‘Our perfect companions never have fewer than four feet” - Colette
As I write this issue, the levels of pet ownership and adoption have skyrocketed thanks to people spending extended periods of time at home. And in my business, this means more and more people are and adapting their homes to accommodate the pets they love.
Many clients ask us to consider their pets when we compose our designs. This is one of the most common requests during our interviews and initial meetings. In fact, there are some amazing techniques, products and solutions that can help you create a beautiful space for you and your fur babies where everyone can comfortably coexist.
Space and materials
Planning and considering your space are key to seamless design with pets in mind. Think about what access you want your furry friends to have around the house. Are you a “no pets on the furniture” kind of home? Or more relaxed about who you cozy up with on a cold winter night? These kinds of boundaries will help you design your space accordingly. For example, will your pet’s bed be part of the bedroom, hidden away in the laundry, or do you need to integrate it into a living area so it’s safe and cozy for them, and not disruptive to you? Consider the location, the function and the style you envision for your home.
Thankfully, there are very stylish pet beds now available with washable covers. Knowing your lifestyle with your pet, it may be as simple as getting soft, washable throws to toss over a sofa for cuddling. Many times, we have ordered a few extra yards of fabric with a custom sofa order, only to have it hemmed as a tailored, matching, washable piece, which can then tuck over the cushion. This is great for a modern, non-fussy look. And of course, you can never go wrong with slipcovered upholstery in a washable, natural fabric.
Stain-resistant and hard-wearing materials are key when it comes to interior design with pets in mind. The last thing you want is your puppy having an accident on a rare, antique rug. Materials that are easy to wipe clean, odor resistant and stain-proof will be your saving grace if and when an accident happens. Indoor/Outdoor rugs can be a great choice in a living room for an active, busy family and pet-friendly lifestyle.
In terms of natural fibers, think leather, quality linens, heavy cotton textures and wool. The key is fiber construction – the tighter the fibers, the more resistant it will be to stains and odors. If you prefer to opt for synthetic materials, Nylon, Olefin, and Acrylic are also good choices. There are incredible advances in stain resistant, washable fabrics (even linen these days!) but know that there is no fabric or leather that will eliminate or repel kitty’s claws, or a pup’s active nails jumping onto furniture. And in this realm, you must relax, don’t stress. The enjoyment and comfort of your pet is the most important aspect! People ask me all the time if a fabric will be OK with their cat… The answer is: If kitty likes to scratch, then, nope, it’s not gonna stay perfect!
Note: Although there are amazing advances in stain resistant, man-made fabrics, a natural fabric will always clean beautifully and not retain odors if it is a washable cover. Man-made fabrics will absorb and hold pet odors more than a natural fiber. Especially if the only option is wiping down the surface and not fully washing.
Toys and more
Dogs come with a host of extra things: leashes, collars, toys, and some have wardrobes! Hooks on the inside of doors, beautiful woven storage baskets, and dedicated pet-drawers are helpful to organizing Fido’s life! I also love to see artful, ceramic bowls for food and water. Check out @belitaspace on Insta, and located in Jacksonville for local, beautiful, handmade ceramic vessels for your pet. If you are building or remodeling, you can incorporate some great built-ins to keep your style clean and uncluttered.
Another great thing to incorporate for the active “Oregonian with Pets” is a dog washing station in a laundry room or mudroom. There are great ideas online to get design tips and consider size and function when designing a pet shower. We are designing a very fun laundry room now that will have a built-in shower for Juniper, the retriever.
Pets are a sourced of comfort and companionship that need not be explained. Most of my clients have always had pets, and it truly seems now more than ever. But I do believe the balance can co-exist between a beautifully designed space, and a practical, cozy space for you, your pet, your friends and family.
