When designing a custom home, it’s easy to get caught up thinking about kitchens, living rooms, and how your family will move through the space. However, if you have pets, you know they’re part of the family, and their needs can influence how a home works. Little touches for comfort, safety, and fun can make a huge difference in their day-to-day lives. If your household includes a furry friend or two, here are seven pet-friendly design features worth including as you build your home.
Open Floor Plan for More Running Space
Pets, especially dogs, love to sprint and explore, but narrow hallways and tiny rooms can make it tricky. An open floor plan gives your furry friends plenty of room to move freely while still keeping the home functional for family life. If you’re upsizing your home and aren’t sure how to make the most of a larger space, consider opening up living and dining areas. It can create the perfect playground for pets and a more inviting environment for humans.
When designing a layout like this, it helps to work with a reputable contractor like Excel Builders. They can customize your plan carefully, whether you’re building a new custom home or tearing down walls in an existing one. The result is a home that feels airy and spacious, where pets can run safely and the family enjoys a smooth flow from room to room.
Durable, Scratch-Resistant Flooring
Claws, nails, and energetic paws can quickly wear down standard hardwood floors, so choose durable, scratch-resistant flooring instead. Look at options like luxury vinyl or tile. Sealed hardwood also helps maintain a polished look while standing up to daily pet activity.
Plan high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms with these materials in mind. Pets will have room to run around without you worrying about scratches. You’ll also love the easy clean-up and maintenance.
Windows with Seating Areas
Pets love sunlight. They like observing the outside world. But standard windows can feel out of reach or uncomfortable to look out of for pets, especially when they’re too tall. Installing windows with seats provides a sunny perch for cats or dogs. They can watch the world while staying cozy indoors.
Install built-in benches cushioned with pet-friendly fabric. Place these in living areas or bedrooms where pets naturally linger. You can benefit from these spots, as they make for the perfect reading and lounging spot.
Built-In Bed Spaces
Pets deserve their own cozy corners, but floor beds and mats can clutter a home. Built-in bed spaces for fur babies offer a designated nook that integrates seamlessly into furniture or cabinetry. Carve out spaces under staircases or cabinets. Add cushions, blankets, and your pets’ favorite toys. This setup creates comfort in your home for your beloved pets. Keeping bedding contained to one spot also makes daily cleaning easier for the whole family.
Soft-Close Cabinets and Drawers
Slamming cabinets can startle pets and create noise stress. Installing soft-close cabinets and drawers keeps the home peaceful and protects pets from anxiety and paws pinched by accident. Humans also enjoy the smooth, quiet operation, especially during busy mornings, making the kitchen feel more orderly.
This subtle upgrade may seem small. But it’s a crucial detail for nervous dogs and those that love to play near cabinets. It’s a thoughtful, intentional design choice that keeps your fur babies safe and calm, and the home less noisy for everyone else.
Add a Pet Washing Station
Bath time in a standard tub can be messy if your dog is large and energetic. A built-in dog washing station in your laundry room or garage simplifies baths and keeps comfy during grooming. You benefit because there’s no more wrestling dogs in the bathtub or worrying about wet floors and splashes everywhere.
Design this washing station with a slightly raised basin. Handheld shower attachments will also give you the most flexibility during shower time. Non-slip flooring would also be excellent. Add nearby storage for shampoos, towels, and brushes to keep everything organized.
A Secure Outdoor Play Space
Pets need outdoor activity, but not every yard is safe. A dog-friendly lawn with secure fencing, shaded areas, and open space lets furry friends run freely without risking escape. You benefit too, because you can relax and enjoy outdoor activities without constantly worrying about their safety.
Plan fenced zones with durable grass, and add small play features like ramps or tunnels. Include a seating nook nearby so you can supervise comfortably. This creates a fun and safe outdoor area that supports exercise for your beloved pets.
Endnote
Adding these pet-friendly features to your new home helps everyone enjoy the space more comfortably, whether human or four-legged. When you plan ahead for your pets, they’ll feel right at home, wagging tails and cuddles guaranteed.
