IF THERE'S ONE tradition to which Hongkongers hold true, it's the notion of living with their children into old age. According to last year's Axa Retirement Scope global survey, Hong Kong topped the list of 15 countries where people expect to live with their children on retirement.
The survey found that 24 per cent of Hong Kong retirees live with their children. Among respondents aged over 45, about two in 10 (26 per cent of males and 17 per cent of females) cited residing with their children in older age as the 'ideal living arrangement'.
Designer Richy Ng recognises that most middle-aged Hongkongers continue to provide for their parents, spouse and children. However, he says that younger clients are moving towards having two separate homes: one for their elderly parents, and one for themselves.
Although today's extended families uphold these traditional values, they have different needs. They may be happy enough to live together, but they no longer want to grapple for space or share basic facilities.
For this reason, if there's room, Ng always proposes separate living areas in the multi-generational homes he designs. 'A combined living/dining room and a separate family room will give everyone room to space themselves out,' says Ng, of Box Design. 'Ideally, if there are two floors, there could be one living space upstairs and another downstairs.'
The living spaces should be purpose-designed to cater for different needs. 'The older generation's space should contain the bare necessities such as an area for a TV, and maybe a small sound system,' says Ng. 'The lighting here should be bright, but not flat. Furniture can be a little sparse and comfort is the priority. The sofa shouldn't be too low because this would make it difficult for older folks. For the younger generation, these concepts are reversed. We build into the design items such as up-to-date home theatre and sound systems. Furniture is sleek, and all pieces should co-ordinate. Comfort comes almost last on the agenda. Lighting should be dim for atmosphere.'