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Architects answer the call of the child
A YORKSHIRE firm of architects is responding to the growing trend of so-called boomerang children by launching a new arm of its business aimed specifically at helping parents to cope with this relatively recent phenomenon.
Generation Living, developed by York-based PRA Architects, specialises in remodelling and improving living spaces to meet the changing circumstances and requirements of modern family life.
Director Philip Rickinson said: "There are many reasons people may want to change the living arrangements in their homes; for example, to accommodate elderly parents or create a space for home working. However, the biggest trend we have identified is that of children returning to live with their parents after they have already left home once – the so-called boomerang generation.
"Many of them have been to university and then found themselves without work or unable to afford a home of their own in the current economic climate, so they are obliged to return to living with their parents.
"Families in this situation are realising that it's important for everyone to have their own private area within the home."
Mr Rickinson believes that the trend is on the rise and seems to be more prevalent in the North of the UK than in the South.
A recent survey by the Abbey claimed that more than a million people aged between 18 and 24 returned to live with their parents or postponed plans to move out last year.
But the phenomenon is not limited to returning students. The Abbey's research also suggested that a further million adults, aged between 25 and 44, have also moved back into the family home as a direct result of the economic downturn.
Mr Rickinson added: "Changing circumstances such as these create the need for a new dynamic within the family home, but moving to a bigger property to accommodate this is not always desirable or even possible."
Generation Living currently has three recently-commissioned projects under construction, including a studio annexe next to an existing house.
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Weather for Yorkshire
Wednesday 23 May 2012
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