Interior Design for today’s modern family usually encompasses all family members opinions, lifestyles, and tastes. However, one member who may get left out of the designing process, (albeit still very much a part of the family dynamic), is your pet. Whether it’s a scrappy dog, a long haired cat, or a squeaky Guinea Pig – the entire family will reap the rewards with a pet friendly interior design.
Although some pets can be a bit more challenging than others when it comes to having their needs met, most of them require the basic essentials in regards to living comfortably within the home; a place for their toys, an area that is designated for eating, somewhere to store supplies, and a place to rest their furry heads.
Pet Friendly Floors and Furniture
Just Another Family Member
Just as the rest of the family members make their presence known by playing the music too loud, heaping their clothes on the floor, leaving a trail of muddy footprints throughout the house … your pet will also need to be looked after in regards to odors and stains and other damage that is a direct result of having a pet indoors.
Thankfully, there are many strategies that can be used when considering a Interior Design with a Pet in mind. With a few general ideas you can easily implement into your designing process, you’ll be able to create a comfortable sanctuary for all family members while still keeping all the home’s beauty, charm and style intact.
A Tile Floor Entry Makes It Easy To Clean Up After Pets
7 Tips For Designing A Home With Pets
- Flooring: Having wall to wall carpeting when you have furry pets generally makes it tougher to stay on top of the cleanliness. Fur and pet oils, among other body fluids, get trapped within the carpet creating a breeding ground for odors and bacteria. Consider using large, patterned area rugs that compliment your home decor. You can easily clean under them, so nothing gets trapped below the carpet, and the pattern will help hide any stains. It’s also less expensive to get rid of the area rug if it’s been soiled than to replace a room full of carpet. Hardwood, tile and ceramic also works nicely.
- Walls: Consider the texture of your walls if you have pets that roam freely. A highly textured wall will act as a magnet for pet fur when your cat or dog rubs against it. Another idea to keep in mind when Painting the walls is too choose a semi-gloss or satin paint over a flat finish, which will aid in keeping the fur on the animal and not on the wall.
- Dinner Time: Unsightly pet dishes on the floor of your beautifully designed Kitchen isn’t always the best look for your decor. Innovative ideas such as utilizing the toe kick in the bottom of your cabinetry to house your pet dishes, are becoming very popular. The food bowls simply slide out when it’s time for dinner, and slide back under to be easily concealed when not in use. Keeping fresh water available for your pets is important, of course, so consider having an attractive water dish available in an area that is not in view.
- Doors: Just like the kids, the pets will also be tracking in mud and muck after being outside. Installing tile or wood in the Entry Way will help tackle the problem with ease. Keeping a door mat outside the door will also help trap debris before entering. Utilizing a small cupboard, closet, bench or other piece of furniture to hide pet leashes, pet wipes, doggy treats and other pet essentials, will also create harmony at the front or back door.
- Upholstery: You may be in love with that gorgeous silk drenched sofa, but your kitty on the other hand will think nothing of shredding the fabric to pieces. Choose fabrics and furniture that not only hides any fur that may get left behind, but also won’t warrant your pet having the need to use it as a scratch post or a chew toy. A smooth Tapestry works well. If you just can’t part with your sofa – think slip covers. Also take note of the exposed wood on your furniture; wicker, rattan and sisal will serve as a teething toy for your new puppy, whereas metal or chrome will keep them searching for another source.
- Window Treatments: Who doesn’t love a good view of the beautiful outdoors? Your pets are no exception. Kitties will love to sun themselves on the window sill and dogs want to know who just drove up in the driveway. Although there are some fabulous Window Treatments for all styles of Interior Design, consider using light weight, sheer fabric. This will allow the dog to look out while still providing easy access to the window sill for the feline. If you choose blinds, keep them pulled up when the animals are roaming freely in the home as to avoid finding them on the floor when you return.
- Entertainment: We all can use a little, right? Your pet is no different … when designing your home give consideration to where your furry loved ones will play. Keeping their toys easily accessible – but out of view, is just another way to help blend their needs within your home decor. Baskets, cabinetry, covered benches are just a few ideas that will help you achieve a neat and tidy living area while still attending to this family members “me” time.
Consult a Professional Interior Designer
When it comes to designing the home of your dreams to include all family members, two legged and four, consulting with a Professional Interior Designer will provide you with a wealth of information and knowledge to help you achieve a home that reflects everyone’s personality – even the ones that say “woof”.
For more ideas on decorating your home please visit our Interior Design Ideas Gallery where you’ll find inspiration on every page.
