If you live in a home with a large or extended family, especially one that includes three or four generations, it can be a challenge to make your home design work for everyone! The needs of young children, teens, adults and older people can vary drastically — especially when you consider various preferences, abilities and needs for privacy and safety. But it is possible to create a home that’s inclusive for everyone.
Today we’re covering off simple ways you can make your home more functional and comfortable. Regardless of who lives in your home, accessible design is always a good idea. Keep on reading for our guide to making your home more comfortable and safe for every member of the family.
Related article: How to organise your garage and make room for more
Related article: 10 tips for updating your kitchen: Best cosmetic kitchen upgrades
1. Prioritise accessibility
When trying to create an inclusive home design, accessibility should be top of mind. This doesn’t just mean making sure your home is specifically suitable for elderly family members, babies or people with disabilities. But rather ensuring that everyone benefits from a space that is easy to navigate. For example, open-plan living areas that allow for easy movement between rooms, wider doorways, and low-threshold entrances. Additionally, handrails in the bathroom and for all stairs (not just where is required to meet building code) can improve accessibility. Even better would be to provide step-free access by way of ramps or lifts.
Flooring is also an important consideration. It’s a good idea to select non-slip flooring (ie flooring with a high slip rating) and flooring that is not too hard to offer protection should you fall. Flooring like vinyl, laminate, or hardwood is easy to clean and more accommodating for those who may use a walker, wheelchair, or other mobility devices.
For family members with more specific needs, it is a good idea to check out places like specialist disability accommodation by United For Care for inspiration. This type of accommodation is designed with accessibility in mind. It offers features like accessible bathrooms, level flooring, and clear pathways that make living in and moving around the home much easier for those with mobility issues.
2. Create flexible spaces
All generations of a family have different needs and these needs change over time. So, it’s a wise design move to create living spaces that offer good flexibility. Ideally, you should try and create flexible spaces that can serve multiple purposes, such as an office that can convert into a guest bedroom or a playroom that evolves into a teenage retreat. A great way to facilitate this is to include modular furniture, movable storage units, and adjustable shelving in your rooms, as they can easily be adapted to serve different purposes.
Additionally, fold-away desks are a good solution for school-aged children. At the same time, open shelving units allow them to easily store and retrieve their toys, yet can also display decorative items should you decide to use the room for another purpose.
3. Pick materials that are easy to clean and durable
As kids and pets can be particularly unforgiving on furniture and flooring, you’d be smart to choose materials that can withstand the vigour they will put them through. It’s also a good idea to opt for stain-resistant fabrics and durable finishes that will stand the test of time.
Fingerprints are another important consideration if you have toddlers or young children! Make life easier for yourself by selecting cabinetry and finishes that don’t show fingerprints and dirt as easily. Doing this will make your home look tidier while minimising cleaning time.
4. Create areas for different age groups
Creating a home that works for everyone isn’t just about accessibility — it’s also about wellbeing. Having space to unwind, relax and play in. Where possible, try to incorporate separate spaces for children, grandparents and, of course, you as parents, where you can switch off and have some time to yourself.
A seating nook can make use of an empty corner and offer comfort for all, while a man cave is the ultimate men’s retreat. If your home isn’t big enough to do this, create one room which you can take turns using for this purpose.
5. Safeguard your home
Everyone deserves to be safe in their homes. But while you might take precautions to prevent the threat of burglary and home invasion, there are plenty of things you can do inside the property to make it safer for your family.
For babies and young children, add childproofing elements like corner protectors, safety gates, and secure cabinets. If you have elderly parents, replacing door knobs with lever handles can make it easier for those with arthritis to use doors and cabinets independently. We mentioned non-slip flooring earlier and if this isn’t possible, simply using non-slip mats in high-traffic areas can make your home safer. Adjustable lighting and motion-activated lights is also beneficial while improving security.
6. Introduce technology
Recent developments in smart home technology have been a real game-changer for family homes, as they enable everyone to enjoy more convenience and a greater sense of liveability.
Voice-activated lighting, doors and blinds, temperature controls, and smart appliances allow people of all ages to better control their environment.
By incorporating these design solutions, you can create a home that is safe, comfortable, and accessible for people of all ages and mobility levels. Have you made any adjustments to your home to make it accommodate others who live there? Tell us about it in the comments!
