The way we live is evolving, and our homes need to keep pace. One significant shift we’re seeing is the rise of multi-generational households. Whether it’s adult children returning home, grandparents moving in, or families choosing to live together for mutual support, this trend is reshaping the demands placed on our living spaces.
Design for multi-generational living means considering the needs and abilities of everyone sharing the home. It requires a more holistic and thoughtful approach, blending style with functionality and future-proofing. This doesn’t mean our homes need to look like clinical environments. In fact, the beauty of modern design is its ability to integrate accessibility, functionality, and style seamlessly.
We’ve got some useful design tips to create spaces that everyone in the home will enjoy for years to come.
Think Universal Design
Leading interior designers are embracing Universal Design principles in their projects to ensure spaces are usable by people of all ages and abilities. Far from making these spaces feel clinical, Universal Design principles can make homes feel more open and accessible. Incorporating architectural features like wider doorways and hallways, adding bath spaces with zero-entry showers, and kitchens with varying height countertops are just some of the choices that can enable people to stay in their homes as they age. Other subtle features, like choosing lever-style door handles over traditional doorknobs and steering clients toward “ADA-friendly” cabinetry pull designs that are easier to manipulate for people with limited dexterity, go a long way to improving accessibility.
Get Smart
There are a wide range of smart devices for the home that are activated by sensing movement or by voice commands. Touchless faucets allow users to control the flow and temperature of water using simple hand motions or voice control. Smart speakers like Amazon Alexa or Google Home can act as a hub for devices connected to the internet. This makes it easy to manage a wide range of devices, including home appliances, coffee makers, lighting, heating, and cooling systems.
Creating Harmony in Shared Spaces
Multi-generational living also highlights the need for well-organized and adaptable spaces. Keeping items neatly stored but within easy reach contributes to quality of life, and studies have shown that having less visual clutter promotes a sense of wellbeing for everyone using the space.
Cabinet and drawer organizers keep essentials organized and out of sight. One of the latest trends in bath vanity organization is drawers and base cabinets that incorporate electrical outlets. Hardware Resources offers a Powered Vanity Drawer and a “No Wiggle” Powered Vanity Pullout designed to manage powered hair styling appliances. The patented design of the Powered Vanity Drawer and “No Wiggle” Powered Vanity Pullout features an automatic shut-off feature that cuts power to appliances when the drawer is closed, eliminating the concern of heated hot tools like straighteners being left on when no one is home.
Finding Common Ground Through Design
Beyond functionality, design in multi-generational homes needs to foster a sense of harmony and cater to different tastes. Incorporating natural accents can create a calming and universally appealing environment. A natural teak shower bench adds both style and function, while plants and wicker baskets bring a touch of tranquility that can be appreciated by everyone.
Ultimately, the rise of multi-generational households presents an exciting challenge and opportunity for interior designers. It requires us to move beyond purely aesthetic considerations and embrace a more empathetic and forward-thinking approach. By focusing on accessibility, smart organization, and universally appealing design elements, designers can create homes that not only look beautiful but also support the diverse needs and well-being of every generation living under one roof.