Tips for designing a multi-generational kitchen

Multi-generational living is on the rise. Students are returning home from college to spend a few years at home to save money, while grandparents are moving in with their adult children as well. Having three generations in the home means that you may have to adjust the design of each room to be accommodating to all. The kitchen is the heart of the home, and is becoming more than just a room to prepare and cook food. It’s a space for people to relax, eat and entertain guests. In order to design a functional and stylish kitchen that supports multi-generational living, keep these tips in mind:

Countertops of varied heights
Because there are a few generations living under one roof, not everyone is going to be the same height. Therefore, kitchens may need to have countertops of multiple sizes. This way, everyone will be able to prep and cook food with ease. Lower countertops can be accessible by wheelchair, while higher counters will be a great workspace for teens and adults.

Create multiple work areas
Instead of just having one prep area in your kitchen, install a few different spaces for people to slice, dice and cook food. This way, not everyone will be crowded into one area.

Install wide walkways
There should be wide walkways in the kitchen where everyone can comfortably walk around without feeling crowded. Wide passages also make room for wheelchairs and walkers to keep the kitchen comfortable and accessible. There should be at least 40 inches of clearance space all around the kitchen island. This helps even small kitchens feel open and airy rather than cramped.

Consider roll-out shelving
Being able to easily pull out cabinets makes it easier for small children to locate dishes so they can set the table and be able to help out around the kitchen. Roll-out shelving is also much simpler to use for older generations, who may have only a limited range of motion.

Use two sinks
One sink often isn’t enough if you constantly have people running in and out of the kitchen. Consider installing a basin on the kitchen island and another on a countertop. Farmhouse sinks are perfect for a vintage kitchen design as well as multi-generational living because of their deep basin and wide base. They easily accommodate big pots and pans and lots of dishes, which tend to pile up with a big family. Farmhouse sinks also don’t require users to lean over as much as traditional basins when washing dishes.