Gary Finn on the Better Homes and Gardens Podcast: Designing Inter-Generational Homes for Inclusive Living
Sydney Access Consultants Partner Gary Finn recently appeared as a guest on the Better Ideas podcast (from the Better Homes and Gardens family), hosted by Peter Colquhoun (Pete Colquhoun), the resident architect on Australia's iconic Better Homes and Gardens TV show.
In the episode focused on "The Inter-generational Home", Gary shared expert insights on creating multi-generational living spaces that are practical, inclusive, and future-proof. The discussion covered how modern families—both in Australia and increasingly in Malaysia—are choosing to live together across generations to strengthen family bonds, share responsibilities, and build adaptable homes that support everyone from young children to ageing parents and people with disabilities.
Why Inter-Generational Homes Matter in Malaysia
Malaysia’s cultural emphasis on close family ties, combined with a rapidly ageing population and rising living costs, makes inter-generational or multi-generational homes an increasingly popular and sensible choice. These homes allow grandparents, parents, and children to coexist comfortably, sharing childcare, elder care, financial burdens, and emotional support while preserving privacy and independence.
However, successful design requires thoughtful planning to ensure the home remains accessible, safe, and enjoyable for all family members over decades. Gary Finn, drawing on decades of expertise in inclusive design and universal design, highlighted essential features such as:
- Step-free entries and level transitions for easy movement
- Wider doorways and clear circulation paths
- Ground-floor bedrooms and bathrooms suitable for elderly or mobility-impaired family members
- Adjustable-height counters, lever handles, and smart adaptations
- Flexible layouts that can evolve as family needs change (e.g., ageing-in-place provisions)
These elements align closely with Malaysian standards, including MS 1184:2014 (Code of Practice for Universal Design and Accessibility in the Built Environment), the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008, and UBBL By-Law 34A, helping families avoid costly future modifications.
Key Takeaways from Gary Finn’s Discussion
Gary emphasized that inclusive design in inter-generational homes goes far beyond minimum compliance:
- Early integration of accessibility features is far more cost-effective than retrofitting later.
- Thoughtful design maintains dignity, independence, and safety for every family member without creating a clinical or institutional feel.
- Universal design principles benefit the whole household—children, adults, seniors, and guests—making the home more welcoming and practical.
- Balancing aesthetics, functionality, and adaptability creates spaces that truly enhance quality of life and family harmony.
This conversation reflects a growing global and Malaysian trend: building homes that are not only beautiful but also equitable, adaptable, and prepared for the long term.
Bringing Inter-Generational and Inclusive Design Expertise to Malaysia
Through Sydney Access Consultants (Malaysia) PLT, Gary Finn and our Kuala Lumpur-based team apply these international insights to Malaysian projects. We assist developers, architects, homeowners, and families with:
- Accessible inter-generational home design
- Universal design consultations for new builds and renovations
- Disability access audits and appraisals
- Compliance certification under Malaysian regulations
- Practical, cost-effective solutions for ageing-in-place and multi-generational living
Whether you're planning a new family compound, upgrading an existing home for extended family, or ensuring your residential project meets accessibility standards, our team is here to help create spaces that support Malaysian families now and into the future.
Contact us for tailored advice on inclusive, family-focused design.
Sydney Access Consultants (Malaysia) PLT Level 6, Menara Darussalam, 12 Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Phone: +60 3-2779 7117 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Visit accessconsultants.asia to learn more about our inclusive design Malaysia services, accessibility consulting, and universal design expertise for homes, housing developments, and community spaces. Explore our Australian portfolio at sydneyaccessconsultants.com.au.
Let’s design inter-generational homes that are accessible, comfortable, and truly better for every generation!