Johnny Grey | INTERVIEW
‘The industry must start thinking seriously about multigenerational design’
Q & A
Q. You’ve become an advocate for multigenerational living. What is it about this field of design that really interests you? A. I’ve been working very closely with Professor Peter Gore – from the National Innovation Centre for Ageing (NICA) at Newcastle University – and accessible kitchen designer Adam Thomas, over the years. It started with a conversation about how we change the language around disability and ageing and how we then
communicate that
through design and create solutions that change lives. The thought being that if you use the phrase multigenerational and you stop using the word
April 2020 ·
disability, you’re almost enabling people to see themselves in a positive light.
Ending the stigma is crucial and if we don’t get the language right, we can’t do what we want with design and the result of our discussions is the term ‘multigenerational’.
Q. So what does multigenerational mean? A. It means something that is designed to meet the needs of the ageing population and can be used comfortably by people of any age and ability. For example, as you get older you shrink, and obviously, children also have height restrictions and there is a huge variation in people’s flexed elbow heights. So, one of the key considerations in a multigenerational kitchen is having
Kitchen design icon Johnny Grey explains the principles of multigenerational space planning and why this growing sector should no longer be overlooked
worksurfaces that suit everyone’s needs. One of the very first kitchens I ever designed actually featured worksurfaces at 700mm to 750mm high. These were designed so that children could comfortably use the surfaces but, there was also enough space that you could also get a wheelchair underneath. That’s a great example of multigenerational design – a space that considers the needs of everyone who may use it.
Q. Why does the KBB industry need to be more aware about this sector and the need for a different approach to design? A. People are living longer and that is, therefore, creating a demand for kitchens that appeal to, and meet the needs of, that audience. Because of
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