20/03/2023
Design Tips
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Design Tips
Top 10 Tips for Pet-friendly Interior Design
20/03/2023
Hey there pet lovers!
During the pandemic, where social distancing and working from home became the norm, there was a significant increase in dog and cat adoption rates. Whether for companionship, stress relief, exercise, or keeping the kids occupied, these furry family members have brought so many benefits to our well-being. At Liquid Interiors, our design philosophy always prioritizes well-being and how it can improve our sustainable lifestyle. So, without further ado, here’s a collection of our top 10 tips on how to design a pet-friendly home that both you and your furry friends will adore for 2023.
1) Cleaning stations
One of the best ways to keep your furniture clean and long-lasting is by preventing dirt from entering your home in the first place. Since dogs typically need more help with cleaning than cats, let’s focus on them. First, take a look at every point of entry your furry friend has to your home – whether it’s the front entrance, balcony, or backyard entrance – and plan to keep dirt out. If you have enough space, consider designing a doggy washing area or an outdoor washing area near the back entrance.
For all other entry points, a storage area for eco-friendly paw cleaner solutions and necessary accessories, along with entrance mats for both dogs and humans, can make a big difference.
2) Pet friendly furniture & materials
When it comes to creating a pet-friendly home, choosing furniture and materials that can withstand the wear and tear of furry friends is important. Don’t worry, you don’t have to sacrifice style for function! Investing in quality, durable pieces that match your aesthetic is a more sustainable and cost-effective solution than constantly replacing cheaper options. If your furry friend tends to chew on wood, metal legs may be a better choice for your dining table and chairs. If you prefer wood, opt for furniture made from solid wood with non-toxic finishing and FSC certification. When it comes to upholstery, high performance fabrics are the most durable option on the market. Look for fabrics that are stain, scratch, water, odour, and UV resistant, and be sure to choose the appropriate fabric for each space.
Crypton is a great brand to consider, as their fabrics are Greenguard gold certified for sustainability. Avoid fabrics made from polyester, as they can end up in the ocean as microplastics.
For a neutral white colour palate, consider washable slipcovers and throws on furniture where your pet frequently sits. If you encourage your pet to sit on the furniture, make sure the height is appropriate for them to easily climb up and down.
Traditional Home
3) Place for them to rest
Making sure your furry friends have their own cozy spot to rest is a great way to keep them from lounging on your furniture. Whether it’s a standalone bed or a built-in nook, it’s important to create a space that seamlessly fits into your home’s overall design aesthetic. Take into consideration your pet’s preferences and habits when choosing the location and style of their resting place. With a little bit of planning, you can create a comfortable and stylish haven for your pets to relax in.
4) Play and safety
Your furry friends need to play and have fun, but you also want to keep your furniture in good condition. To strike a balance, consider getting your cat a scratching post or your dog some chew toys. Place them near the furniture they might be tempted to destroy and make them easily accessible by storing them in cute baskets.
Of course, safety should always be top of mind. Cats falling from windows or balconies can be a serious concern, so make sure to install mosquito screens on all windows, especially those on higher floors. If you live in a high-rise and want to let your cat enjoy the balcony without a leash, consider adding a catio for extra protection.
5) Pet friendly plants
When adding plants to your home, it’s important to choose ones that are safe for your furry friends. Some great options include Lemon Lime Maranta, String of Hearts Plants, and Clementine Mandarin Trees. However, if you suspect that your pet has allergies, it may be a good idea to consider an allergy test. Not only are plants an eco-friendly addition to your home, but they also create a relaxing atmosphere for both you and your pets. If you have the space, consider planting an edible garden with wheat-grass, parsley, basil, and thyme for a healthy and natural source of nutrition for you and your furry friends to enjoy.
6) Drinking and Eating
Feeding areas for pets can sometimes be a bit of an eyesore, but it doesn’t have to be that way. You can blend your pet’s feeding station with your home’s design by creating a custom-built feeding station that complements your decor. Just like humans, cats and dogs prefer fresh water. A filtered pet water fountain can be a great solution, especially for cats who are often reluctant to use water bowls and prefer running water. It can also help improve hydration for your furry friend. Keep in mind that these fountains typically require an electrical point, so make sure to incorporate an extra electrical point in the feeding area during your planning phase.
