Designing for Multi-Generational Living: Mother-in-Law Suite Options in the Chatham County, NC Area

As families grow and evolve, homes designed with flexibility and multi-generational living in mind are more important than ever. Mother-in-law suites (MIL suites) offer a practical and comfortable solution for accommodating extended family members while maintaining privacy within a shared home.

In the beautiful Pittsboro, Chapel Hill, and Chatham County NC areas, homeowners are drawn to the customization options of these integrated designs. Whether you prefer a spacious first-floor bedroom with an ensuite bath or a private suite with a sitting area and kitchenette, there are endless ways to tailor your home to meet your family’s needs.

Let’s explore three distinct approaches, using customizable floor plans from Travars Built Homes.

Option 1: Convert a Floor Plan to Include a MIL Suite

In the Astoria Mill floor plan, you’ll find a perfect starting point for customization. By modifying a portion of the layout, you can create a fully functional MIL suite that fits seamlessly into the home’s design.

For example:

  • Add a private bathroom to a first-floor bedroom.
  • Expand the space to include a cozy sitting area.
  • Ensure an intuitive flow between the suite and shared spaces.

This approach is ideal for homeowners in who want a practical, integrated design that meets multi-generational living needs.

Explore the Astoria Mill Floor Plan

Option 2: Oversized Guest Bedroom with Private Bath

For those who prefer a more straightforward solution, the Amberway floor plan offers an oversized guest bedroom with a private bath on the first floor.

Key benefits:

  • Easy accessibility for aging family members or guests.
  • Enhanced privacy with a dedicated bathroom.
  • A simple yet elegant solution for multi-generational families.

This layout is a fantastic choice for homeowners who believe that functionality and comfort are key.

See the Amberway Floor Plan

Chatham County New Home | Ensuite Master Bath

Option 3: Private Living Area with Enhanced Features

For families seeking more privacy and functionality, the Nesbit Ferry floor plan includes the option for a private living area within the suite. This could include a separated living room, and for those who need additional amenities, a small kitchenette is a potential add-on.

Highlights of this approach:

  • A true “suite” feel, perfect for multi-generational living.
  • Separation from main living areas while staying connected to the household.
  • Room for customization to meet unique family needs.

This design is especially appealing to homeowners in the Pittsboro area, where modern design and family-focused living are top priorities.

Discover the Nesbit Ferry Floor Plan

Why Choose a Mother-in-Law Suite in the Pittsboro and Chatham County NC Area?

Living in Pittsboro, Chapel Hill, and the surrounding Chatham County area offers the perfect blend of community charm and modern convenience. Mother-in-law suites make it easier to:

  • Provide a safe, comfortable environment for aging parents or extended family.
  • Create welcoming spaces for guests or adult children.
  • Adapt to changing family dynamics while preserving privacy and independence.

Travars Built Homes specializes in creating customizable floor plans tailored to your family’s needs. Whether you’re modifying an existing design or creating something completely new, we’re here to help make your vision a reality.

Ready to create a home that works for every generation? Contact us to explore your options and start building your dream home in Pittsboro, Chapel Hill, or anywhere in the Chatham County area!

Disclaimer: Floor plans are the property of the architect and are protected by copyright laws. Any modifications are subject to approval by the builder and engineer.  

Essential Decorative Features Homebuyers Really Want in the Great Room

The Great Room has long been the heart of the modern home—a place where families gather, guests are entertained, and comfort meets style. As trends evolve, certain decorative features stand the test of time, while others rise in popularity as homebuyers seek both functionality and visual appeal. The “What Home Buyers Really Want 2024 Edition” study by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) highlights the features that buyers consider essential or desirable in the Great Room.

If you’re building or designing your dream home, here are the top decorative elements that today’s buyers really want to see in the Great Room:

1. Built-In Shelving

Built-in shelving remains a favorite among homeowners who prioritize organization and aesthetics. According to the 2024 study, 72% of respondents said that built-in shelving is essential or desirable—a slight uptick from 71% in 2012. This enduring popularity shows how much buyers appreciate the convenience of customized storage solutions that blend seamlessly with the room’s architecture.

Why Homebuyers Love It:

  • Provides storage without sacrificing floor space.
  • Creates a cohesive, finished look.
  • Perfect for displaying books, photos, and decor items.

2. Wood-Burning Fireplaces

Fireplaces add both warmth and character to the Great Room, and their desirability continues to rise. In 2023, 59% of respondents considered a wood-burning fireplace essential or desirable, compared to just 47% in 2012. This significant increase reflects a renewed interest in cozy, traditional features that bring a sense of nostalgia and comfort.

Why Homebuyers Love It:

  • Offers a natural focal point for the room.
  • Enhances ambiance and coziness.
  • Can provide functional heat during colder months.
Modern Farmhouse | Chapel Hill Custom Home

3. Exposed Ceiling Beams

Exposed beams in the ceiling are no longer limited to rustic or farmhouse styles. In 2023, 51% of respondents said exposed beams were essential or desirable, a major jump from just 31% in 2012. Whether crafted from wood or engineered materials, beams add architectural interest and a timeless design element to any Great Room.

Why Homebuyers Love It:

  • Adds visual drama and height to the room.
  • Complements a variety of home styles, from modern to rustic.
  • Creates a custom, high-end feel.
Chatham County New Homes | Open Concept Living

4. Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans remain the most requested Great Room feature, though their popularity has slightly declined over the years. In 2023, 81% of respondents considered a ceiling fan essential or desirable, compared to 88% in 2012. Despite this drop, ceiling fans are still a key feature for maintaining comfort and airflow while enhancing the room’s style.

Why Homebuyers Love It:

  • Increases energy efficiency by improving air circulation.
  • Provides practical functionality year-round.
  • Available in stylish designs to complement any decor.
Modern Farmhouse | Chapel Hill Custom Home

Bringing It All Together

From built-in shelving to exposed ceiling beams, these Great Room features are more than just decorative—they enhance functionality, add timeless charm, and elevate the overall appeal of the space. Homebuyers in 2024 want rooms that feel comfortable, organized, and visually stunning.

When building your custom home, consider these essential features to create a Great Room that resonates with both style and practicality.

Ready to start building your dream home? Contact us today to learn more about creating a Great Room that you and your family will love for years to come.

Why Build a Custom Home with Travars Built Homes?

At Travars Built Homes, we work with you to design spaces that meet your needs and align with what today’s homebuyers value most. Explore our floor plans and see how Travars Built Homes can help bring your vision to life.

We offer:

  • Customized Floor Plans: Modify layouts to include features like a pet center in your laundry room.
  • Expert Guidance: Work with our design team to choose finishes, materials, and layouts that align with your vision.
  • Attention to Detail: From hidden litter boxes to built-in dog beds, we ensure every detail is crafted with care.
  • Energy-Efficient Solutions: Enjoy a home designed with sustainability and comfort in mind.

Source: National Association of Home Builders, “What Home Buyers Really Want 2024 Edition”