I’m an interior designer – my tips to ace the pet-friendly ‘barkitecture’ trend, including a ‘no-brainer paint choice

A HOME DECOR fan has shared their tips for an animal-friendly interior space.

They shared design methods to nail the barkitecture trend and the best paint choice for your pup.

Furniturebox product development lead Laura Rich shared simple tips to elevate your home when you have pets.

She also explained how to easily lean into the “barkitecture” decor trend with some useful cleaning hacks.

PRACTICAL PICK

“It might seem like a no-brainer, but grey is a popular choice for pet homes for a reason,” Rich said.

The reason why is that it is a practical color that doesn’t highlight fur and helps hide the odd stain.

She also said grey is also a “fantastic base color” for almost any home decor.

“You can dress a practical grey sofa with colorful and patterned cushions for accents of your chosen color palette,” she suggested.

DURABLE DETAILS

Rich revealed which fabrics were the most durable and easy to clean for upholstery.

“Short pile rugs and short nap polyester velvet are great for pets as they’re durable, and fur or mud won’t sink into the fibers as easily,” she said.

They also help fur “glide off”.

Rich added that faux leather is another good option to wipe clean though it can be scratched.

It’s a much better option for animals who don’t like to claw things.

FURNITURE FIX

Rich also shared how the right furniture can upgrade the room and works well to conceal pet problems.

“Select furniture that sits on legs, as this makes them much easier to clean beneath,” she suggested.

Also, try a short leg because it doesn’t allow enough space for a pet to hide underneath but does allow for a vacuum head or broom.

She said it will make “the world of difference” when keeping pet hair under control.

FLOOR FINISH

When decorating your home, opt for more practical flooring that can easily be wiped clean.

Rich said uncarpeted floors are great for easy cleaning when you have pets, but there’s a better alternative than solid hardwood.

Wood can absorb smells that linger, she said.

“Vinyl and laminate flooring is also really easy to clean fur from, as well as any accidents or wet muddy paw prints,” she explained.

These options are also slightly padded with underlay so they are easier on tiny paws and claws.