Remodeling with Your Pet in Mind
Pet-friendly home remodeling is a recent but very popular trend, especially among singles and empty nesters. These folks rightly regard their furry companions as members of the family, and as long as a remodel is in the works, they figure why not add some home renovations for pets as well. Home remodeling for pets gives homeowners a chance to incorporate some innovative decorating ideas to help the home stand out when it’s time to sell. These ideas can also be cleverly disguised and used for purposes other than pampering pets! Here are some pet-friendly home remodeling ideas that you can incorporate in your remodeling plans:
Indoor pet retreats
Every pet likes to have its own defined space. So as long as you’re doing some home renovations, consider creating and delegating a little nook somewhere as a pet-friendly home remodeling feature.
Disguised litter boxes
No one likes the look of a litter box and it seems that no matter where it is placed in the home, it looks awkward. However, there are some very cleverly disguised litter boxes available now in the shapes of potted plants and bathroom cabinets, as well as cat doors that lead to hidden areas.
Heated floors
The reason pets like to park at the front of the fridge is that the floor is warmed by the fridge’s compressor. The simplest and least expensive solution is to place a heated mat in your pet’s favorite location to hang out.
Platform beds
There are quite a few platform beds for pets disguised as furniture that can be easily incorporated into any decorating layout.
Cat ramps and trees
Since cats love to climb, consider having your carpenter install some cat ramps leading to corner platforms and, if room allows, perhaps add a climbing tree as well.
Dog overlooks
If a second-floor loft is part of your remodeling plans, consider cutting one or two dog overlooks into the wall so your dog can monitor the goings-on from a lofty perch.
Wood floors or high-end linoleum
This is a matter of choice but since wood floors are prone to scratching, you may wish to go for the linoleum, especially if you own larger dogs.
Storage rooms for people who purchase pet supplies in bulk
A first-floor laundry room is ideal for storing pet supplies bought in bulk to save money. Ask your carpenter to expand a room and add additional shelving if necessary.
Built-in benches with removable covers
A sunny nook is a natural spot for a built-in bench and since your pet will think so too, protect the wood’s finish with removable covers that add color to the room.
Stain-resistant fabrics and carpeting
Stain-resistant fabric on the furniture and stain-resistant carpeting in a home with pets is simply a matter of practicality and definitely worth the extra expense.
Adding home renovations for pets in your remodeling plans present unique challenges and opportunities for architects and contractors. If they are pet lovers, too, they may relish the chance to make pet-friendly home remodeling part of their repertoire and add some other unique ideas as well!