The following is from – Design Pro News:

“Interior design for today’s modern family usually encompasses all family members opinions, lifestyles, and tastes.  However, one member who may get left out of the design process,( albeit still very much a part of the family dynamic), is your pet.  Whether it’s a scrappy dog, a long-haired cat, or a squeaky Guinea Pig; the entire family will reap the rewards with a pet friendly interior design.  Although some pets can be a bit more challenging than others when it comes to having their needs met, most of them require the basic essentials in regards to living comfortably within the home; a place for their toys, an area that is designed for eating, somewhere to store supplies, and a place to rest their furry heads.  Just as the rest of the family members make their presence known by playing the music too loud, heaping their close on the floor, leaving a trail of muddy footprints throughout the house… your pet will also need to be looked after in regards to odors and stains and other damage that is a direct result of having a pet indoors.  Thankfully, there are many strategies that can be used when considering an indoor Design with a Pet in mind.  With a few general ideas that you can easily implement into the interior design process, you’ll be able to create a comfortable sanctuary for all family members, while still keeping all of the homes beauty, charm and style intact.

Having wall-to-wall carpeting when you have furry pets generally makes it tougher to stay on top of the cleanliness.   Fur and pet oils, among other body fluids, get trapped within the carpet creating a breeding ground for odors and bacteria.  Consider using  large, patterned area rugs that complement your home decor.  You can easily clean under them, so that nothing gets trapped below the carpet, and the pattern will help hide any stains.  It’s also less expensive to get rid of the area rug if it’s been soiled, than to replace a room full of carpet.  Hardwood, tile and ceramic also work nicely.

Consider the texture of your walls if you have pets that roam freely.  A highly textured wall will act as a magnet for pet fur when your cat or dog rubs against it. Another idea to keep in mind when painting the walls is to choose a semi gloss or satin paint over a flat finish, which will aid in keeping the fur on the animal and not on the wall.

Just like kids, the pets will also be tracking in mud and muck after being outside.  Installing tile or wood in the entryway will help tackle the problem with ease. Keeping the doormat outside the door will also help trap debris before entering.  Utilizing a small cupboard, closet, bench or other piece of furniture to hide pet leashes, pet wipes, doggie treats and other pet essentials, will also create harmony at the front or back door.

You may be in love with that gorgeous silk drenched sofa, but your kitty on the other hand will think nothing of shredding the fabric to pieces.  Choose fabrics and furniture that not only hides any fur that may get left behind, but also won’t warrant your pet having the need to use it as a scratching post or a chew toy.  A smooth tapestry works well.  If you just can’t part with your sofa think slip covers.  Also take note of the exposed wood on your furniture; wicker, rattan and sisal will serve as a teething toy for your new puppy, whereas metal or chrome will keep them searching for another source.

Who doesn’t love a good view of the beautiful outdoors?  Your pets are no exception.  Kitties will love to sun themselves on the windowsill and dogs want to know who just drove up in the driveway.  Although there are some fabulous window treatments for all styles of interior design, consider using light weight, sheer fabric.  If you choose blinds, keep them pulled up when the animals are roaming freely in the home as to avoid finding them on the floor when you return.

Entertainment, we can all use a little, right?  Your pet is no different…. when designing your home give consideration to were your furry loved ones will play.  Keeping their toys easily accessible – but out of view, is just another way to help blend their needs within your home decor.  Baskets, cabinetry, covered benches are just a few ideas that will help you achieve a neat and tidy living area while still attending to the family members”me” time.

When it comes to designing the home of your dreams to include all family members, two legged and four, consulting with a professional Interior Designer will provide you with a wealth of information and knowledge to help you achieve a home that reflects everyone’s personality – even the ones that say “woof”.”

As long as you are here please see  our “Best Picks” page for more information about Family Pet Animal Hospital in Chicago and other good places to go, as well as our “Sale & Event’ page on the toolbar above.  Luxe interiors + design Magazine has placed us on their National Gold List for our work on a stunning & graceful Geneva Lake Home and we invite you to look at the article by clicking on the Luxe icon when you get to this page. 

We look forward to using this vehicle to bring our friends news, tips and information about great people, places and things as we discover them. We encourage you to use this vehicle to interact with us; tell us what you like or just say hello.