If you’re a pet owner who’s spent time on Pinterest this year, you may have come across the term “barkitecture.” It’s pretty much what it sounds like: a cute term for pet-focused architecture or home design. And it’s not just for dogs!
Pets are a big part of our lives. They’re our friends, sometimes our emotional support, and they hold space in our hearts and our homes.
Food. Leashes. Litter boxes. Aquariums. No matter what kind of pet you have, there are storage needs related to their care. But how do you integrate these items into your home in a way that resonates with your style?
Here are some pet storage tips that will keep your home clean and your furry (or not so furry) friend happy and healthy!
Storing Food
Food storage is an important factor in pet ownership. And while it may seem easier just to leave everything in the container it came in, you can save space and increase shelf life by storing food in airtight containers.
You can also match to your style this way. Store in clear glass for vintage chic, or in opaque pottery for a sleeker, more modern look. Or if you don’t want to worry about matching containers to your décor, hide your pet supplies away in closed cabinets. This is also a great option for cat owners, who may need to contend with shelf-scaling felines who view your storage system as their Mount Everest.
If you don’t like leaving food bowls lying around, an open space under a cabinet or kitchen island provides a place for larger bowls. Smaller animals can eat from containers hidden away in a bottom drawer.
Pet Supplies
If you have a mudroom or an entryway “drop zone,” pet supplies—like people supplies—can be kept there. Leashes, winter or summer booties, and other outdoor gear can go on hooks or in drawers. And if you have the space for it, a free-standing all-in-one pet storage area is a great option for keeping everything together and easy to access.
For an all-in-one, consider also making space to hold other items that are related to pet care like vet papers and medication. The latter should be kept in a secure cabinet well out of reach of curious paws or noses.
An all-in-one station can even hold space for your pet to sleep. A dog bed tucked under a counter or a cat bed secreted away on a shelf are a great way to keep your pet out from underfoot while they’re resting.
Sleeping Spaces
There are plenty of other options for stylish pet sleeping and living spaces too.
Cabinet units can accommodate aquariums or terrariums for fish and reptiles. Or provide a base for a small animal cage with drawers and cabinets that hold food, bedding, and other supplies.
For large dogs, your sleep and storage station can be built up around the crate. Anxious or easily overstimulated dogs may feel more secure tucked in among the coverage cabinets can offer. Dogs that prefer a view should be less closed in.
If you have multiple pets, a multi-story unit can hold beds for all, even if they’re not the same species. Try a dog bed underneath and a cat bed higher up. And label your containers so no one’s food gets mixed up.
Custom “Barkitecture”
There are many options for pet storage. If you’re wondering how to work all of the items on your list into your household pet station, there’s an easy solution: Let us work on it for you!
Closet & Storage Concepts of Charlotte can design and build custom solutions for your North Carolina home. Contact us today for a free consultation, and consult with our designers on a storage system that will make you and your pet jump for joy!
Photo Credit © SeventyFour