As a pet owner, you know that your furry (or scaly) friend is part of the family. And just like the rest of your clan, they deserve a comfortable and stylish home. Here are some interior design tips to make your pet-friendly home both beautiful and functional. Keep reading for everything you need to know about designing a pet-friendly space that will make your furry friend feel right at home.
Think about your pet’s needs.
When designing an interior space for a pet, it is important to start with a plan. Think about your pet’s needs and how you want the space to function. If you have a dog, consider where they will sleep, eat, and play. If you have a cat, think about where they will scratch and how much litter box area you will need. Once you know what your pet needs, start thinking about the best way to incorporate those needs into the design of your space.
For example, if your dog likes to play fetch in the backyard, consider adding a large fenced-in yard so they can run around. If your cat likes to scratch furniture, provide them with some scratching posts or horizontal surfaces like shelves that they can scratch. Be sure to include plenty of food and water bowls as well as places for toys and treats.
It’s a good idea to look for flooring materials that are easy to clean such as tile, linoleum, or laminate flooring, and choose light colors that will show dirt less easily. Specialty flooring stores are a great resource for finding new flooring made from pet-friendly materials. Be sure to take flooring samples home to get a sense of how the materials and colors will work in your space. You can find a reputable flooring company near you by searching online. If you live in Dallas, for instance, search for “flooring store in Dallas“ to find flooring experts in your area that can help you with everything from choosing materials to floor installation.
Don’t forget the little details.
Don’t forget to add pet-friendly features and design elements when you’re designing your home! Some things to consider include:
- A designated pet zone with a bed, water bowl, and food bowl
- Stairs that are safe for pets
- A secure yard where they can run and play
- Perches and towers for cats
- Portraits of your pets
And don’t be afraid to add some plants! There are many pet friendly plants that are safe for pets and can be used in interior design. Houseplants such as spider plants, snake plants, and philodendrons are popular choices because they are easy to care for and non-toxic to animals. They also help improve air quality by removing toxins from the air. Other non-toxic plants include cat grass, English ivy, bamboo, succulents, and peace lilies. Many of these plants also happen to be low-maintenance houseplants that don’t require direct sunlight or a green thumb.
Consider your materials.
When it comes to interior design for pet owners, durability and ease of cleaning should be key considerations. Furniture and accessories that can withstand wear and tear and are easy to wipe down are the best way to make life much easier for pet owners. Softer materials such as fabric may not be the best choice, as they can easily become stained or matted with hair. Leather or vinyl furniture is a good option, as it is easy to clean and resistant to scratches and dirt.
Similarly, choose accessories that can be easily cleaned such as ceramic or stainless steel bowls for food and water, or synthetic rugs that can be hosed down if they get dirty. By thinking ahead about what will be easiest to clean, pet owners can save themselves time and hassle down the road.
Overall, it’s important to create a space that is functional and aesthetically pleasing for both the pet and the owner. Some key tips include providing a designated space for the pet to sleep and eat, as well as incorporating materials that are easy to clean in case of accidents.
