Designer Tricks for Pet Friendly Homes
By Dawn Westdawn.west@interiordesignschooreview.com
People love their pets. They buy doggie sweaters, kitty breath mints, and designer leashes. People even make real estate decisions based on their pets. (I love the apartment, but Rover has to run free!) Sooner or later, you'll have pet-loving clients who want a design that meets both human and animal needs. Here are a few easy designer tricks to help you out with that pet-friendly design.
Color
If your clients own a fluffy white Persian, a black suede couch would be a serious designer foible. Vacuum-happy as anyone may be, it's best to choose a palette that won't show hair. Remind your clients that as much as they love white, if they plan on having the dog indoors, that might prove challenging. Learn more about The Art Institute Online's Bachelor Degree program in Interior Design.
Durability
Owners may swear their pets are as gentle as little lambs, but scratchy paws can do a number on delicate surfaces. Consider tough substances, like laminate floors, to make sure that the house and the pet remain good friends. An easy bit of designer forethought will save your clients a lot of hassle in the long run.Storage
Owning an animal requires a lot of gear. From shampoo and brushes to food, leashes, and toys. Talk to your clients about their preferences. Do they want to wash the dog in the bathtub or in a big utility sink in a room near the garage? Do they want to keep gear near the door or further inside the house. Whatever they decide, plan for ample storage space in that area.Dedicated Space
People like their pets nearby, so you're unlikely to be designing a special "pet wing." Designing a space in a house that's pet-focused, however, can leave pets and their owners smiling (and recommending you to friends). Whether it's in the corner of a living room or bedroom, a gathering place for toys, scratching posts, sleeping pillows, etc. signifies the importance of a pet in the owner's life.As an interior designer, people, not pets, are usually at the top of your mind. When you're working with pet owners, though, bringing pets to the forefront of your thoughts will take you a long way toward coming up with a great design.
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