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Exploring Accessible Multigenerational Kitchen Design

5 min read
22nd January 2025
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Exploring Multigenerational Kitchen Design Blog | Featured Image

The kitchen has evolved into more than just a space for cooking; as our households become increasingly diverse, the need for multigenerational and accessible kitchen design is more important than ever.

Delve into the principles of designing kitchens that cater to all ages and abilities with Uform’s Showroom Designer Jack Pullan, ensuring that everyone—from young children to elderly relatives—feels welcome and comfortable. In this Q&A, we’ll explore innovative layouts, user-friendly features, and practical tips that not only enhance functionality but also promote inclusivity.

In most cases multigenerational/accessible design exists on a sliding scale, depending on the family and their needs. Does this reflect your experience/research?

I agree, multigenerational/accessible design can exist on a sliding scale depending on the specific needs and preferences of the family. The design considerations may vary based on factors such as the number of generations living together, individual mobility requirements, and the overall lifestyle of the family members. Tailoring the design to accommodate the diverse needs of different family members is essential in creating a comfortable and functional living space for everyone, rather than sticking to common solutions.

Exploring Multigenerational Kitchen Design Arrington Shell and Slate Blue

Arrington – Shell and Slate Blue

How should retailers determine what level of accessibility is necessary?

Retailers can determine the necessary level of accessibility by conducting thorough assessments of their customer’s physical spaces and considering the diverse needs of the family from the outset. A kitchen isn’t something that can be changed every year, so there needs be a certain element of futureproofing involved, considering all scenarios but not losing sight of what is needed.

How should designers and retailers think about approaching initial conversations around accessible design and futureproofing?

When approaching initial conversations around accessible design and futureproofing, designers and retailers should actively listen to the homeowner’s ideas while prioritising empathy, open-mindedness and inclusivity. It’s important to create a safe and respectful environment where individuals with diverse needs feel comfortable sharing their experiences and providing input.

Exploring Multigenerational Kitchen Design Blog | Belgravia - Reed Green and Cannon Black

Belgravia – Reed Green and Cannon Black

What is the right language to use?

When it comes to multigenerational/accessible kitchen design it’s important to be respectful and inclusive with every homeowner, regardless of circumstances. Kitchen design is about providing the homeowner with a tailored solution that’s specific to their family’s needs for everyday living.

Overall, the goal is to communicate in a way that recognises and respects the dignity and individuality of each person, while being mindful of the impact of language on perceptions and attitudes towards accessibility and inclusion.

What are the key elements to consider when creating a kitchen for neurodivergent needs?

As a company that manufactures and supplies a range of products to cater all types of homes of all backgrounds, we appreciate that everyone is going to have their own unique needs when it comes to kitchen design. What really matters is that the kitchen meets the needs of the homeowner not only in terms of aesthetics but also takes into consideration the functional and practical needs of the family.

Having a thoughtfully designed kitchen can support comfort, independence, and efficiency for neurodivergent individuals who each have their own unique requirements. The design process might involve creating calming areas by using effective storage solutions to avoid clutter and keep spaces more organised for specific tasks. Another design factor could be the use of non-intrusive lighting and considering the acoustics of a space with quieter appliances to minimise sensory overload.

Exploring Multigenerational Kitchen Design Blog | Ferro - Oxidized Copper and Rezana - Espresso Oak

Ferro – Oxidized Copper and Rezana – Espresso Oak

What are the key things that retailers need to consider when planning a kitchen for a multigenerational home?

When planning a kitchen for a multigenerational home, retailers need to consider several key aspects including accessibility, safety, flexibility, visibility and ergonomics, to ensure the space is functional and accommodating for individuals of different ages and abilities.

This may involve considering the placement of appliances, the height of countertops/storage as well as the design of handles and hardware to optimise comfort and usability.

What types of appliances should be considered in terms of their placement, and what technologies can help make operation easier?

When considering the kinds of appliances and their placement in a kitchen for a multigenerational home, it’s important to prioritise ease of use and accessibility. Appliances that feature user-friendly interfaces, intuitive controls, and adaptive technologies can significantly enhance the kitchen experience for individuals of all ages and abilities.

Exploring Multigenerational Kitchen Design Blog | Aldana - Graphite and Light Grey

Aldana – Graphite and Light Grey

How should the layout and ergonomics of a kitchen be considered when designing it for wheelchair access?

When designing for wheelchair access, several key considerations come into play to ensure that a space is both accessible and functional. Both open-plan layouts and zoning can be effective, depending on the specific needs of the individuals. Open-plan layouts can provide ample space for manoeuvring a wheelchair, while zoning can create distinct areas with designated functions, catering to the diverse activities and preferences of the household members.

Designing countertops and surfaces at varying heights to accommodate individuals who may be seated in a wheelchair is important. This can involve installing lower countertops for ease of use and providing knee space beneath sinks and cooktops. By integrating these design considerations, retailers can create living spaces that are not only accessible but also comfortable and accommodating for individuals using wheelchairs.

What are some ways to design a kitchen that suits everyone’s needs, especially regarding seating and worktops?

Incorporating adjustable or varied-height surfaces, such as countertops and tables, can accommodate individuals who are seated or have varying height requirements. This flexibility allows for easier reach and use of different areas within the kitchen.

Selecting sinks with shallow and wide basins can make them more accessible for individuals using wheelchairs. Additionally, lever-style or touchless taps can be easier to operate for individuals with limited dexterity or strength, providing a more inclusive experience for all users.

Exploring Multigenerational Kitchen Design Blog | Wakefield - Cardamom and Light Oak

Wakefield – Cardamom and Light Oak

What practical elements should be considered when thinking about storage?

When designing a kitchen for multigenerational use, it’s important to consider storage height and incorporate practical elements that enhance accessibility and usability for all users.

Integrating pull-out or pull-down storage solutions, such as drawers and shelves, makes it easier to access items stored in lower or higher cabinets without the need for excessive reaching or bending. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations.

Providing a mix of storage options, including deep drawers, pull-out pantry shelves, and larders with adjustable shelving, accommodates different preferences and needs. This allows for efficient organisation and easy access to kitchen essentials for all users.

All 25 of our door styles can be tailored for multigenerational/accessible kitchen design. Explore our comprehensive door collection here and our Vauth-Sagel storage solutions here.

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