In recent years, pets have become more than just companions—they’re family members who significantly influence our lifestyles and living spaces. With the surge in pet ownership, around 23 million American households added a pet, and homeowners are increasingly redesigning their homes to accommodate their furry friends’ needs.
The Rise of “Barkitecture”
A new trend, aptly named “Barkitecture,” has emerged, where homeowners remodel their living spaces with pets in mind. This goes beyond simple accommodations and ventures into elaborate design efforts to ensure pets feel comfortable and integrated into the home environment. Influencers showcase luxurious pet-friendly designs, highlighting how this trend is reshaping home interiors and even exteriors with lavish setups for pets.
Pets Influencing Home Renovations
According to a survey, nearly half consider their pets when upgrading their homes. About 48% of renovating pet owners take their pets into account during home improvements by incorporating pet-friendly materials and design elements. This includes selecting scratch-resistant flooring, integrating feeding stations, and creating designated play areas.
Popular Pet-Friendly Features
Homeowners are adding innovative features to cater to their pets, such as:
- Built-in Feeding Stations
Around 39% include custom feeding areas in kitchens or laundry rooms, keeping feeding times organized and spaces clutter-free with dedicated spots for their pets. - Outdoor Enclosures (“Catios”)
Approximately 34% of pet owners add outdoor enclosures, allowing pets to enjoy the outdoors safely by creating secure spaces. - Sleeping and Relaxation Areas
Custom-built sleeping nooks and relaxation zones make up about 21%, providing pets with their own comfortable spaces integrated seamlessly into home design.
Addressing Challenges in Pet Ownership
Pet ownership brings joy but also presents challenges like excess fur, dirt, and the need for organizing pet items. About 65% of pet owners deal with excessive fur, while 42% manage dirt from outdoor activities highlighting common pet-related issues. These challenges drive homeowners to seek practical solutions through home design.
Renovation Solutions for Pet Owners
Home renovation ideas for pet owners include:
- Pet Bathing Stations: Installing dedicated pet washing areas, such as walk-in showers or counter-height tubs, makes grooming easier and keeps pets clean.
- Mudrooms: Designing functional mudrooms near entryways helps manage muddy paws and stores pet supplies for better organization.
- Pet Sleeping Areas: Integrating dog beds into cabinetry offers a stylish alternative to bulky crates while enhancing home aesthetics.
Pets and Home Buying Decisions
The influence of pets extends to real estate, where pet-friendliness can sway buyer interest. Many prospective homeowners consider pets in their housing decisions, leading to demand for properties with pet-friendly features like scratch-resistant flooring and pet-friendly landscaping.
Real estate professionals, such as Suzanne Weinstein, effectively use pets in marketing materials to attract buyers by showcasing pet-friendly properties.
Ensuring Pet Well-being During Renovations
Home renovations can be stressful for pets. Strategies to mitigate stress include:
- Acclimating Pets to Changes
Introducing pets to carriers and new routines before construction begins to reduce mental discomfort. - Using Calming Products
Utilizing stress-relieving pheromone products helps keep pets calm during disruptions for their emotional well-being. - Maintaining Routines
Keeping consistent feeding and exercise schedules provides pets with a sense of normalcy amid changes.
Professional Assistance in Pet-Friendly Design
Many homeowners seek professional help for pet-friendly renovations. About 86% hire professionals for projects involving flooring, landscaping, and built-in features to ensure quality and expertise. Companies like GreatBuildz assist homeowners in finding reliable contractors for seamless renovation experiences.
Conclusion
Pets profoundly impact how we design and renovate our homes. By incorporating pet-friendly features and considering their needs, homeowners create harmonious living spaces that cater to all family members. This trend reflects the evolving relationship between humans and their pets, emphasizing comfort, convenience, and well-being for our beloved animal companions.
