Pet-Friendly Interior Design Tips
As an animal lover, you understand the joy and companionship that pets bring into our lives but just because you share your home with furry friends doesn't mean you have to compromise your home. In fact, good interior design can not only make your home more beautiful but also more resilient and pet-friendly.
As interior designers, we’re trained to think through how our clients will use their space and select materials and finishes that are tailored to their (and their furry friends’) lifestyles and needs. Whether you're considering a complete overhaul or simply looking for ways to incorporate furniture and decor that will withstand zoomies, these essential tips will help you create a home that's perfect for both you and your beloved companions.
Flooring
Flooring is usually one of the largest line items on our clients’ budgets simply because of the sheer quantity needed. It’s imperative that your flooring is tailored to your lifestyle and maintenance ability.
Pets, with their playful nature and occasional accidents, can definitely put your flooring to the test. Choosing the right flooring materials is crucial to ensure that your floors can withstand the wear and tear of pet ownership while still maintaining their aesthetic appeal for years to come. Here are some durable flooring options to consider:
Luxury Vinyl Tile - Luxury vinyl flooring has become increasingly popular over the last decade but is especially appealing for pet owners due to its durability, water resistance, and affordability. It mimics the look of hardwood or stone while offering superior scratch and stain resistance. Look for luxury vinyl planks or tiles with a thick wear layer of at least 12 mils (20 mils is considered “contract” grade) for added durability.
Laminate - Laminate flooring offers the look of hardwood with added durability and resistance to scratches and stains. It's also more budget-friendly than hardwood, making it an attractive option for pet owners. Look for laminate flooring with a high AC rating, indicating its durability and suitability for high-traffic areas.
Tile - Tile flooring is highly durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture, making it an excellent choice for homes with pets. Porcelain tiles are particularly durable and come in a wide range of colors and styles to suit any design aesthetic. Consider using larger format tiles with minimal grout lines to create a seamless look that's easy to clean. When selecting a tile, look for “through-body” tiles which means the color carries through the tile so if you find a way to chip or scratch the tile, it’s much harder to see.
Paint & Wallpaper
When considering paint and wallpaper options for your home, durability, and ease of cleaning become paramount concerns. In terms of paint, opting for semi-gloss or satin finishes over flat or matte ones can make a significant difference in maintaining the appearance of your walls. These finishes are more resistant to moisture, stains, and damage from pet-related activities as well as more easily cleanable. Additionally, choosing washable or scrubbable paint formulas can provide added convenience, allowing you to easily wipe away dirt, smudges, and paw prints without compromising your fresh paint job.
Just because you have furry friends doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy beautiful wallcoverings in your home. However, if you do opt for wallpaper, look for options that are wipeable or scrubbable, such as vinyl or vinyl-coated wallpapers. Many manufacturers will translate their standard patterns into vinyl, so you have plenty of options. Textured, patterned, or natural designs (think, grasscloth) can help camouflage minor imperfections while applying a clear protective coating over the wallpaper adds an extra layer of defense against scratches, stains, and moisture.
By carefully selecting durable and cleanable finishes for your walls, you can create a pet-friendly home that's both stylish and practical, ensuring that your walls remain beautiful for years to come.
Fabrics & Upholstery
When it comes to selecting upholstery fabrics for pet-friendly spaces, there are several factors to consider to ensure both style and functionality. One of the primary concerns is durability—opting for fabrics that can withstand the wear and tear of daily life with pets is essential. Performance fabrics like microfiber, Crypton, and leather are particularly well-suited for homes with pets. Microfiber is lauded for its durability and resistance to stains, making it a practical choice for pet owners. Crypton fabrics, on the other hand, are specially engineered to repel moisture, stains, and odors, providing an added layer of protection against pet-related accidents. Leather upholstery offers another durable option that can endure scratches and is easily wiped clean with a damp cloth.
Interestingly, velvet is a great choice for cat owners as cats tend to avoid clawing velvet due to its unique texture and dense pile. Unlike other fabrics that may be easily snagged or caught by their claws, velvet's tightly woven fibers make it less appealing for scratching. Additionally, the plush surface of velvet tends to mask minor imperfections and pet hair, making it an attractive option for pet-friendly homes.
It's important to keep in mind that each pet is unique and may have their own preferences when it comes to fabrics they like and dislike. Some pets may be drawn to certain textures or fabrics, while others may avoid them altogether. Communicating your pet's preferences and behaviors to your interior designer can help ensure that they select upholstery fabrics that meet both your style preferences and your pet's needs.
Designing a pet-friendly home involves thoughtful consideration of flooring, paint/wallcovering, and upholstery choices. By selecting durable materials you can create a space that is both stylish and resilient to the demands of pet ownership. If you're ready to create a beautiful pet-friendly home that stands the test of time, we invite you to schedule a complimentary discovery call with us. Let's work together to design a space where you and your furry companions can thrive.