A growing trend of multigenerational living arrangements is on the rise partly due to the lack and cost of housing. If you find yourself in this type of arrangement, it's essential to create spaces that accommodate the needs and preferences of different generations. The key is involvement, communication, and lots of love and patience.
Essential Key Elements To Consider:
Flexible Floor Plans:
Flexible floor plans that accommodate changing needs and varying privacy requirements should be on the list. Consider movable partitions or separate wings/zones within the home so everyone has some much-needed privacy.
Universal Design Principles:
Universal design in interior design refers to a design approach that aims to create spaces that are accessible, functional, and inclusive for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. The concept of universal design originated in architecture but has since been adopted in various disciplines, including interior design. Consider Univeral Design in all home areas, from living rooms to bedrooms and bathrooms.
Multi-Functional Spaces:
Create spaces that serve multiple purposes to accommodate the diverse needs of the household. Consider convertible furniture,
such as sofa beds or dining tables, that can extend to provide flexibility.
Also, consider how you can double the purpose of guest rooms or playrooms that can transform into study areas.
Privacy and Personalization:
You need to address the importance of individual privacy and personalization early in the decision-making process of this type of living arrangement.
Think of ways to create private retreats within the home, such as dedicated bedrooms or cozy reading nooks. And allow all the residents to be involved in the decor and design elements.
Shared Living Spaces:
Creating spaces in shared living areas encourages interaction and bonding between different generations. This is one of the most significant benefits of intergenerational living. Keep in mind comfortable seating arrangements, ample storage, and entertainment options. For elders, think of safety too, such as keeping trip hazards and other elements in the design top of mind.
Communication and Collaboration:
It goes without saying that open communication and collaboration is a significant aspect of the design process for multigenerational living. Keep everyone involved at some level with the decision-making and include all the family members' input.
If you have multigenerational living needs, I would love to help you and your family.
You can reach me at amanda@newenglandhomeandinteriors.com
Comments