MY MEDALLION
Designing an apartment with your beloved pets in mind is a rewarding endeavor that enhances both your living space and your pet’s well-being. Whether you have a playful pup or a curious feline companion, these tips will help you create an environment that caters to both your design sensibilities and your furry friend’s needs.
Choose Pet-Friendly Materials
When choosing furniture and other materials for your home opt for choices that can withstand the wear and tear of pet paws and claws. Durable and stain-resistant flooring options like hardwood, laminate, or tile are great choices. Leather or microfiber sofas are easy to clean and less likely to collect pet hair compared to heavily textured fabrics. These materials that easily trap fur, such as shaggy rugs, should be avoided and swapped out for easy-to-clean area rugs that can be shaken out or machine washed. Furniture with removable and washable covers to easily manage fur and accidents are an added bonus!
Create Cozy Spaces
Pets love having their own cozy spaces to relax and retreat to. Incorporate comfortable pet beds, blankets, and cushions in various corners of your apartment. Consider designing a dedicated nook near a window, where your pet can bask in the sunlight and watch the world outside. A dedicated space for your pet also means all their toys and accessories are kept neatly in one place. You may even like to invest in stylish storage solutions such as baskets and shelves to store their belongings.
Non-Toxic Decor
Ensure any plants or decorative elements in your apartment are pet-safe. Many common houseplants, such as lilies and oleanders can be toxic to animals if ingested. Certain candles and scents can also be harmful to pets and string lights are always a hazard for inquisitive cats. We suggest using websites such as this one, which lists pet-friendly plants (and toxic plants to avoid) that can add a touch of greenery to your space. Using soy-based candles and staying away from string-like decor will also ensure your space does not pose a risk to your furry friends.
Create a Dedicated Grooming Station
Having a designated area for grooming and bathing your pet will make your life a lot easier. A bath or washing basin, a washable mat and a small shelf for grooming supplies will make the process more convenient for you and less stressful for your pet. A dedicated washing space means a cleaner pet and subsequently a cleaner apartment!
Incorporate Interactive Elements
Keeping your pet’s mind stimulated by incorporating interactive elements in your design will help stop them chewing stray shoes or scratching at the sofa. Puzzle feeders, scratching posts and interactive toys can provide mental and physical enrichment. Cats, in particular, will enjoy vertical spaces such as cat trees that provide climbing opportunities and perching spots. A stimulated mind means less opportunities for destruction!
By incorporating these thoughtful design elements into any of Medallion’s pet-friendly properties, you’ll not only create a comfortable and stylish living space but also a haven that is comfortable and exciting for your pets.
