Family matters

A couple of years ago we decided it was time to pitch in and do up the family home. Dad had worked hard for us and we wanted to say thanks.

Mum and Dad had moved in more than 50 years ago, so it has always been a bit of a safe haven, with the five children moving back many times – sometimes for years!

We didn’t just want to do the electrics and give it a lick of paint. We wanted a home where three generations – or more – could live side by side, that was also safe and comfortable.

For that we needed the right architect and builder. For months I trawled websites and magazines and put my name down on numerous lists. The Royal Institute of British Architects was one of them, and I was delighted when I saw that they had teamed up with Shelter.

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Handing over £40 to a worthy cause in exchange for an hour with an architect was for us the perfect start.

Annette Marchini came to our home in early summer. We sat in the garden and chatted over a cup of tea while Dad hovered in the background. She understood our ‘multi-generational home’ idea and I was touched by the respect she showed our Dad – and that was the clincher.

Incorporating the opinions of such a varied bunch of people isn’t easy. But Annette did just that. She drew up numerous plans – that had to be run by the entire family – and worked with the local council.

Her ideas made the most of the space and the money we had. Now we have a bathroom on every floor, a loft bedroom with en suite and a kitchen/diner that leads to a large decked area overlooking the garden.

For the first time after many years, we all came home for Christmas last year. Dad was surrounded by his children, grandchildren, in-laws and family friends. They ranged in age from 13 to 82.

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