New Pet? No Problem: Secrets to Pet-Friendly Interior Design

In these uncertain times, it's no wonder that people all over the country are bringing furry friends into their lives, and as a result, the need for pet-friendly interior design has never been higher. Pet adoptions are on the rise right now for two primary reasons. Of course, a cat or dog makes for a wonderful companion and source of comfort during long days of working from home and hunkering down while the country is under quarantine, , but adoptions are also trending because working professionals are now able be home to train a pet and look after them as they adjust to their new space. And with a new pet in the home comes the challenge of pet-friendly interior design. This means taking into account furniture and fabrics that can withstand the wear and tear of an animal friend, as well as making sure your home is safe for your pet, and making sure you have some design-savvy pet beds and pet accessories on-hand to complement your existing design motif. Our design team is here to help by sharing their top secrets to pet-friendly interior design especially compiled for new pet owners! You're sure to find purr-fect design inspiration that works as well for humans as it does for pets.

Photography Credit: Left, 204 Park; Right: Kate La Vie

Photo via Liz Marie Blog

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Pet-Friendly Interior Design Tip #1: Invest in a Chic Pet Bed

There's no reason to sacrifice your carefully chosen interior design aesthetic when you bring a new pet home. It's actually super easy to find a chic and comfy pet bed that is sure to blend right in with your existing home decor motif. You may want an understated pouf or basket for your furry friend, or you might want to go with something more stylized; you can even scoop up a child's mini teepee for your pet to camp out in. Whatever you choose, make sure the color, texture, and style match items you already have and love. It's also smart to pick a bed that could blend in nicely in any room--you may start with the bed in the living room but later learn that puppy or kitty prefers to snooze in foyer.

Photo via Green Apple Interiors & Design

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Pet-Friendly Interior Design Tip #2: Set Up Safe Spaces for Your Pet to Explore

Puppies and kittens are curious little creatures and they will naturally want to explore when you bring them home. Instead of reprimanding them for poking around in nooks and crannies, make it safe and fun for them by setting up plenty of pet-friendly spaces that work well with your design, but that are also safe for a cat to hop into or a dog to nudge with their nose. This could mean low shelves without anything too precious on them, large floor pillows, durable baskets for throw blankets and toys, and alcoves stocked with a few well-placed toys. This is especially important if you know your pet loves to cause mischief. On the flip side, be sure to tuck breakables away until your new pet is fully trained and think about restyling your console table, bookshelves, and coffee table to be sure that it won't be a problem if your pet knocks any of your trinkets over.

Photography Credits: Left: Lonny Magazine; Right: Apartment Therapy

Photo via Liz Marie Blog

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Pet-Friendly Interior Design Tip #3: Opt for Performance Fabrics

A new pet might take time to properly house train--for this reason, it's important to opt for washable, performance fabrics, as well as indoor/outdoor rugs to help with pet accidents. Additionally, washable and performance fabrics will just, in general, hold up really well over time, so they'll prove to be worth the investment. Plus, you'll love that they're washable once they become covered in pet hair from your new members of the family. It also doesn't hurt to make any rooms with surface floors or ceramic tile your primary pet-care living spaces because they will be easy to clean. Get upholstered furniture in a washable performance fabric for stains and for durability. Most performance fabrics have long lasting, tighter weaves that are perfect for pets. Our design team can help you with these customizations!