Minimalist.
Mid-Century Modern.
Bohemian.
The possibilities to home design are as endless as the tastes and preferences of each owner. However, what a significant number of homeowners can agree on is that our furry friends truly add a unique joy and warmth to any space.
But how do we go about designing a pet friendly environment that balances aesthetics with the needs of our four-legged friends? Let’s dive into what our pets need and how we can seamlessly integrate those requirements into our home design.
For Dogs:
Cozy Space: Designate a comfortable area for crate training and sleeping.
Room to Play: Ensure ample room for running and playing.
Protection from Hazards: Create pet-friendly zones while restricting access to hazards.
For Cats:
Nooks and Crannies: Create little hideaways for hiding and lounging.
Scratch-friendly Surfaces: Incorporate materials that accommodate their instinct to scratch.
Vertical Spaces: Provide opportunities for climbing and exploration.
1) Choose durable materials
Even for the most well-behaved fur kid, toilet accidents happen from time to time. All it takes is one mishap to lead to permanent stains, especially on certain types of flooring. Puppies are also especially prone to urinating on floors during adolescent years! Try to avoid vinyl flooring too, as dogs and cats might be prone to lose their footing on them.
Instead, you would want to choose hardwood or metal furniture frames to provide some degree of insurance against biting and scratching. Consider stain-resistant fabrics for upholstery – though they might come at a premium, they offer priceless peace of mind.
2) Opt for pet friendly furniture
When creating a pet-friendly home, it goes without saying that choosing the right furniture is crucial. If your pets are free to roam around the house, it is essential to choose pieces that can withstand wear and tear.
Modern pet-friendly furniture combines the best of both worlds – durability and style. Look for materials like synthetic fabrics that are resistant to stains and scratches. Microfibre, for instance, is not only soft and comfortable but also repel pet hair and is easy to clean.
Designer sofas with removable and washable covers are an excellent investment. These options allow your furniture to continue looking pristine over time. Simply toss in the covers in the wash once they get dirty.
You may also consider looking for furniture that doubles as storage spaces, such as ottomans that allow storage for pet toys and food dishes.
Pro Tip:
Look for furniture with rounded edges to minimise injury, especially during playful moments when our pets run and jump around excitedly!
3) Use gates to secure pet-restricted areas
Ever dreamed of showcasing stunning Peranakan tiles or having that luxurious Osim U-Divine massage chair? Yes, you can have your cake and eat it! All it takes is some simple planning. By designating specific areas as pet-free zones, you can protect your valuables while allowing your pets the freedom to roam around the house.
Pet gates are especially useful for keeping your pets safe. We all know how our pets love to gnaw on wires, or taste and lick anything that remotely resembles food! It is crucial to create pet safe zones in the home to prevent fire and other hazards.
Pro Tip:
Instead of opting for generic gates found online, why not ask your interior design team to custom build one that matches the look and feel of your beautiful home?
4) Provide a quiet space
Just like us, dogs and cats need a private space to retreat to sometimes. Designate a quiet area for their crate or playpen, ideally situated away from direct sunlight!
It is important to make this space as comfortable as possible for your pet, so that they would draw an affinity with it. Consider investing in a quality bed or cushion that suits your pet’s preferences, whether it be soft or firm. It might also be useful to select a corner of your home that is away from the hustle and bustle of everyday activities to allow your pet to feel at ease.
You may consult with your interior design team to discuss how large (or small) this area should be to ensure a cohesive look with the rest of the home, but do consider that these little bundles of joy grow up pretty fast, and might need a larger space in a couple of years.
Need Help?
If it feels a little daunting to factor in all these considerations, don’t worry as you don’t have to navigate it alone! Our team at M2 Decor is here to help you create a beautiful, functional space that both you and your pets will love! Don’t hesitate to book a free appointment with us and see how we can bring your dream home to life!
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