A fresh coat of paint updates old cabinets.

We know pets love to be in the kitchen helping to supervise meal preparation. The corner cabinet has a special bed for the homeowner's Pekingese dogs so they don't get underfoot, but can watch all the action. 

A pair of potted orange trees sit on the counter for an unexpected touch of greenery.

Homeowner Sasha Seymour’s kitchen is a true showpiece with a fireplace oven and double fridges. Light pours in from an oversized skylight, illuminating the brass hardware. As Sasha prepares dinner, her dog Cleo happily pads around on herringbone wood floors that look as though they belong in a pre-war New York apartment or Parisian pied-à-terre.

Find more inspiration in our photo galleries of Rooms With Warm Metal Accents and Pets & Interiors. Plus, watch a tour of Sasha’s retro-inspired townhouse on Online TV.

An open-concept room allows pets to roam freely.

The Murdoch Mysteries star and his family enjoy entertaining so an open-concept room was created by designer Eric McClelland. Brianna (left), Mikaela (back right) and Dominique Bisson sit around the family’s handmade reclaimed-pine table. Clear chairs keep sight lines open to views outside.

See more pets & interiors in our photo gallery.

Low, understated furniture maintains sight lines through a space.

Rustic walls and floors are inviting for visiting pets. Overstuffed furnishing makes the living room designed by Karen Cole seem less fussy and more pet-friendly.

A cosy carpet is a welcoming spot for this golden retriever who likes to spend time relaxing with his owner, designer Ingrid Oomen.

Organize collections in like groups.

A series of photos by John Massey is one of the most coveted pieces in Dan Molenaar and Diane Young-Molenaar’s collections. Their Jack Russell terrier, Beatrice, is at ease among Dansk Cast Iron candleholders, designed by Jens Quistgaard in the 1950s and ’60s. The couple contrast these with the clear glass curves of circa-1930s Primula apothecary jars by Jacob Bang.

See more pets & interiors in our photo gallery.

A pared-down, masculine look.

With a slim chaise longue in chocolate brown and contemporary art, this nook is a favourite of this sleepy Weimaraner.

Homeowners Krista and Chris Cooper renovated this Whistler chalet to accommodate their family of four.

Warm, neutral fabrics, durable wood furniture and a textured rug are dog- and kid-friendly. “I love having kids running around and we encourage all of our friends to bring their pets,” says Krista. An open-concept living-dining area allows them to spend more quality time together.

Get more decorating ideas in our Family Friendly Homes photo gallery.

Stone walls, sheepskin and a vintage Judy create a flawless country look.

Seen here taking a break from the great outdoors, Pushkin, graphic designer Carmen Dunjko's tuxedo cat, stretches out on a sheepskin.

Leather is a an easy-to-clean option for homes with pets.

The cosy study in this lovely country home has a feel of a long-established space thanks to its handsome white-pine panelling and trim, pastoral artwork and leather chair — which the owners' dachshunds have appropriated as their own.

The living room’s extra-tall fireplace is a showstopper.

Interior designer Christie Hansen designed the living room’s slender matching coffee tables — which can be pushed together as one — to ease movement through the space; they’re also easier to reach from the sofas. Architect Jim Pearson took his inspiration for the 22-foot reclaimed barnboard ceiling from old Ontario barns. Its rustic beams are a fitting counterpoint to the elegant furniture.

See more photos of this gorgeous country home in our photo gallery.

For more lighting options, see our Statement Lighting photo gallery.

Slipcovers and pine shelving offer budget-savvy style.

Toronto designer Barb Purdy wanted to spruce up her Parry Sound cottage on a budget. She opted for custom linen slipcovers to cover her old furniture instead of buying a new sofa, installed pine built-ins in lieu of hardwood bookcases, and hung several bamboo blinds instead of splurging on custom window coverings. The result? A warm and inviting space with a customized look and loads of storage.

For more, see our Traditional Cottages photo gallery, Cottages & Country Houses photo gallery or Pets & Interiors photo gallery.

Use a corner in a living room as an office.

Lindsi Mandelbaum and Lorne Rose live in an 1,100-square-foot Toronto townhouse, and had to maximize space in their tiny living room. This back corner by the patio doors seemed like the perfect spot for a small desk and a piece of statement art — a gift for Lindsi originally featured on the show Gossip Girl. Their white cat has claimed the chair as a spot to bird watch.

