Pets are part of our family, so their habits need to be taken into account when designing a home. Especially if your furry friend is a little mischievous like ours, a few right decisions make it possible to live together without compromising on aesthetics or stress.
What to consider in decoration
Roller blinds instead of curtains
If your friend loves to scratch and climb, long floor-length curtains get damaged very quickly. Roller blinds, zebra blinds or systems mounted close to the window last much longer.
Removable covers
In my opinion, removable, washable sofa and cushion covers are one of the most important factors for hygiene. Accidents can always happen; a sofa with replaceable covers keeps them from turning into disasters.
A space of their own
Our furry friends need a dedicated area for food, water, bed and play. Arranging our own space around this area keeps the home in order. Solutions such as a feeding station hidden in the hallway or kitchen cabinets, or a ventilated cabinet for the litter box, are both practical and stylish.
Fabric choice
If your friend likes to scratch, linen is at the top of the list of fabrics to avoid. Because linen is natural and loosely woven, claws easily pull its threads.
Choose these instead:
- Velvet: thanks to its dense weave, claws don’t catch and hair is easy to clean.
- Synthetic but densely woven fabrics such as microfibre velvet and nubuck.
- If your home has a more casual style, denim fabric, although it is not a common choice.
Floors and rugs
Slippery floors can be tiring for animals; choose durable flooring and short-pile, washable rugs. For flooring options, read our article engineered wood or laminate flooring, and for rug sizes, what to consider when choosing a rug.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most durable sofa fabric for cats?
Densely woven velvet and microfibre fabrics are the most durable options. Avoid linen, chenille and loosely woven fabrics.
Can leather sofas be used in homes with pets?
Leather doesn’t hold hair and is easy to clean, but claw marks may show. If you like a patinated look, it can be a good option.
If you’d like to design your home for every member of the family, take a look at our decoration & renovation service.
