Multigenerational living is becoming less of an exception and more of a sought-after feature in today’s homes. Whether driven by economic shifts, caregiving needs, or life transitions, families are asking their spaces to work harder, smarter, and longer.

Closets and storage play a critical role in how these households function day to day. When designed thoughtfully, they don’t just store belongings—they create flexibility, dignity, and calm during periods of change.

For this issue, I invited two fellow ACSP board members—Allanna Bell and Kate Bernyk—to share how they’re approaching multigenerational design from both professional and personal perspectives. Their insights reflect where our industry shines strong —toward adaptable, human-centered solutions that grow with the people who use them.

Jenna: Why is multigenerational living showing up more frequently in your design conversations—and how is it changing the way closets are being designed?

Kate: When people hear “multigenerational living,” they often make assumptions about culture or background. In reality, households are combining for many reasons—economic shifts, caregiving needs, career changes, and life resets like divorce. I’m living this firsthand.

What I’ve learned is that thoughtful storage design doesn’t just make these transitions possible—it makes them peaceful. Closets become tools for stability when everything else feels in flux.

Allanna: Modern homes have to meet increasingly diverse needs, and closets play a vital role in that. As families evolve and expand, storage solutions must adapt to accommodate these changes.

Jenna: When you know a household’s needs will evolve, what design strategies do you recommend to help a closet stay functional over time?

Allanna: I design every closet with the future in mind. Adjustable shelving, flat-front drawers, and flexible hanging spaces allow the closet to change without being rebuilt.

A triple hang for kids can easily become a double hang or long hang as they grow. Nothing has to be torn out—just adjusted. That flexibility keeps the space functional for years.

Kate: From a value standpoint, flexibility is the true luxury. Clients aren’t just investing in storage—they’re investing in options. When this chapter ends, the space can adapt again without starting over.

Jenna: How do you design one space to work for multiple generations without it feeling cluttered?

Allanna: Vertical planning is key. Upper shelves are great for seasonal items and keepsakes, while lower zones stay accessible for kids. Middle sections work well for adults. When each zone has a purpose, the closet feels organized instead of crowded.

Kate: Each generation has different needs. Children may share rooms temporarily, adults may need discreet work or document storage, and aging parents benefit from reachable layouts and soft-close hardware. Good design acknowledges today’s reality while quietly preparing for tomorrow.

Jenna: What role does editing play when households merge—and how can designers guide that process?

Kate: Combining households almost always requires an honest audit. Duplicate furniture, outdated paperwork, clothing that no longer fits a lifestyle—this is where designers can lead with intention. Well-designed storage gives people permission to let go. The closet isn’t a place to hide clutter; it’s a tool for clarity.

Jenna: What’s often overlooked emotionally in multigenerational design?

Kate: Personal identity. In a full home, everyone needs at least one space that feels like theirs. A thoughtfully designed closet can become a place of calm and ownership during a season that might otherwise feel crowded or uncertain. Good design isn’t just about capacity. It allows dignity.

Jenna: What does “future-proof” storage really mean for families today?

Allanna: Future-proof storage is about creating spaces that grow with families instead of working against them. When closets are designed with adjustability and clear zones, they stay useful no matter what stage of life you’re in.

Kate: Multigenerational living isn’t a compromise when it’s designed well—it’s a collaboration. With the right questions and flexible solutions, closets become stabilizers during change—and sometimes that’s exactly what a family needs.

Continue the conversation: Explore extended insights at bit.ly/acsp-closets