Add a floor to your house to make it a two-generation house
- coraliefortin076
- Jul 1
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 18
Living with multiple generations under one roof is a trend that continues to grow in popularity in Quebec. Faced with changing family needs, economic realities, and an aging population, bi-generational homes are an increasingly popular solution. Add a floor to a house in Quebec not only creates additional living space, but also provides a living environment tailored to everyone, while maintaining proximity to one another.
At Plan Maison Québec, we specialize in designing customized house plans and renovations, including floor addition projects for bi-generational homes. With our expertise, we support you every step of the way, from design to completion.
Why choose a bi-generational home?
A bi-generational home, also known as an intergenerational home, allows two related households—usually parents and their adult children or grandparents—to live together while maintaining a desired level of independence. This configuration can be adapted to various objectives: providing support to seniors, sharing family responsibilities, or reducing homeownership costs.
In addition to being a humane and practical solution, this cohabitation allows for strong bonds between generations. It provides daily support, reduces loneliness for seniors, and provides a secure environment for children.
Converting a single-family home into a bi-generational home is therefore much more than a renovation: it's an investment in the quality of life of the entire family.
Adding a floor: a strategic choice
Among the various ways to design an intergenerational home, adding an extra floor is both efficient and advantageous. This solution is particularly suitable if the land doesn't allow for a ground-level extension or if the outdoor space is already maximized.
Adding an extra floor allows for vertical separation of the two living units, providing greater privacy for each generation. One unit can occupy the ground floor, and the other the new floor, with independent access if the layout allows.
By working with Plan Maison Québec, you benefit from custom-designed plans to maximize living space while ensuring the project's compliance with municipal standards and technical requirements.
Municipal regulations: a must-check
Before embarking on such a project, it is crucial to consult your municipality. Rules vary from city to city, whether regarding the maximum permitted height, the surface area of the added floor, or requirements for intergenerational use.
Some municipalities require that the additional dwelling be physically connected to the main dwelling, while still having certain independent facilities such as a kitchen or bathroom. Others limit access to this dwelling to close family members.
That's why Plan Maison Québec begins each project with a thorough review of applicable municipal bylaws. Our team ensures that your plans are accepted as soon as the permit application is submitted, saving you costly and unnecessary delays.
Designing plans: adapting your house to your reality
Adding a floor isn't just about building a new structure. It's an opportunity to completely rethink the layout of your home, taking into account the specific needs of each generation.
Do you want two completely independent units or shared spaces like a family room or laundry room? Do your parents require specific mobility arrangements? Do you need separate entrances or clearly defined privacy zones?
At Plan Maison Québec, we design detailed and tailored plans, incorporating your wishes, budgetary constraints, and the building's technical requirements. Our plans take into account sound insulation, ventilation, natural light, and the ergonomics of the living spaces.
Budget: How much should you budget for a floor addition project?
One of the biggest questions our clients ask is budget. And rightly so: adding a new floor represents a major investment that must be carefully planned.
1 ) Average cost of work
In general, the cost of a residential addition ranges between $300 and $360 per square foot in Quebec. This amount can vary depending on the type of structure to be modified, the materials chosen, the desired finishes, and the specifics of the project (existing house structure, site access, complexity of connections, etc.).
For a full 1,000-square-foot floor, you should therefore plan for a minimum budget of approximately $300,000 to $360,000, not including contingencies.
2 ) Related costs not to be overlooked
In addition to direct construction costs, several other costs must be considered:
Professional fees: technologist, structural engineer, architect if required.
Permits and municipal fees: permit fees, site plans, connection fees.
Demolition and preparation: If the existing roof must be removed, this will incur additional costs.
Temporary work: temporary relocation during construction, site security.
Interior finishing: cabinets, coverings, lighting, appliances.
Accessibility: addition of an interior or exterior staircase, or even a residential elevator in some cases.
3 ) Anticipate the unexpected
A good budget always includes a 10 to 20% safety margin for unforeseen events. Indeed, surprises can arise when opening walls or foundations, or due to sudden increases in material prices. Careful planning helps avoid unpleasant surprises and keeps your project on track.
At Plan Maison Québec, we help you establish a realistic and comprehensive budget right from the design phase. Our experts also assist you with material selection and tender management to maximize every dollar invested.
Achievement: Surround yourself with the right professionals
Once the plan is approved and the budget established, it's time to get started. This type of project requires the involvement of several trades, including carpenters, electricians, plumbers, roofers, and more. It's therefore essential to surround yourself with a reliable, competent, and well-coordinated team.
Plan Maison Québec works with reputable partner contractors in the field of residential construction and renovation. We can also advise you on selecting the best contractors based on your region and timeline. We offer personalized support to ensure that each stage of the project is completed on time and to the highest quality standards.
Technical and family considerations
Transforming a house into a bi-generational home isn't just about a physical division. It's also important to consider family dynamics, individual privacy, and the functionality of the spaces.
Accessibility: The added floor must be accessible, especially if seniors will be living there. Secure stairs, ramps, or even a residential elevator can be considered.
Acoustic insulation: Soundproofing between the two units is crucial to maintaining peace and quiet. High-performance materials should be used for floors, walls, and ceilings.
Thermal comfort: Heating and ventilation must be adapted to ensure the comfort of each unit, with separate controls if possible.
Shared or non-shared spaces: Determine from the outset what will be shared (entrance, courtyard, parking, laundry room) and what will be private. A good architectural plan allows you to reconcile the two without compromise.
Conclusion : add a floor to your house in Quebec
Adding an extra floor to transform your home into a bi-generational residence is a promising project, from a human, economic, and real estate perspective. In addition to bringing generations together, you'll optimize your living space and enhance your assets. At Plan Maison Québec, we understand the importance of these family projects. Our mission is to offer you personalized plans that comply with standards, fit your budget, and are designed for the well-being of all.
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