26 Sep How to Design the Perfect Pet-Friendly Home
Our pets are not just animals—they’re part of our family. Whether you have a playful dog, a curious cat, or a more exotic pet, thoughtful home designs can create spaces that are both beautiful and functional for everyone in the household. In this blog, we’ll explore practical tips for designing a pet-friendly home that meets the needs of both humans and pets.
1. Pet-Friendly Flooring
The right flooring can make a big difference when it comes to living with pets, as the floors should be easy to clean and durable due to them being messy. Some options include:
- Stone Flooring:These materials are scratch-resistant and easy to clean, making them perfect for homes with pets. Spills and accidents can be wiped away quickly, and their hard surfaces stand up to wear and tear.
- Luxury Vinyl Flooring:This flooring mimics the appearance of wood or stone while resistant to scratches and moisture.
- Hardwood (with a protective finish): While it looks beautiful, hardwood can be vulnerable to pet scratches. If you choose hardwood, select a durable species like oak or maple and apply a strong finish to protect the wood.
Avoid carpeting in areas where pets spend the most time, as it can trap hair, odours, and stains.
2. Incorporate Pet-Friendly Furniture
When designing pet-friendly homes, it’s important to ensure that your furniture is durable, easy to clean, and comfortable. Here are a few tips we would suggest:
- Stain-resistant fabrics: Choose furniture made from performance fabrics like microfiber or leather, as they’re easier to clean and resist stains from muddy paws or accidental spills.
- Scratch-resistant surfaces:Avoid delicate or high-maintenance fabrics like silk or velvet and instead opt for tightly woven materials that can withstand pet claws.
- Covered furniture: To protect sofas and chairs, use washable slipcovers or throws, as these can be removed and washed easily when they get dirty.
3. Dedicated Pet Zones
Pets need their own space to relax and feel secure, so dedicating a specific area in your home for them not only creates a sanctuary for your pet but also helps keep the rest of your house more organised. Consider the following:
- Pet Nooks:If space allows, create a cosy pet nook or alcove under stairs, in a quiet corner, or in your living room to hold their bed, toys, and food dishes.
- Pet Gates:Choose a stylish pet gate to keep them out of certain areas when necessary, while still allowing them to roam freely.
4. Smart Storage Solutions for Pet Supplies
With pets come many accessories—leashes, toys, food, grooming supplies, and more. Incorporating smart storage solutions can help keep your home organised, for example:
- Built-in cabinetry or shelves: In your mudroom, laundry room, or kitchen, consider adding dedicated pet storage. Bins and baskets can store toys and supplies while keeping the space neat.
- Pull-out trash bins for pet food: This helps with easy access while maintaining a clean and clutter-free look.
5. Pet-Safe Outdoor Spaces
If you have a garden, making it pet-safe is essential, as a well-designed outdoor space can be both a haven for your pet and you. Here are a few tips for creating this:
- Secure Fencing:Ensure that your outside area is fully fenced to keep your pet safe and prevent them from escaping, from being tall enough to keep larger pets from jumping over, and buried deep enough to prevent digging under.
- Pet-friendly Plants:Avoid toxic plants like lilies, azaleas, and sago palms, which can be harmful if ingested by pets. Sunflowers, marigolds, or pet grass are examples of non-toxic plants.
- Outdoor Play Zones:Create shaded areas where your pets can relax and consider installing water features like pet fountains to keep them hydrated.
6. Design with Pets’ Natural Behaviours in Mind
Understanding your pet’s instincts can help you create a more harmonious living space.
- For Cats:Cats love to climb and explore vertical spaces, so installing cat shelves or creating climbing towers will keep them entertained. Don’t forget to add scratching posts to protect your furniture from claw marks.
- For Dogs:Dogs, especially those that love to chew, need sturdy, chew-resistant materials. If your dog enjoys lounging in the sun, think about placing their bed near a window.
7. Pet-Friendly Entryways
If you’re a dog owner, entryways are often the first point of contact when your pet comes home from a walk. Setting up a pet-friendly entryway will help keep dirt, mud, and water at bay.
- Dog Washing Station: In larger homes or homes with outdoor spaces, installing a low sink or pet washing station near the entrance can help clean up muddy paws before your pet enters the house.
- Non-slip Mats:Place washable, non-slip mats near doors to catch dirt and water as pets enter, as it will protect your floors and reduce the need for constant cleaning.
8. Pet Safety in Design
When designing your home, safety should be a priority, especially if you have curious or active pets.
- Childproof Locks:Install childproof locks on cabinets containing cleaning supplies or chemicals to prevent pets from accessing dangerous substances.
- Cord Management:Secure electrical cords and wires out of reach, especially for pets that enjoy chewing.
9. Pet-Friendly Colour Schemes
Consider your pet’s attributes when choosing your home’s colour palette, as, for example, light-coloured fabrics and floors may show pet hair and dirt more easily, while darker shades can better camouflage stains. For this, match furniture and rug colours to your pet’s fur to minimize the appearance of shedding.
Designing a pet-friendly home is all about striking a balance between style, comfort, and practicality for you and your pet. With the right materials, thoughtful layout, and a few modifications, you can create a space where you and your pets can thrive. After all, a well-designed home is a space where every member feels welcome and comfortable. If you’re looking for help with making your home pet-friendly, contact us today!