To build a kitchen, there’s a lot more than choosing a colour scheme. You can also craft a kitchen that’s completely tailored to your needs and comfort. For instance, elderly people would find it difficult to work in a kitchen where there’s a lot of bending down or reaching up.
We spent a lot of time researching what it takes to build a kitchen that suits every family and added some smart touches to make cooking effortless for the elderly. Take a look at the differences between a kitchen for an elderly person and a young adult in the image below. Everything is designed in a way to make your kitchen time easier and hassle-free. There’s a lot you can do when it comes to storage needs, countertop selection, cabinet handles and the works.
Let’s dig a little deeper into the differences between a kitchen for elderly and young adults.
Kitchen Design for Elderly vs Young Adults #1: Type of Storage
Storage has always been a priority in Indian kitchens. From smart corner units to easy pull-out wicker baskets, there’s a lot of options in the market. Click here to read about kitchen storage ideas.
For the seniors: Our designers recommend base cabinets with long drawers for older people. “Don’t underestimate the traditional drawer. These are great if you are looking for easy and quick access without stretching,” explains Marita Manavalan, a Bengaluru-based Livspace Interior Designer. You could have a base unit with a set of three drawers. The first drawer can be used as a cutlery tray, the second holds cups and bowls and the last drawer is for your plate rack and pans.
For young chefs: “Tall units are definitely a winner with younger folks. These efficient grocery hoarders can store all your essentials without clutter,” says Megha Arora, Livspace Senior Category Manager of Kitchens & Wardrobes. You can have intriguing additions as well, like soft and warm lighting within tall units. For electrical appliances, our designers suggest adding a roller shutter to tuck away your essentials. This also keeps your worktops clutter-free.
Kitchen Design for Elderly vs Young Adults #2: Cabinet Styles
There’s a lot you can do with cabinets as well. While older people would feel traditional cabinets are the way to go, younger adults would like to try different things.
For the seniors: Long wall cabinets and open shelves are very elder-friendly. Long wall cabinets are ideal for elderly people. They don’t have to strain or stretch their arms a lot while reaching out for things. A tall unit with built-in microwave should be kept at the counter level or slightly below for ease of access.
For young chefs: Traditional kitchens have upper and lower cabinets. But you can always opt out of wall cabinets if you aren’t a heavy-duty kitchen user. Not to mention, it’s also easy on the eyes. You could have a built-in microwave in the base cabinet. In addition, choose closed over open shelves to offer a seamless and smooth look.
Kitchen Design for Elderly vs Young Adults #3: Handles
Handles deserve special mention. While most of us tend to overlook these vital parts of our kitchen, these really can improve the overlook look and function.
For the seniors: Designers recommend traditional cabinet pull outs for elderly people. These humble fittings can easily help with getting a good grip on drawers and cabinets. Choose D-shaped handles and avoid round knobs for handles.
For young chefs: While you can always fall back on D-shaped handles for efficiency, profile profile groove handles are trendy now. Especially if you are after a seamless and smooth kitchen.
Kitchen Design for Elderly vs Young Adults #4: Countertop
For the seniors: Our designers recommend granite countertops. These are easy to maintain, economical, hassle-free and looks beautiful in any kitchen. No doubt, that’s why Indian homes have been using granite for years! In addition, choose rounded edges instead of sharp ends to prevent injury.
For young chefs: Depending on your personal style, you have plenty of options. Quartz, Kalinga stone and Corian make excellent options in a modern kitchen. Here are the different types that are popular and trendy now.
Kitchen Design for Elderly vs Young Adults #5: Flooring
Did you know one study found out 11% of falls at home happen in the kitchen? That’s why the right flooring can make all the difference.
For the seniors: Designers always recommend anti-skid flooring for older folks. Thanks to its texture, wooden or vinyl flooring are excellent options.
For young chefs: Something about vitrified or marble flooring always makes your kitchen look seamless and modern. If you are looking for something intriguing, designers suggest Moroccan tiles for the kitchen floor.
Kitchen Design for Elderly vs Young Adults #6: Lights
A well-lit setting is always beneficial for any type of kitchen, regardless of user. But certain lights make the cut when it comes to an elderly-friendly kitchen.
For the seniors: Profile light under wall cabinets are amazing when working in the kitchen. It goes without saying, light switches need to placed within arm-length of the entrance.
For younger chefs: If you are looking for fancy options, you could have a mix of lights. Our designers suggest recessed lights in the ceiling or spotlights between wooden rafters (for ambience enthusiasts) and pendant lights wherever needed.
Kitchen Design for Elderly vs Young Adults #7: Colours
The right colour can make a lot of difference in the kitchen. From peppy kitchens to soothing ones, there’s a colour for every style of kitchen.
For the seniors: Neutral colours, traditionally favourite wooden tones, or pastel hues can help create a soothing ambience in the kitchen.
For younger chefs: Want a vibrant kitchen? Our designers suggest yellow or red to make an impact. Or do you feel contrast combinations make a statement, you can choose yellow and blue. Here are 8 Colour Schemes for Indian Kitchens.
If you liked reading about kitchen design for elderly and young adults, take a look at kitchen trends for 2019.
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How can Livspace help you?
With Livspace, you have access to a team of experienced and talented designers. They can work with you to create a customized and personalized design plan that meets your unique style, preferences, and budget. The platform offers a range of services, including design consultations, 3D rendering, project management, and installation. You can also find the perfect pieces for your home by browsing through products on the platform’s online store.
Additionally, Livspace’s technology-driven approach allows for efficient communication and collaboration. Thereby, ensuring that your design vision is brought to life with precision and care. Whether you’re looking to renovate your existing home or design a new one, Livspace can help you create a beautiful and functional space that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.
Book an online consultation with Livspace today. To know how our customers feel about working with us, check out these Livspace reviews for more details!
Disclaimer: All contents of the story are specific to the time of publication. Mentions of costs, budget, materials, finishes, and products from the Livspace catalogue can vary with reference to current rates. Talk to our designer for more details on pricing and availability.
