A Paw-sitively Perfect Home: A Guide to Pet-Friendly Interior Design

Our home for many of us is also home for our beloved pets. Designing a space that accommodates both your style and your pet’s needs isn’t easy but the reward can be a stunning and harmonious space that works for everyone. In this week’s blog, we’ll explore some ideas to create a space that’s functional for pets without comprising on your style.

Paw-friendly flooring

Scratches, spills, and accidents are a part of pet ownership. Opt for flooring materials that can handle these challenges. Hardwood floors with a strong finish, laminate, vinyl, or tile are great choices. However, with tiles you should consider grout colour as light coloured grout will need specific cleaning. Rugs can add warmth to your space, but make sure to choose ones that are easy to clean and resistant to stains.

Pet-Friendly Fabrics and Furniture

When it comes to choosing fabrics for furniture and upholstery, opt for materials that can withstand the wear and tear of pets. Lots of companies nowadays offer specific fabrics which are spill resistant and easy to wipe clean, without comprising on your personal taste. Leather can be a good choice but can scratch fairly easily. Colour is also an important consideration when creating your colour scheme. That beige sofa may look lovely but it won’t if your mucky pup leaves lots of muddy paw prints. Carpets are another important consideration, both in terms of colour and pile. Too deep a pile can store up pet hair, which can leave a ‘doggy’ smell and cats can use it as their own personal scratch mat.

Optimal Room Layout for Pets

Consider your pet's habits when arranging furniture. Create cozy corners for them to rest and place their beds or blankets away from high-traffic areas. They should have somewhere they can go and relax, where it’s quieter and has less footfall. Ensure that there's ample space for them to move around without knocking over delicate items, and think about height of coffee tables so your morning coffee doesn’t end up all over the floor.

Pet-Safe Plants

If you're a plant lover, be cautious about the types of plants you bring into your home. Plants bring a lot of health benefits for humans, but some plants can be toxic to pets if ingested. Opt for pet-safe plants like spider plants, Boston ferns, and air plants that can add a touch of greenery without posing a risk. Consider where to position plants, tall plants with the pot on the floor could be subject to some dirt digging and mess!

Stylish Storage for Pet Supplies

Keep pet toys, food, and other supplies organised with stylish storage solutions. Consider decorative baskets, cabinets, or built-in storage compartments that blend seamlessly with your interior design. For example, wicker baskets or wooden bowl stands could seamlessly integrate your pet’s needs with your personal style, creating a polished look for your space.

A pet-friendly home doesn't mean sacrificing style or elegance. By incorporating these pet-friendly interior design ideas, you can create a space that's not only visually appealing but also caters to your pet's comfort and safety. I think Bruce, my cocker spaniel, approves of our interior style as he can often by found curled up on the sofa or finding toys in his toy basket. Remember, a harmonious living environment for you and your pets is achievable, and with the right design choices, you can enjoy a beautiful and functional home that brings joy to everyone, both humans and our beloved furry friends.