The Role of Family in Design: Creating Multigenerational Spaces That Reflect Shared Values 

In an era where family structures are evolving, how we design our homes must follow suit. At Habitat Architects, multigenerational residential design revolves around a philosophy grounded in empathy, adaptability, and a deep understanding of how families live, grow, and evolve. At the heart of this vision is the Choudhary family, whose collaborative practice blends diverse perspectives into a unified design ethos. 

A Family of Designers, Designing for Families 

Design at Habitat Architects is inherently personal. Each member of the Choudhary family brings a distinct voice to the table, and it is this interplay of expertise that gives the studio its character.  

“Designing for families begins with understanding their dynamics,” Monika Choudhary, CDO, Founder and Growth Strategist at Habitat, shares. “It’s about creating spaces that reflect shared values while accommodating individual needs.” Her perspective is rooted in observation and storytelling, ensuring every home feels like a true reflection of its inhabitants. At the core of Habitat’s residential projects is the idea that a home must support both privacy and connection. Zafar Choudhary, CEO, Founder and Principal Architect at Habitat, elaborates, “Space planning is key. By designing flexible layouts and incorporating transitional zones, we ensure that spaces evolve with the family’s needs over time.”  

In one recent project, this idea came to life through a central courtyard that acted as both a connector and a buffer. Surrounded by private rooms, the courtyard became the symbolic and spatial heart of the home—bringing the family together while still allowing for retreat and privacy when needed. Such spatial strategies allow families to coexist across generations, respecting both individual rhythms and collective rituals. 

Honouring Legacy While Embracing the Future 

As families change, so must the systems that support them. Sahir Choudhary, Director of Operations and Senior Architect at Habitat, focuses on integrating technology into these homes ensuring that they are not only adaptable in layout, but also responsive in experience. “Smart systems allow homes to adapt to the changing needs of their occupants, from lighting preferences to energy efficiency,” he explains. These aren’t gadgets for the sake of novelty—they’re tools that simplify living. Whether it’s intuitive lighting that supports different schedules or energy systems that adjust to occupancy patterns, technology becomes a silent partner in the life of the home. 

While layout and infrastructure provide structure, it’s the interiors that bring emotional warmth. Sarah Choudhary, Creative Director and Senior Interior Designer at Habitat highlights how crafting spaces for families is a deeply personalised endevour. “It’s about creating a sense of belonging,” she says. “The textures, colours, and furnishings all contribute to a home’s identity.” Her approach layers comfort with cultural memory—balancing timeless materials with contemporary sensibilities. In a multigenerational context, these choices become even more vital, as interiors must reflect the tastes and habits of different age groups while still feeling cohesive. 

Together, the Choudharys demonstrate how cross-generational perspectives can lead to innovative, timeless designs that honor tradition while embracing modernity.