Pets & Furniture: Designing a Home That Works for Everyone

Hey friends! It’s Jess, and today I want to chat about something that comes up all the time with my clients—designing a home that works beautifully even with pets in the mix. I get it—our pets are family, but they can definitely test the durability of our furniture and decor. The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice style for function. Here’s how I like to approach pet-friendly design:

1. Splurge on Performance Fabrics

If you’re going to make one big investment in a pet-friendly home, let it be your sofas and chairs. Performance fabrics are made to resist stains, spills, and claws, and they clean up so much easier than traditional upholstery. A good performance fabric can extend the life of your furniture and keep it looking fresh.

2. Don’t Stress Over Rugs

I’m a big believer that rugs don’t need to be precious—especially with pets. Accidents happen, and rugs are usually the first to take the hit. Instead of splurging here, I recommend choosing washable or budget-friendly rugs you love but won’t cry over if they need replacing down the road.

3. Leather Can Be a Friend

People often worry about leather with pets, but hear me out: high-quality leather actually wears beautifully over time, even with pets in the house. Scratches can blend into a natural patina, and leather is easy to wipe clean.

4. Choose Pet-Friendly Finishes

Wood floors? Go for a harder finish that resists scratches. Throw blankets and slipcovers? Yes, please—easy to wash and swap out when needed. I love layering in machine-washable textures that still look cozy and pulled together.

5. Think Style + Lifestyle

At the end of the day, your home should reflect your style and your lifestyle. It’s about finding that balance between what looks beautiful and what actually works for the way you live day to day with pets.

Designing with pets doesn’t mean you have to give up your dream home. With a few smart swaps—like investing in performance fabrics and saving on rugs—you can create a space that’s both functional and fabulous.

xo,
Jess