Most of the shops on Drake Street at the time would have had accommodation above the retail premises, as some had a third story as well, if you see photos of them. A lot have changed, but I see no reason why a family could not live "above the shop" in reasonable comfort. Many did.
Some of my family caused me some confusion at one time, as there seemed to be a trend for them to go back to their Mum for the birth of the first child especially, which meant until I realised that, I was a bit perplexed why the child was born in a different county to where the family lived.
In one case it wasn't made easier by Mum having re-married - so the surname of Mum was different from the maiden name of daughter. Always think round the problem - it often seems so obvious when you've actually solved it!
I'm sure you'll solve it. Good luck.