Designing Around Pets

It goes without saying that pet owners love their animals. But for those of us who have four-legged friends underfoot, there are always a few things that we could do without. Smelly litter boxes, ugly pet beds, unsightly carpet-covered cat structures, and fur-covered cushions are just a few items on the list. We all deal, because, well … it’s worth it. But fear not fellow animal lovers — there are solutions to our troubles. Yup, you can still be stylish without sacrificing any of your animal’s comfort. Check out these pet problems that were solved with design (on Houzz.com).

1. Furry, unattractive beds. This built-in cushion is a nifty way to incorporate your furry companion’s equally furry bed into a neat little hideaway. You can customize it to match your decor, and it keeps the pet hair (the bane of any dog/cat owner’s existence) in the nook.
Traditional Kitchen by COOK ARCHITECTURAL Design Studio

COOK ARCHITECTURAL Design Studio

Of course, a mini-window seat is another great options for cat and dog owners. Cushion the area with a washable pad, and have a spare one on hand for when guests come over.

Farmhouse Kitchen Shirley Corwin

HOUZZ.com

2. Containing the dry food mess.These home owners came up with a sensible solution to control the mess that comes with dog food (and three dogs!). A built-in dog food station prevents bowls from tipping over and food from spilling on to the floor or into water bowls. The drawers above the eating station can conveniently house dog food and treats.

Traditional Kitchen by Artisan Kitchens Inc.

Artisan Kitchens Inc.

3. Dealing with the dog door.Deciding where to place the dog and/or cat door can be a decor statement in itself. Should you install it in a door, glass door, window, or wall? I like how these owners placed the door directly under this long window. The space looks like it was made for the cat door, but it isn’t a blatant part of the home’s design.
Contemporary Kitchen by Buckminster Green LLC

Buckminster Green LLC

Now this might be the most innovative dog door I’ve ever seen. I’m guessing that this leads the dog in and out of the house—so smart! Plus, the fact that it looks like a miniature version of the doors in the home is adorable.
Dining Room by FrontPorch

FrontPorch

4. Hiding the litter box. The litter box is by far the major downside of having a cat. Figuring out where to put this thing so your cat isn’t doing its business in front of everyone and the smell doesn’t permeate the house can be quite a challenge. The bathroom ends up being a safe choice for most home-owners, and I love how this built-in area makes the litter box nearly invisible.
Transitional Bathroom by Artisan Kitchens Inc.

Artisan Kitchens Inc.

A laundry room is a good place for the litter box. It’s not occupied as frequently as the bathrooms, and installing it into a cabinet with a cat door makes it easy for your cat to get inside, and convenient for you to clean.
Midcentury Laundry Room by Klopf Architecture

Klopf Architecture