spatial needs of multigenerational families.

Canadian cities are facing a growing housing crisis, with Windsor needing approximately 13,000 new homes by 2031 (City of Windsor). However, many low-income and immigrant families cannot afford new construction, and existing housing is largely designed for nuclear families rather than multigenerational living (City of Windsor).

Research questions included what design features are needed to support multigenerational living, what aspects of existing social housing require adaptation, and how socio-cultural needs differ from those of nuclear households.

The study employed a mixed-method approach, including interviews with multigenerational families, precedent analysis, and spatial testing through interactive design exercises and sketch problems.

Findings uncovered that privacy, spatial flexibility, and a variety of shared and semi-private areas are critical to successful multigenerational living. These findings show that adaptable interventions such as reconfigured layouts, added partitions, and flexible-use spaces can improve functionality while supporting cultural practices and family dynamics.

Works Cited:

City of Windsor. (2024, September 16). Planning for Windsor’s housing growth: 13,000 new homes by 2031. https://www.citywindsor.ca/

City of Windsor. 2025, Housing Needs Assessment, Accessed 2025.