5 ideas for custom designing pet-friendly spaces

Even the family dog (or cat) appreciates a dedicated place to rest, play, or call home. Whether it’s a cozy nook in the living room or an organized play area in the garage, we can help you create functional spaces for every member of your family.

Here are five ideas to consider, from indoor pet zones to basement play pads.

1. Make room in any room
More likely than not, there’s an area in an existing room that can be repurposed. We’ve found the most common are laundry rooms and mudrooms (since they’re already built for utility, and there’s less concern about mess), or living rooms and bedrooms. Here’s how to create a pet-friendly spot in those areas:

Laundry rooms and mudrooms: Create a hidden litter box solution, cleverly concealed behind a lower cabinet door with entry. Have a playful puppy who discovers every puddle? Install a pet washing station for those muddy paws.

Living rooms and bedrooms: Don’t stress about disrupting the decor. Custom-configured drawers or integrated baskets can store leashes, toys, and pet grooming supplies, while a pull-out shelf becomes an instant feeding station. A custom side table can double as a sleeping crate without compromising style.

2. Create dedicated pet zones
Working with an open floor plan? The trick here is to create pet zones that blend seamlessly into the space and offer dual functionality. A custom window seat or bench seat can include an open cubby below for a pet bed. Likewise, a media center can include pet-friendly spaces in the lower cabinets.

3. Optimize storage for pet essentials
Pets come with a lot of stuff, but adding adequate storage to your furry friend’s area will make both pet care and routines easier. Incorporate pull-out drawers for food bags, hooks for leashes, and drawer inserts for catnip and dog training tools. Labelled bins and baskets within custom cabinets can further streamline organization, making it easy to access items when needed and hide them away afterward.

4. Bigger issues
Sometimes, a laundry room or bedroom just won’t cut it. If you have a large dog that requires a lot of exercise, consider rethinking your use of the basement or garage. In these larger spaces, you can truly optimize with custom storage — think cabinets, cubbies, shelving, and more — that keeps everything organized while leaving your pet plenty of space to play.

5. Don’t forget safety and comfort
Your pet should love their new space, but it should also be safe and comfortable. Use non-toxic materials, ensure secure enclosures, and avoid sharp edges in any custom additions. For older pets, opt for ramps or non-slip surfaces to aid mobility and help them access toys and food easily.

Ready to design a pet-friendly space in your home?