The growing presence of pets in homes around the world is driving a new specialization in architecture: projects where pets are allowed.
But anyone who thinks that architecture for pets is limited to the adaptation of spaces is wrong. This type of architectural project requires specific technical knowledge to create safe, functional and pleasant environments for the most diverse pets.
In today’s article Casoca presents the main guidelines for designing spaces like this and list which elements cannot be excluded from the final project. I wait!
The proper choice of materials is essential in pet architecture, since these are the elements that will have to have constant contact with animals. Therefore, the project must consider factors such as durability and ease of maintenance.
- Technical porcelain stoneware with PEI 5 and a friction coefficient >0.5 is a good option for floors, which must be resistant to impacts and scratches.
- In outdoor environments, opting for polished concrete with anti-slip treatment guarantees greater durability and safety for the space.
As for wall coverings, high-resistance ceramics and PVC panels are recommended materials up to a height of 1.20 m, especially in areas with greater circulation: they facilitate cleaning and resist frequent humidity more easily!
As for finishes, choose water-based polyurethane paints for furniture and doors to protect them from scratches. While premium washable epoxy or acrylic paints are ideal for painting, it is important verify the absence of toxic compounds in its formulation.
Safety and accessibility are key elements when designing a space with pet-friendly architecture. Each species requires specific size considerations, so be aware of the particularities of your intended audience.
Loot
- For large dogs: maximum slope 10%, minimum width 100 cm and side railing 15 cm.
- For medium and small dogs: maximum slope 12%, minimum width 80 cm and side railing 10 cm
- For cats: steeper slope up to 30% with structured surface and rest points every 1.5 m
Window protection (minimum resistance 100 kg/m²)
- Dog screens: use 3×3 cm mesh
- Cat screens: Use 2x2cm mesh
- Poultry nets: use 1×1 cm mesh
Balcony protection
- Minimum height of the barrier for large dogs: 1.50 m
- Minimum height of the barrier for medium-sized dogs: 1.30 m
- Minimum height of the barrier for small dogs: 1.20 m
- Minimum height of the cat guard: total closure with mesh.
Planning ahead where each installation will be placed is critical to the success of any project, but particularly in pet-friendly landscaping due to the ease with which pets can access outlets, fire extinguishers, pipes and other installations.
In the plumbing part, consider include water points in strategic areassuch as fountains, gardens, balconies and service areas. Height-adjustable showers and thermostatic mixers are great for the bathroom.
The electrical project must also give priority to the installation of high sockets (1.20 m from the floor) or with child protection. This also applies to lighting, which must be designed considering the resting areas of pets, avoiding direct light in these spaces.
Another crucial point for projects in this niche are natural or mechanical cross ventilation systems. In closed areas it is necessary have good air flow and extractors with 8 air changes/hour are ideal for minimizing odors.
And for drainage, the ideal is to provide linear drains with small opening grates, to avoid accidents on wet floors and facilitate cleaning.
Furnishings in pet architecture must combine functionality with the aesthetics of the project, creating solutions that benefit both the animals and the owners.
Rest niches they can be integrated into shelves or under the stairs, with dimensions suitable for the breed: 60×80 cm for medium-sized dogs and 40×50 cm for cats. Already the the internal lining must be padded and removable for cleaning.
The feeding areas must take into account some specifications for each type of animal. Fixed power supplies for large dogs, for example, they must have a height from the ground of 45 cm, a tub diameter of 25 cm and a support surface of 60×60 cm.
- The dimensions indicated above must be adapted to smaller dimensions in the case of small and medium-sized dogs and cats.
And finally, storage space can include ventilated upper cabinets to store food and hygiene products.
Designing pet-friendly spaces goes beyond a market trend: it’s a commitment to animal welfare and the quality of life of multi-species families.
In pet architecture, every specific technique, no matter how detailed it may seem, has a direct impact on the daily lives of the animals and their owners.
When we develop technically accurate drawingsconsidering the peculiarities of each species, we create environments that promote physical and mental health, facilitate routine care and strengthen the bonds between humans and animals.
The architect dedicated to this specialty plays a vital role in building truly inclusive homes, where the needs of all residents are met with excellence.
Therefore, every well-executed project not only adds value to the property, but also contributes to creating a society that is more aware of the importance of pets in our lives.
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