Gone are the days of boring dog houses and unsightly cat litter boxes. In recent years, the term “Barkitecture” has emerged as a trendy way for pet owners to incorporate stylish and practical design elements into their homes that both they and their furry friends can enjoy.
Home design with pets front of mind!
Originally, Barkitecture referred to the design and construction of dog houses and other structures specifically for pets. However, today the term has evolved to encompass a wider range of design elements that cater to pet ownership, such as built-in feeding stations, pet-friendly flooring, and even pet-washing stations in bathrooms.
Pet-Friendly Homes: The Growing Popularity of Barkitecture
What’s driving the growing popularity of Barkitecture? It’s the fact that more and more pet owners view their animals as true members of the family. They want to ensure that every aspect of their home reflects this sentiment, from furniture choices to wall colors. And why shouldn’t they? After all, our furry companions provide us with unconditional love and affection, and deserve a comfortable and stylish space of their own.
The beauty of Barkitecture is that it doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Simple touches such as a cozy pet bed or a designated feeding area can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of a home. And for those who want to go all out, there are endless possibilities for incorporating pet-friendly design elements into every room of the house.
But Barkitecture isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s also about practicality. For example, pet-friendly flooring can be a great option for households with dogs or cats prone to accidents. And a built-in feeding station can help prevent spills and messes while keeping pet food and water bowls out of the way.
Tail-Wagging Worthy: The Most Desirable Pet-Friendly Home Features
When it comes to finding a new home, pet owners have unique needs and considerations. After all, our furry friends are part of our family and their comfort and safety are important factors to consider. Whether you have a dog, cat, fish, or any other pet, here are some of the most desirable pet-friendly home features to look for in your next home.
Dog Washing Station
According to Realtor Magazine, adding a dog wash station to your mudroom is a popular design feature for pet owners. This addition makes it easier to keep your furry friend clean and tidy after outdoor activities.
A dog wash station is typically a small area in the mudroom that features a shower or hose attachment, a non-slip surface, and storage for shampoos and towels. This setup is perfect for giving your dog a quick rinse without tracking muddy paw prints throughout the house.
Benefits of a dog wash station include convenience, cleanliness, and improved hygiene. Rather than struggling to wash your dog in the bathtub or outside with a hose, a dog wash station provides a designated area that is easy to use and clean. Plus, it can help prevent the spread of dirt and germs throughout your home.
When designing your dog wash station, consider the size of your pet and the amount of space you have available. You want to make sure your furry friend can comfortably fit in the space and that you have enough room to maneuver around them.
In addition to the practical benefits, a dog wash station can also add value to your home. Many homebuyers with pets are willing to pay a premium for pet-friendly features, making a dog wash station a wise investment.
Overall, adding a dog wash station to your mudroom is a smart and convenient design feature for pet owners. It provides an easy and efficient way to keep your furry friend clean and happy, while also adding value to your home.
Pet-Friendly Flooring
Barkitecture is not just about being aesthetically pleasing. Practical choices that are pet centric are also pet-friendly considerations for new home buyers and flooring is a definite consideration!
Pets can be hard on flooring, so look for homes with pet-friendly flooring options like hardwood, tile, or laminate. These materials are durable and easy to clean, making them ideal for pet owners. Avoid carpeting, which can trap pet hair and odors.
Fenced Yard
RELEVANT: Pet-proof your home with a fence
A fenced yard is a must-have for many pet owners. It allows your pet to have a safe and secure area to play and exercise without the risk of running away or getting lost. A fenced yard also provides peace of mind for pet owners and can even increase the value of your home.
In conclusion, Barkitecture is a trend that’s here to stay. As more and more pet owners continue to view their animals as members of the family, the demand for stylish and practical design elements that cater to pet ownership will only continue to grow. So whether you’re a dog lover, cat person, or anything in between, there’s never been a better time to incorporate Barkitecture into your home.
Barkitecture for Cats: Designing with Cat Shelves
AIA Triangle Events for Barkitecture
BOHO Bedroom Guide for Cat Ladies
Barkitecture’s Finest: Luxury Dog Houses
How Do I Make My Room Dog Friendly?
Why Is Kritter Kommunity Your Trusted Pet Partner?
Lisa Illman is the Founder of Kritter Kommunity, LLC. Growing up, Lisa had a poodle and parakeet as family pets. She currently has a tuxedo male cat and she has had him since he was a baby kitten; so Lisa knows well the kitten lifecycle, the teenage cat lifecycle and the adult cat lifecycle (he is currently 11 years old). Prior to her cat Finnegan, Lisa had two FIV positive cats for a decade. They inspired Lisa to invent a cat enclosure so they could safely sit outside and enjoy fresh air and sunshine. She brought the product to market and eventually designed a line of portable catios; they sold on Amazon, Skymall Catalogue, Wayfair and countless other websites. Lisa understands the passion for Barkitecture! Her experience being a pet parent coupled with her business development and product management experience make her a trusted pet enthusiast partner.
