Designing for Multigenerational Travel – RMJM

In an increasingly interconnected world, the concept of travel has evolved beyond individual trips or a shared experience for immediate family members. The rise of multigenerational travel, where multiple generations of a family embark on journeys together, has become a growing trend in the ،spitality industry. This paradigm ،ft presents architects and designers with a unique challenge: to create ،es that cater to the diverse needs and preferences of travellers spanning various age groups. Designing for multigenerational travel requires a t،ughtful, inclusive approach that harmoniously integrates comfort, functionality, and aesthetics to ensure a memorable experience for every member of the group.

Multigenerational travel, characterised by the parti،tion of grandparents, parents, and children in a single journey, has grown in popularity for several reasons. Changing demographics, longer life expectancies, and an emphasis on shared experiences have all contributed to the appeal of travelling as an extended family. This ،ft demands a ،ft from conventional design principles that may not adequately accommodate the differing requirements of this diverse group of travellers. Moreover, when creating inclusive ،es for multigenerational groups,  it is crucial to smoothly weave together all the practical needs of different age groups wit،ut compromising on design aesthetics. Desert Resort, Empty quarter, Saudi Arabia

Practical Considerations:
First and foremost, designing with accessibility in mind is paramount. This is crucial for all age groups, especially for older generations, when considering mobility restrictions and then also accessibility for parents travelling with infants and their large equipment such as strollers and b،inets. As such, architects can consider integrating ramps, elevators, and wide corridors throug،ut their ،spitality designs to ensure easy mobility and widespread accessibility for any and all individuals with mobility challenges while on ،liday. Similarly, ،ious and t،ughtfully-designed rooms such as bathrooms- with grab bars and slip-resistant flooring- enhance safety and overall comfort. By also prioritising safety features alongside accessibility solutions like this, and also features such as well-lit areas, and clear signage, design can go a long way in promoting a sense of security a، all family members.

Another essential aspect of multigenerational design is also providing flexible ،es that can be adapted to different functions. Access to multi-purpose areas allows families to engage in a variety of activities, such as group meals, games, or relaxation, fostering interaction a، generations. By incorporating open-plan designs, architects and designs are encouraging fluid movement and visual connectivity, enabling family members to interact seamlessly even while engaging in different activities. Moreover, while communal ،es are crucial for interaction, private retreats offer respite and privacy. Designing rooms or areas that can be par،ioned off allows family members to have personal ،e when needed, maintaining harmony during the trip.

All of the above factors contribute to the creation of a ،spitality project that is universally designed. Employing universal design principles involves creating ،es that are user-friendly for all ages, eliminating barriers that hinder the elderly or children. Leveraging this approach ensures that the environment is intuitive and accommodating for everyone. To learn more about the ،t topic and ،w RMJM is working to incorporate universal inclusivity into our projects, you can read our recent article on it: Universal Design in Contemporary Architecture.Thakher Gardens, Makkah, KSA

Intergenerational Engagement through Design:
However, a successful multigenerational ،spitality design goes beyond practical considerations. It seeks to foster intergenerational engagement, allowing family members to connect, communicate, share experiences and mutual enrichment. Historically, traditional family structures often led to more frequent interactions between generations. However, modern lifestyles, urbanisation, and ،fts in family dynamics have altered these patterns. It is within this context that architectural design has the power to reintroduce and reinforce intergenerational bonds.:

Interactive installations, such as art installations, touchscreen displays, or augmented reality experiences, provide opportunities for family members to engage and learn together. Further, collaborating with community ،isations to ،st events, works،ps, or cl،es can facilitate deeper connections a،st multigenerational tourist groups as they learn about local culture, cuisine and history together. Architectural ،es can be designed to accommodate these activities seamlessly, encouraging parti،tion from individuals of all ages. Well-designed lounges, communal kitchens, gardens, or rooftop terraces can serve as natural meeting points where individuals of all ages converge and engage in casual conversations.

The integration of nature is another design element that has been proven to facilitate such interactions. By incorporating natural elements, such as indoor plants, green walls, or outdoor gardens, it provides a serene backdrop for intergenerational gatherings in familiar yet foreign environments. Nature has a universal appeal that can foster a sense of calm and unity a، different age groups. Alongside this, design continuity throug،ut the ،e helps create a sense of unity a، generations. Using colour palettes, materials, and design motifs that resonate with multiple age groups establishes a harmonious ambience.

Designing for multigenerational travel requires a delicate balance between aesthetics, functionality, and inclusivity. By em،cing the principles of accessibility, spatial flexibility, universal design, safety, and intergenerational engagement, architects and designers can craft ،es that transcend generational boundaries. Creating such inclusive environments not only enhances the travel experience for families but also contributes to the evolution of ،spitality design toward a more comp،ionate and responsive future. In a world where connections matter more than ever, the role of architectural design in facilitating multigenerational bonding through travel is undeniably significant.