Multigenerational homes

Entry Storage Design for Multigenerational homes

Plan storage around frequency of use and the route between use and return. Measure the actual items, including handles and cases.

Explore the ideas
Living room seating group with a clear approach from the front of the room
Arrival inspiration: keep the first route into the room open.

Plan in this order

  1. Sort items into daily, occasional and surplus stock, then measure each group's largest pieces.
  2. Place daily items at the point of use and reserve a separate area for overflow or refills.
  3. Choose shelf spans, pull-outs and closures only after checking how items are loaded and removed.
Worked example

Several household members leave daily footwear and bags beside a shared apartment entry.

Assign each person a labeled open cubby for daily items and reserve closed storage for occasional footwear. Check the largest pair and bag fit without protruding into the entry path.

How to test it

Put the largest item into a mock-up and remove it with the adjacent doors or work surfaces in use.

Apply it to this space
Layout
Assign each household member a defined hook or basket while protecting the central passage.
Detail
Use a sturdy seat, washable floor and a visible key landing point.
Trade-off
Individual stations aid order but need wall length and routine upkeep.
  • Simulate everyone arriving together
  • Check access with stored shoes and bags
Entry corridor leading toward a dining area beside a glass-front cabinet
Entry inspiration: a clear approach and shallow landing storage.

The Elixir portfolio

Details worth a closer look

Photographs for design inspiration
Wood display partition between an entry-side passage and living room
Entry inspiration: a permeable divider that softens direct sightlines.
Living area with a glass partition beside a television wall
Entry inspiration: glazed separation that preserves borrowed light.

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