Stacey Sibley, Creative Director of leading interior designers Alexander James Interior Design, offers her top tips for transforming your home into a 'purrfect' sanctuary for your four-legged friend in 2018.

1. Fur-Free Upholstery 

Think carefully about the fabrics you choose and how likely they are to gather fur. Avoid: Fabrics that are a magnet for pet hair e.g. velvet, mohair, corduroy, velour or chenille. Steer clear of any delicate materials that could be damaged by your adorable little friend e.g. silk.  Opt for: Smooth tapestries, leathers and synthetic fibres. Invest in quality textiles that will withstand the test of those claws!

2. Furniture - Not Toys

Beware of any exposed wood on your furniture - an excitable puppy may see it as their new favourite teething toy! Metal and chrome will leave your would-be teether searching for another toy.  

3. Squeaky Clean Flooring 

In light of the inevitable rainy, muddy days and those early months when your puppy/kitten is still learning to toilet-train, we highly recommend flooring that is easy to clean! Avoid: Hardwood floors that dent/scratch easily and require rapid cleaning should a puddle appear (hardwood floors stain very quickly)! If you are absolutely set of those beautiful wooden floors, then opt for harder woods e.g. mahogany or oak. Opt for: Laminate flooring, stone or ceramic tiles. These also have the additional benefit of keeping your pets cooler during hotter weather.  

4. The Ultimate Playzone 

Avoid letting your energetic little friend run riot around the whole house. They need to chase balls, roll excitedly around and play tug of war, but there are some areas of the house in which this is less desirable.  Instead, create a designated 'play space' which your pet knows is suitable for play and where they can enjoy some quality 'me' time. Keep their toys stored neatly away and out of view but easily accessible.  

5. Spotless Kitchens 

Pet friendly interiors are all about keeping your space as tidy as possible, allowing that stunning new kitchen to glisten without unsightly doggy/kitty bowls smudging that perfect vision. Slide them underneath the toe kick of your kitchen cabinetry, bringing them out for food time, and slotting that water dish around a corner so your furry friends always have fresh water available.  

6. A Throne for a King/Queen

An essential part of pet friendly interior design must be the addition of their very own comfy bed. Don't place a traditional tartan pet bed into a swanky, sleek apartment, rather select a simpler, more contemporary design that will enhance the rest of your interiors.  

6. Mud Room Sanctuary

Imagine the scene - you've just been out on a fabulous walk. The door opens - the gateway to your beautiful home. And before you know it, your hound is through that entrance, drying off on the sides of your magnificent new sofa.  Install an entry-way door to offer you a space in which to dry off and wash down your doggy before they can enter the home.

7. Savvy Window Treatments

Every pet loves to peer out of the window to watch for their owners coming home and to bask in the sunshine on those sunny days.  Lightweight, sheer fabric curtains will allow them to enjoy their view and if you have blinds, make sure you pull them up so the little darlings don't bring them down accidentally.  

For more information, visit www.aji.co.uk.