a home shared with pets

a home should accommodate everyone who lives in it, including its animals. thoughtful materials and furniture selection can make everyday care easier while retaining a calm, considered interior.

for our melbourne residential interiors, practical requirements form part of the design brief from the beginning. flooring, upholstery and the placement of a pet’s bed deserve the same attention as the wider palette.

consider the floor finish

assess flooring against your pet’s habits, cleaning needs and the room’s use. timber, tile and other surfaces each have different limitations; no finish should be assumed to resist every scratch or stain.

review samples, slip resistance and the supplier’s maintenance guidance. colour and surface texture affect how marks and hair appear, so test the finish within the actual light rather than choosing from a small image.

select rugs for everyday use

a rug brings softness and defines a sitting area, but its weave and care requirements matter as much as its appearance. loose loops, fringes and delicate fibres may be less suitable for an animal that scratches or chews.

check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions before choosing a washable or indoor–outdoor design. natural fibres such as jute are not universally stain-resistant, and wet cleaning can damage some rugs. a secure underlay should also be considered.

integrate the practical details

give beds, feeding bowls and storage a considered place within the room. a quiet corner, washable cover and a material palette related to the surrounding furniture can make these everyday objects feel settled.

our furniture selection and interior styling services consider upholstery, proportion and maintenance alongside the character of the home. from our essendon studio, we help clients resolve an interior that is personal and comfortable to live in.