Designing Pet-Friendly Spaces: Stylish and Practical Solutions for Living with Pets within Residential Interior Design
7.10.23

Designing Pet-Friendly Spaces: Stylish and Practical Solutions for Living with Pets within Residential Interior Design

Are you considering getting a pet, or have you recently taken the plunge and welcomed an animal into your home? If so, congratulations! Being a pet owner has so many rewards - from companionship to unconditional love. But along with that comes the potential for mischief and messes - unless, of course, you plan ahead by designing stylish yet practical pet-friendly spaces. In this blog, our residential interior design team will discuss how savvy homeowners can create beautiful living areas that work for both interior spaces and furry family members.

Choose Interior Designer Approved Pet Friendly Materials

When it comes to creating interiors that work for both you and your furry friends, selecting pet-friendly materials is key. Consider durable yet luxurious materials for flooring, such as hardwood or tile, that can stand up to the wear and tear of pet paws and spills. When it comes to upholstery, fabrics and furniture materials, think about choosing textures like microfiber or leather that can resist pet hair and scratches. And don't forget about finishes and paints - always opt for non-toxic and pet-safe options to ensure that your beloved pets stay healthy and happy in your home. By choosing pet-friendly materials, you can have a space that is both stylish and functional for you and your four-legged family members.

Image of a dog laying down near the dinner table in a pet friendly home.
Photo by Maria Orlova on Pexels

Creating Functional Spaces for Pets Within Your Home

Your furry friends deserve the same level of comfort as any member of your household, which is why it's important to create functional spaces for pets within your home. Especially if you are using a restrained material palette within your home, designating pet-friendly zones can help your pets feel right at home while also preserving the rest of your home's aesthetic. Whether it's a cozy nook for your cat to nap in which compliments the contemporary design of your home or a section of your backyard for your dog to play safely, creating areas specifically for your pets can improve their quality of life while contributing to your overall interior design aesthetic. Plus, you'll no longer have to worry about their toys and beds cluttering up your living spaces. With a little bit of creativity and some thoughtful planning, your pets will have the perfect spaces to call their own.

Be Strategic by Implementing Pet-Friendly Furniture Within Your Home

For many of us, pets are more than just animals; they're considered family members. Residential interior designers will tell you that incorporating built-in pet feeding stations and storage, as well as pet-friendly furniture and accessories, has become an increasingly popular trend within interior design. From stylish storage solutions for pet food to built-in feeding stations that blend seamlessly into your kitchen or dining room decor, there are plenty of ways to make life with furry friends both practical and stylish. And when it comes to furniture, pet owners can now choose from a range of options that are both comfortable for their pets and stylish enough to fit into any home or interior. With more and more people viewing their pets as valued members of the family, it's no wonder that pet-friendly design is on the rise.

How to Manage Pet Clutter and Organization While Keeping Your Interior Design Intact

Pet owners all know the struggle of trying to maintain a clean and organized space while also keeping their furry friends happy and comfortable. But just because you have pets doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your home's style and aesthetic. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can easily manage pet clutter and keep your home looking beautiful. Consider investing in stylish storage options like woven baskets or decorative crates to keep toys and accessories neatly organized while not taking away from the interior design of the space. Any interior designer will tell you to opt for durable fabrics and materials that can stand up to pet wear and tear, and don't forget to incorporate pet-friendly decor like chic feeding stations or cozy resting spots. With a little creativity and planning, you can have it all - a beautiful home that's also pet-friendly.

Image of a dog sitting inside his tent with a toy at his feet.
Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Pexels

Ensure a Pet Safe Environment

To create a pet-safe environment, it's important to start with secure fencing and gates to prevent pets from wandering off or getting lost. Choosing the right plants is also a crucial factor: selecting pet-friendly flora and avoiding toxic ones can help keep pets healthy and active while adding to the interior spaces. Many commercial interiors are also starting to follow this practice as more cities and commercial businesses make the shift to being dog friendly. Additionally, minimizing hazards through a pet-proof residential interior design strategy can prevent accidents and injuries, giving pet owners peace of mind knowing their furry friends are safe and sound. Creating a pet-friendly and secure home not only benefits pets, but also creates a comfortable living space for their owners.

Use Durable Fabrics that Compliment Your Interior Design Aesthetic

Whether you have pets or kids at home, durability and functionality are key when it comes to choosing fabrics for your furniture. Luckily, there are plenty of options available that not only withstand the test of time but also add a stylish touch to your interior design. Choose fabrics that match your aesthetic whether that's modern, bohemian, or classic. The key is to opt for materials that are easy to clean after an accident or fur disaster. Investing in high-quality, long-lasting fabrics not only ensures the longevity of your furniture but also keeps your home looking chic and put together.

Overall, whether you are using computer aided design or building items by hand in your design studio, designing and creating a pet-friendly home may seem like a daunting task, but it is possible using interior design inspiration, such as ensuring you are using the right combination of materials, smart furniture options and good organization. These don't necessarily have to be expensive products you are investing in for your interior design, as long as they are durable. Tough and stain-resistant flooring options, pet-friendly upholstery fabrics and furniture materials, non-toxic finishes and paints are all great starting points to choose from for pet owners. Furthermore, designing pet-friendly zones within your residential project can help give your furry friends their own space to roam and play. By taking these preliminary steps into account when designing your pet-friendly spaces, you’ll be able to provide an enjoyable environment that both you and your pet can enjoy! If you need help navigating this process yourself, contact us today so one of our interior design experts can walk you through the process.

Jenna Bond

Jenna Bond is a seasoned writer and a passionate advocate for interior and architectural design. With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the art of creating beautiful spaces, Jenna has established herself as a leading authority in the field.

As a dedicated writer for Stewart-Schäfer, Jenna has crafted a wealth of informative and inspiring content that caters to the needs and interests of design enthusiasts and professionals alike. Her articles, filled with expert insights and creative ideas, have become essential reading for those seeking to elevate their understanding of interior and architectural design.

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