Design Tip: Love Your Pets!
Feb 18th 2021
Choosing the right furniture for pet owners doesn’t mean sacrificing style. With the right selections, you can have furniture that balances design with practicality while withstanding pet wear and tear. Our beloved designer, Emily, has some ideas on how to make purposeful furniture fabric selections that work with your style and your fur-covered family members. And she knows from experience:
“When I was a child, my dog was an outside dog. She loved the winter, being a husky, but all that fur demanded cuddles; preferably cuddled up on a sofa! Now, as an adult, I have an indoor black lab and she will steal your spot on the sofa the second you get up to grab a refreshment. Little sneak!”
Sample of Performance Fabrics
1. Performance Fabrics for Pet Owners
“Because my pup is black, that fur would be noticeable on any cream fabric I would ever select.”
The best furniture fabric for pet owners includes performance fabrics such as Crypton Home and Revolution, which are stain-resistant and easy to clean. These fabrics hold up well against fur, dirt, and claws, making them ideal for any household with pets.
When selecting furniture for pet owners, consider matching fabric color to your pet’s fur. For example, if you have a black dog, opt for darker fabrics to hide fur, or choose multi-tonal fabrics to help conceal dirt and hair. Emily, a design expert, recommends selecting fabrics that complement your home’s overall color scheme while being durable enough to handle your pets' activities.
Tip: Avoid delicate materials like velvet or silk, as they can show wear more quickly, and fur tends to cling to them. Stick to tightly woven fabrics or synthetic blends that resist snagging and are easier to clean.
“If you notice your pup or feline friend’s fur on one color of clothing more than others, take note of that color and avoid it on your sofa or another fabric-covered piece of furniture.”
For example, do you have a white pup? Light colors all the way! You won’t notice shedding fur on a day-to-day basis – and you won’t be breaking out the lint roller every 15 minutes.
Performance Fabrics from Revolution
2. Durable Furniture Materials
Beyond fabric, the best furniture material for pet owners includes durable options like leather, microfiber, and coated fabrics. Leather, while more prone to scratches, can develop a charming patina over time and is easy to wipe clean. Microfiber is another excellent choice for pet owners, as it resists stains and is also easy to maintain.
For furniture for pet owners that balances durability and design, hardwood or metal frames for tables and chairs provide sturdiness, while pieces like storage ottomans or side tables with hidden compartments offer both function and storage space for pet toys or essentials.
“My favorites are the ‘Coconuts’ from Crypton Home and the ‘Tilly’s’ from Revolution. Each comes in a variety of colors. All have a wonderful feel as well variations in color, making them easy to conceal what our four-legged friends leave behind.”
- ‘Tilly’ from Revolution
-
3. Pet-Friendly Furniture Design
When it comes to design, multi-functional furniture is key. Ottomans that double as storage solutions can hide away toys or grooming tools, while coffee tables with drawers provide discreet spaces for pet supplies. Investing in sturdy accent pieces like side tables and armchairs with strong legs will ensure your furniture withstands the wear from active pets.
Look for furniture for pet owners with a combination of high-quality materials and thoughtful design to ensure both your home’s aesthetic and your pets’ needs are met.
4. Furniture for Pet-Friendly Spaces
If you're working with small spaces, multi-functional furniture that includes built-in storage for pet items or durable flooring options will help maintain a clean, organized space. Hardwood, tile, or vinyl floors are better suited for pets than carpets, as they resist scratches and are easier to clean.
Finally, don’t forget to integrate your pets into your home decor. Adding cozy pet beds or designated spots for them can prevent them from taking over your seating areas while ensuring they have a comfortable place of their own.
Great Pet Owners Can Still Have Great Design
Choosing the best furniture for pet owners means finding the right balance between aesthetics and durability. With performance fabrics, durable materials, and well-thought-out designs, you can create a home that’s both stylish and pet-friendly. Look for furniture for pet owners that suits your lifestyle, from scratch-resistant finishes to easy-to-clean fabrics, ensuring that your furry friends are part of your home's overall design.