1. Primer and Paint! Choose paint that is easy to clean and non-toxic (in case of chewing.) I advise darker colors that will not show the mud easily if your dog likes to get mud-spattered on stormy days. Of course if your dog has light colored fur and sheds frequently, a lighter more neutral color might be more practical. Be sure and use a drop cloth to protect your carpet unless you are planning on tearing it out and replacing it immediately. If you are covering up paneling with paint, always mud and tape first! It is virtually impossible to mask otherwise! Make sure the paint is completely dry and fumes totally aired out before allowing your pet back in the room. I would go as far as suggesting a pet sitter for a weekend paint job or any other large home improvement project.
2. Carpeting. Does your worn out old carpet need replacing? Choose a complimentary color with the same ideas in mind as above. Indoor/Outdoor carpet is a great option for dog owners. Do your research. There are companies that actually cater to dog owners now using fabrics and materials that are sturdy and easy to clean without compromising aesthetics.
3. Flooring. Sturdy tiles or hardwood floors work best. Linoleum is just too tempting to chew on and falls apart easily.
4. Furniture. It depends on your dogs. Do they like to chew? Rattan is probably a poor choice. I recommend pet friendly slipcovers! Your furniture stays protected and when they get dirty or hairy, just pull them off and wash them! So easy! Plus slipcovers are trendy right now and come in a variety of colors and styles to suit your tastes. They are easy to switch out later if you change your mind. Far less expensive then buying a whole new couch and chairs!
5. Window Treatments. Again choose sturdy, easy to wash materials in colors that compliment your walls and floor.
6. Lighting. I advise lighting that is off the floor, as in sconces, lamps on tables or stands (with cords carefully tucked away or hidden in some fashion), and or hung from the ceiling. Floor lamps get knocked over easily, especially if you have large dogs, and the cords are right within reach to chew on.
7. Art. I naturally advocate dog-themed art. Choose a style you love. There are many talented artists out there whose work represents a large variety of styles. From off-the-wall to photographic realism, there is something out there for you. Giclee prints are very €in€ right now. Choose mats and frames that go along with the scheme you have going if possible. Sometimes an eclectic mix is rather cool and can be pulled off very well. Trust your instincts and have fun with it! Remember, you are the designer, and you are the one who has to live with it, so choose colors and art that you will love and enjoy. There are no set rules to design, no matter what anyone will tell you! I personally choose art that is bold in color, vintage or retro in style, and a little on the whimsical side.
8. Not a D-I-Y type? You can always hire professionals for any of these jobs. I would shop around for people who cater to pet owners if at all possible.
2. Carpeting. Does your worn out old carpet need replacing? Choose a complimentary color with the same ideas in mind as above. Indoor/Outdoor carpet is a great option for dog owners. Do your research. There are companies that actually cater to dog owners now using fabrics and materials that are sturdy and easy to clean without compromising aesthetics.
3. Flooring. Sturdy tiles or hardwood floors work best. Linoleum is just too tempting to chew on and falls apart easily.
4. Furniture. It depends on your dogs. Do they like to chew? Rattan is probably a poor choice. I recommend pet friendly slipcovers! Your furniture stays protected and when they get dirty or hairy, just pull them off and wash them! So easy! Plus slipcovers are trendy right now and come in a variety of colors and styles to suit your tastes. They are easy to switch out later if you change your mind. Far less expensive then buying a whole new couch and chairs!
5. Window Treatments. Again choose sturdy, easy to wash materials in colors that compliment your walls and floor.
6. Lighting. I advise lighting that is off the floor, as in sconces, lamps on tables or stands (with cords carefully tucked away or hidden in some fashion), and or hung from the ceiling. Floor lamps get knocked over easily, especially if you have large dogs, and the cords are right within reach to chew on.
7. Art. I naturally advocate dog-themed art. Choose a style you love. There are many talented artists out there whose work represents a large variety of styles. From off-the-wall to photographic realism, there is something out there for you. Giclee prints are very €in€ right now. Choose mats and frames that go along with the scheme you have going if possible. Sometimes an eclectic mix is rather cool and can be pulled off very well. Trust your instincts and have fun with it! Remember, you are the designer, and you are the one who has to live with it, so choose colors and art that you will love and enjoy. There are no set rules to design, no matter what anyone will tell you! I personally choose art that is bold in color, vintage or retro in style, and a little on the whimsical side.
8. Not a D-I-Y type? You can always hire professionals for any of these jobs. I would shop around for people who cater to pet owners if at all possible.
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