Liquid Interiors
7) Pet doors and gates
Small doors within doors can give your furry friends the freedom to move around the house, both indoors and outdoors. When considering a pet door, make sure to take into account the size of your pet, the durability and security of the materials, as well as insulation.
It’s important to make sure that the pet door blends seamlessly with the design of your home. For example, you could conceal the dog door by creating a flap on one of the door panels. If the door leads to the outside, you may want to consider a more advanced product with a pet collar sensor to prevent unwanted animals and intruders from entering your home.
If you need to keep your dog in a specific area of the house, dog gates can be a lifesaver. There are elegant solutions available, such as a concealed gate that slides out only when necessary. Dutch doors are also a great option that can be used as both a gate and a full door.
8) Dog Potty and Cat Litter solutions
When it comes to pet waste, there are a few things to consider for your furry friends’ potty needs. For cat owners, an automatic self-cleaning cat litter box is a great option, as it’s like a flushable toilet for cats. Plus, it saves space and is super convenient. Just don’t forget to add a separate thermo-ventilator for odour extraction! This can even be tucked away in a cabinet with a cat door. In your planning stage, add a socket inside your cabinet and design for an extraction fan.
For dog owners, indoor potty solutions that look like patches of grass are popular. While automatic options aren’t as common for dogs, it’s important to choose a non-absorbent and non-staining flooring material like tile for easy cleaning. And don’t forget about odour extraction, you can add a separate thermo-ventilator for that too!
For dog owners with an outdoor garden, consider using a worm composter mixed with food scraps. This sustainable solution not only helps with disposing of your dog waste, but it can also reduce plastic waste in landfills. You can use the compost for non-edible plants as fertilizer. Just remember that cat litter cannot be used for compost as it can be hazardous due to its parasites.
Liquid Interiors
9) Robot Vacuum
Keeping your home clean with pets can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be a chore! Daily vacuuming is essential, especially for long-haired pets that shed. With the rise of robot vacuums, it’s now easier than ever to keep your floors fur-free. Make sure to plan for a discreet spot to store your robot vacuum, like a linen closet with bottom access. And don’t forget to choose furniture with legs to allow the vacuum to clean underneath. Plus, having minimal or no thresholds makes it easier for the robot vacuum to move seamlessly from room to room.
However, it’s important to supervise your robot vacuum when you have a puppy who’s still potty training or a sick dog. Accidents can happen, and you don’t want the robot vacuum to spread the mess around. Keep an eye on it and save yourself the hassle!
Liquid Interiors
10) Controlling smells and allergies
As a pet owner, you want your home to smell fresh and clean, for everyone. Despite regular cleaning, pet odors can be stubborn. That’s where a clinical grade air purifier comes in. These machines are great at removing dander and odors from the air, leaving your home smelling fresh and clean. If you’re planning a renovation, you can even connect your air purifier to ducts or conceal it in a cabinet to save floor space.
Liquid Interiors
IQAir is one brand that offers this option, and their consultants can help you plan for the necessary access. It’s essential to consider this during the electrical and ventilation planning phase. Also, using an electric mist air diffuser with natural essential oils is a fantastic way to keep your home smelling great without harmful chemicals. It’s a safe and non-toxic option that’s perfect for pet owners who want to create a healthy environment for their furry friends and their family.
In conclusion. creating a space that promotes their health and well-being, you are ensuring a happier and longer life for your pets. Additionally, incorporating eco-friendly and sustainable options not only benefits the environment, but also creates a healthier and more responsible living space for all members of the family. By following this guide, you can create a home that considers the needs of everyone, including your pets. With a little planning and creativity, you can design a space that is functional, stylish, and safe for your beloved pets. Remember, your home is meant to last a lifetime, and so are the memories you create with your pets in it.
Create your Sanctuary,
With Liquid Interiors
“Quality is Always Sustainable”
For more information, feel free to contact Liquid Interiors, your healthy and eco conscious interior design consultants.