Interior Design for Multi-Cat Household
Western Australia, 2017
The design of a new residential/home office building provided the opportunity to explore alternative interiors serving both human and non-human inhabitants.
Free access from three wings into a large courtyard allows all inhabitants free movement to a garden space, without any risk of escape and with sun/shade areas year round. Properly designed, outdoor spaces are safe and rewarding spaces for pets (plant selection is critical), barrier-free spaces for humans and safe for wildlife.
Internally, dividing walls, cabinetry and shelving all provide dual use opportunities. Dividing walls between use spaces provide high level walkways for cats, accessed by 3m hessian covered scratch poles, shelving located well will work as steps/lazing areas, and wall hung cabinetry finishing clear of the floor makes cleaning easy while also creating effective hiding spaces.
Materials, as for outdoor areas, are a critical consideration; natural fibres, low or no VOC finishes, solar passive spaces and easy clean surfaces ensure both humans and non-humans stay healthy and happy.