Page 105 - SOUTHERN OREGON MAGAZINE SPRING 2022

OUR FURRY

HOUSEMATES

adapting our homes for our pets

krissy millner, owner, terra firma home

Terra Firma Home | 309 E. Main St, Medford
541-770-2728 | www.terrafirmahome.com

“Our perfect companions never

have fewer than four feet”

- Colette

s I write this issue, the levels of pet ownership and adop- simple as getting soft, washable throws to toss over a sofa for cuddling.
tion have skyrocketed thanks to people spending extended Many times, we have ordered a few extra yards of fabric with a custom
periods of time at home. And in my business, this means sofa order and had it hemmed as a tailored, matching, washable piece,
Amore and more people are adapting their homes to accom- which can then tuck over the cushion. This is great for a modern, non-
modate the pets they love. fussy look. And of course, you can never go wrong with slipcovered
upholstery in a washable, natural fabric.
Many clients ask us to consider their pets when we compose our
designs. This is one of the most common requests during our inter- Stain-resistant and hard-wearing materials are key when it comes to
views and initial meetings. In fact, there are some amazing techniques, interior design with pets in mind. The last thing you want is your puppy
products and solutions that can help you create a beautiful space for having an accident on a rare, antique rug. Materials that are easy to wipe
you and your fur babies where everyone can comfortably coexist. clean, odor resistant and stain-proof will be your saving grace if and
when an accident happens. Indoor/Outdoor rugs can be a great choice
SPACE AND MATERIALS in a living room for an active, busy family and pet-friendly lifestyle.

Planning and considering your space are key to seamless design with In terms of natural fibers, think leather, quality linens, heavy cotton
pets in mind. Think about what access you want your furry friends to textures and wool. The key is fiber construction – the tighter the fibers,
have around the house. Are you a “no pets on the furniture” kind of the more resistant it will be to stains and odors. If you prefer to opt for
home? Or more relaxed about who you cozy up with on a cold win- synthetic materials, Nylon, Olefin, and Acrylic are also good choices.
ter night? These kinds of boundaries will help you design your space There are incredible advances in stain resistant, washable fabrics (even
accordingly. For example, will your pet’s bed be part of the bedroom, linen these days) but know that there is no fabric or leather that will
hidden away in the laundry, or do you need to integrate it into a living eliminate or repel kitty’s claws, or a pup’s active nails jumping onto
area so it’s safe and cozy for them, and not disruptive to you? Consider furniture. And in this realm, you must relax, don’t stress. The enjoy-
the location, the function and the style you envision for your home. ment and comfort of your pet is the most important aspect! People ask
me all the time if a fabric will be okay with their cat. The answer is: If
Thankfully, there are very stylish pet beds now available with wash- kitty likes to scratch, then, nope, it’s not gonna stay perfect!
able covers. When you know your lifestyle with your pet, it may be as

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