As more South African families embrace multigenerational living, our homes need to evolve to meet the needs of all ages—without compromising comfort, safety, or style.
Whether you’re living with ageing parents, grandparents, or raising children under one roof, building a home that’s accessible, attractive, and safe for everyone is essential.
However, this doesn’t mean that you have to ditch the designs to your dream house—Creating a home that works for everyone doesn’t have to require sacrificing space or style.
With thoughtful planning, you can strike the perfect balance between functionality and flair, creating a safe space for seniors, children, and everyone in between.
Here’s how to make your multigenerational home safer in South Africa—without sacrificing the space or style you love.
7 Practical Tips for Making Your Multigenerational Home Safer and More Accessible in South Africa
1. Design With Safety in Mind—Start from the Ground Up
When creating a home for multiple generations, safety for seniors and young children should be a key priority—not something added later. But that doesn’t mean your home has to look clinical or outdated.
Solution: Install a stairlift, such as a custom-fit option from Acorn Stairlifts South Africa. These stairlifts are sleek, modern, and tailor-made to fit your staircase—blending effortlessly with your home’s design while making stairs safer for older family members and those with limited mobility.
Plus, no drilling or plastering is necessary. This means that the stairlift installation process is stress and mess-free, and every stairlift is customised to fit flawlessly to your specific staircase.
You’ll never have to worry about making messy modifications to your home that compromise its style or structure. Acorn stairlifts allow you to enjoy full access to the home you love, leaving it just the way you like it.
2. Opt for Open-Plan Living to Improve Accessibility
An open layout makes it easier for people of all ages to move around freely. It reduces tripping hazards and helps family members keep an eye on one another.
Style Tip: Use bookshelves, plants, or foldable screens to separate spaces without blocking natural light or movement.
3. Choose Safe Flooring That Still Looks Stylish
Falls are one of the most common household injuries for older adults—but you don’t need to compromise on décor to reduce risks.
Safe and Stylish Flooring Options:
- Non-slip tiles for bathrooms and kitchens
- Low-pile carpets with anti-slip backings
- Vinyl flooring with grip and durability
These options help make your home safer while offering a wide range of finishes to match your preferred style.
4. Use Better Lighting to Prevent Falls
Good lighting is crucial, especially for seniors moving around at night. The right lighting setup can prevent trips and falls—and enhance your home’s atmosphere.
Lighting Tips:
- Layer your lighting with ceiling, wall, and floor lights
- Use motion-activated night lights in hallways, staircases, and bathrooms
- Choose brighter LED bulbs in high-use areas like the kitchen or lounge
Improved lighting not only boosts safety—it also elevates the overall look and feel of your space.
5. Follow Universal Design Principles for All Ages
Universal design makes your home more accessible for everyone—whether it’s a grandparent with limited mobility or a toddler just learning to walk.
Upgrade Ideas:
- Install grab rails that double as towel holders
- Replace steps with ramps or no-step entries
- Use pull-out drawers in kitchens and bedrooms for easy access
These additions are practical, subtle, and support independence for all family members.
6. Maximise Space with Multi-Use, Modern Furniture
Every square metre counts in a multigenerational home, so it’s smart to choose furniture that’s functional and stylish.
Examples:
- Ottomans with hidden storage
- Sleeper couches for guests
- Folding desks and extendable tables
These versatile pieces allow you to make the most of your space without losing your home’s personality.
7. Create Emotional Comfort Alongside Physical Safety
A truly safe home isn’t just about railings and ramps—it’s about how it feels to live there. Prioritise emotional well-being by fostering open communication and mutual respect.
Try This: Hold regular family meetings to discuss everyone’s needs—young and old. Encourage open conversations around comfort, responsibilities, and shared spaces.
Final Thoughts: Build a Home That Works for Everyone
Living in a multigenerational home offers countless benefits—deeper family connections, shared wisdom, and added peace of mind. By combining smart design with safe, stylish choices, you can create a home where every generation feels secure and supported.
With Acorn Stairlifts South Africa, you don’t have to choose between safety and style. Our expertly crafted stairlifts are designed to meet your needs, fit your home, and restore confidence to those who need it.
Because a home that works for everyone is a home where everyone can thrive.
Get Your Free, No-Obligation Stairlift Quote Today
Do you or a loved one struggle to use the stairs or find yourselves avoiding them altogether?
Well, great news! An Acorn stairlift will help you rise above these obstacles, granting you full access to the home you love in one seamless, sweeping motion.
Acorn Stairlifts South Africa strives to lift your life so that you will never have to sacrifice the things you love because of mobility issues.
Don’t miss out on giving your life a lift—Take it to the next level by enjoying full freedom in your home and reclaiming your independence.
Click here to claim your free, no-obligation quote and learn how you can take the first step towards reaching new heights in your life today.
