Multigenerational homes
Study space Materials and Finishes for Multigenerational homes
Select materials by where they will be installed, how they are cleaned and what can be repaired when one part wears.
Explore the ideas
Compare the options
- Set the brief
- Mark high-touch, wet and impact-prone surfaces separately before picking finishes.
- Compare
- Ask suppliers for care instructions, repair options and a full sample with exposed edges and joints.
- Before buying
- Price installation, replaceable pieces and long-term maintenance alongside the initial material cost.
Worked example
Imagine a study table used for glue, markers and frequent wiping, where a delicate finish is attractive but already shows marks on the sample.
Test cleaning and stain behavior on a spare sample using the household's normal products. Compare a repairable or replaceable work surface and protect its edges, then choose based on upkeep the family can sustain.
How to test it
Put the sample beside its adjoining materials and test the agreed cleaning method on a spare piece.
Apply it to this space
- Layout
- Provide separate work surfaces or staggered orientations to limit distraction and screen visibility.
- Detail
- Use adjustable task lights, closed supply storage and durable writable surfaces.
- Trade-off
- A shared study encourages help but can make focused work harder.
- Test homework and reading at once
- Check power, chair fit and lighting
The Elixir portfolio
Details worth a closer look
