3 Inspiring Mixed-use Homes

I've dreamt about having a standalone studio on my property someday that will function as both a design studio (upstairs) and a homeschooling classroom on the ground level. However, lately, I've been thinking about mixed-use spaces and homes from an entirely new perspective after watching the Apple TV+ series titled “Home.” 

It's fascinating when considering taking the tried and true shop-in-the-front and flat up top concept to a new level where it also begins to benefit the environment, multigenerational living, and longevity. 

In this journal entry I'm highlighting three inspiring mixed use and multi-purpose homes from the Apple TV+ series titled “Home.” I'm late to the party as I’m watching season 2 which aired in 2022, however it is so much fun to watch! It's a slower pace than most interior design and architecture shows that I’ve seen, but I like it because it allows for a submergence into the details. I love the cinematography, photography, and I really enjoy the storytelling aspect. Getting to understand the intention behind why the homeowners chose to (a) build in the first place but also (b) design it the way they did was a truly inspiring journey. It’s also really fun to witness all the different types of personalities behind the projects and careers ranging across several different creative Industries. 

You'll read more about my favorites below but some of the people who designed these incredible homes are sculptors, architects, and farmers to name a few. I hope that this entry sparks conversation as you consider the options around how to best afford abundant, and full living while staying connected to everything that matters most.

MEXICO CITY: Casa de Carla y Pedro S2, E2 
This ultra modern home gets its warmth from the family’s bond over creative exploration and commitment to sustaining ancient Mexican artisanal techniques. As they mentioned, having a shop or studio in the front of the home is not new, especially in Mexico City, however what sets them apart is that not only do the homeowners each have their own creative studios in the home (Wife is a Fashion Designer, and Husband is a Sculptor), they’ve also opened a portion of their home to the public by way of a public library. Motivated by the lack of access to a wider range of books in the city, the family has amassed a collection so large that it has steadily increased in popularity and functionality. What is really special is as their oldest child still figures out what her creative lane will be, she credits the library as being a huge help in broadening her perspective around what is possible. 


AMSTERDAM: 3 Generation House S2, E6  
My family is very important to me, and so I’m consistently planning ways that I can build a home, or multiple smaller dwellings, on one property where we can be close enough to enjoy our time together, while also maintaining the privacy needed to live harmoniously. The Husband, who is an architect, nailed the design of his home that currently functions as two separate apartments for his family and his in-laws. In addition, he future proofed the architecture in order to easily accommodate a third and fourth apartment once the children get of age, if they choose to stay of course. I also appreciated the transparency around funding the project as a family, and how the grandpa set boundaries around his non-negotiables. 


AUSTRALIA: Longhouse S2, E7 
The Longhouse had me looking up the cost of longhouses almost immediately. This spectacular creation boasts a house and various other spaces within another house taking the phrase “under one roof” to a whole new level. Determined to nurture a life of continued learning, this couple built a sustainable oasis that combines their love of farming and gastronomy. While one partner gets their dream of running a farm, the other lives their dream of programming and operating a cooking school. Their priorities in life were made even clearer when sharing how their home has the smallest footprint of all the structures within Longhouse, and get this, there is even an Airbnb. 

Shall we go?

Michelle

Subscribe to our newsletter and get the next journal entry sent directly to your inbox. Sign Up Here

Next
Next

3 Bedroom Design Tips that will Increase Your Home Frequency