Calling all Montgomery County pet owners! Looking to remodel soon? Don’t forget about your furry friends when designing your dream home.
Here are a few pet-friendly ideas to consider including in your next remodel:
Pet Washing Stations
Shampooing your schnauzer inside can be a difficult and stressful chore for both of you. This process becomes much easier with a built-in pet washing station — especially if it’s by an entrance, so you can remove all traces of Fido’s outdoor adventures before he has a chance to snuggle up on the couch. We recommend a low-mounted detachable showerhead that allows you to easily maneuver around your pet, spraying water only where you want it (and not all over the floor or yourself).
Pet washing stations are also easy to clean and can be a great way to keep all grooming essentials in one area for easy access. Furthermore, when you’re not using it to wash the dog, these stations can be used to rinse off muddy shoes or as a place to toss wet outdoor gear and kids’ sports equipment after coming in from the outside.
Pet-Friendly Flooring
Pet owners have lots to consider when choosing flooring. Between claw scratches, accidents, and muddy paws, you’ll want flooring that’s durable and easy to clean. Here are some of the most popular flooring choices for pet owners:
· Luxury Vinyl: Hardwood floors are beautiful, but can scratch easily and warp when wet. Luxury vinyl flooring has the look of hardwood but is completely waterproof and much more durable.
· Tile: While costlier, tile flooring is one of the most durable flooring choices available. Installing it in the kitchen will not only enhance the look of your space, but also make for easy cleanup of water bowl spills and other messes.
· Bamboo: Bamboo is naturally tough and will stand up to scratches more than hardwood floors. It is also water-resistant, though more sensitive to moisture than tile or vinyl.
Built-in Pet Spaces
Our furry friends have lots of essentials that can quickly
clutter our living areas. Instead of adding these items on top of the pieces
you already have, try incorporating them as part of your permanent furniture.
Litter boxes can be cleverly concealed inside an end table.
The nook under your stairs could be transformed into the
ultimate cozy pet bed or crate space.
Even food dishes can be mounted to the wall to declutter the
floor. Built-in pet spaces can be part of your décor — making your home cohesive
while still meeting the needs of your companion.
Pet-Friendly Fabrics & Furniture
With animals in the home, not just any fabric will do. Much
like flooring, the furniture you purchase should be easy to clean and stand up to
claws, fur, and messes. Here are some of the better choices for pet-friendly
furniture:
· Leather: Leather
is by far the easiest material to wipe off spills or muddy paw prints. It also
repels odors and is generally very resistant to staining. However, keep in mind
that not all leather is created equal. Opt for leather treated to improve
scratch resistance, or embrace the rugged, lived-in leather look.
· Microfiber: If
you’d like to stick to upholstered furniture, microfiber is a great option.
Designed for durability, this fabric will stand the test of time, even when
shared with your pets. It is stain-resistant and easy to clean (some covers are
even machine washable!).
· Velvet: Since
velvet is not woven, fur brushes off easily and pets won’t snag their claws on
a loose thread. Velvet is also stain and water-resistant — just try to catch
any spills before they sink in.
Storage Solutions
Don’t forget about pet supplies as you design your storage! Ensuring everything has a home makes it much easier to stay organized and clutter-free.
Pull-out drawers are great for storing large containers of pet food.
Dog walking stations in entryways or mudrooms can conveniently hold leashes and harnesses on hooks, and provide storage for plastic bags, treats, and other gear.
Finally, have a designated basket or bin for toys that is accessible but out of the flow of traffic to keep your pet occupied and your home tidy.
Your pets are part of your family, so it only makes sense to consider them in your new space! Contact us for more pet-friendly remodeling ideas, or to get started on your next project.