See more Pets & Interiors in our photo gallery.

Organize books by hue for a tidy, uncluttered look.

Albert the Lab rests on a rug by the new built-in bookshelf in the entry and cuts a handsome figure next to the soft, green colour.

Bold stripes liven up an otherwise traditional living room design.

Inquisitive cat Mango sits perched among a collection of objects d’art and unique finds including an obelisk, a cow skull, coral and a cow hide pillow.

The designer/baker in her Vancouver living room.

West coast interior designer Rosie Daykin followed her dreams of baking full-time and opened Butter Baked Goods. Here she is at home enjoying a slice of cake with her kitty. The neutral sofa and mirrored console in the background make her living room seem even larger.

See the rest of this home in our photo gallery, plus see more Pets & Interiors.

Make a collection stand out against a boldly painted feature wall.

Vancouver designer April Tidey’s stencilled wall pattern, found in the kitchen sitting area, lends an exotic feel to this space. The tortoise shell and two types of coral came from an antique shop. On the couch sits April’s lovable pug, guarding a quirky owl throw pillow.

See more pets in our Pets & Interiors photo gallery. Plus, see other photos of Tidey’s cabin and loft and more orange rooms in our photo gallery.

The key to a lively yet coherent look lies in layering plaids with complementary tones.

In this cosy corner, drapery sporting a classic bright-red tartan forms an arresting backdrop for a wide armless chair covered in moody blue-green plaid. A toss pillow picks up on the tones of both main tartans, while a throw featuring large grey and white checks tempers it all. Rounding out the British look are leather riding boots and a well-groomed white Westie borrowed from former H&H editor Stephanie White.

See more pets in our Pets & Interiors photo gallery.

For more lighting options, see our Statement Lighting photo gallery.

Paint window frames for a contemporary hit.

Curled up near a graphic citrine pillow, homeowner Tanya Linton's Calico enjoys an afternoon nap. The freshly painted 1950s-style living room windows bring sunlight that makes the cat's nap extra cosy.

A bookcase filled with leather-bound books adds elegance in this old world style space.

A clean white palette keeps the look current and fresh while a leather wingback chair elevates the room. A decorative chair with flared legs can be used as extra seating and is more airy than an upholstered piece.

See more Pets & Interiors in our photo gallery.

Kaili Zevenbergen’s tiny Vancouver studio features dramatic colours against a mostly white backdrop.

This cat has no trouble making itself comfortable on the back of a roll-arm sofa, a piece in this Moroccan vibe living space.

An airy glass, chrome and painted-wood desk tucked into a bay window creates a serene home office.

An English bulldog takes centre-stage in this library and office despite the clear views from bay windows. A large rug was added to make sure that the pooch wouldn't damage wood flooring.

Start with a white envelope and add colour.

Textile designer Beth Poulter tests out fabrics on her bed to see how they hold up to wear and tear from her rescue dog, Geronimo, who likes to nestle in for daytime naps.

Let sleeping dogs lie.

Designer April Tidey has no qualms about letting her pug get comfortable amongst the throw pillows on her bed.

A simple and classic masculine look.

An American Cocker Spaniel enjoys the comforts of plush, pinstripe pillows and bedding.

Choose white frames for a contemporary look.

2010's second place design contest winner Alia Nicola's dog poses proudly atop a bench at the end of the bed. His collar, and framed photos behind him, add subtle colour to the room's mostly white palette.

A chartreuse throw adds a pop of colour.

In Vancouver designer Peter Wilds‘ sky-high condo, large picture windows with views of the city take centre stage. The principal bedroom is kept simple and uncluttered. The low bed frame is a counterpoint to the wooden deer heads high on the wall — creating contrast and interest. His cat looks right at home on the soft bedding.

See more Pets & Interiors in our photo gallery.

A teenage girl gets the star treatment in this sophisticated space.

The gold-toned bed, Andy Warhol print and honey-hued tabby are a warm contrast to the black and white furniture and linens for a graphic-meets-glamorous look.

Custom furniture provides smart storage in this small apartment.

Designer Brad Ford deftly carved out an oasis of calm amid the chaos of urban living. In his New York City bedroom, his dog Turbo relaxes on the low bed, which features built-in end tables and reading lamps, designed to fit snugly under the window.

See more of Brad Ford’s Apartment, plus find more inspiration in our photo gallery of 10 Small Bedrooms.

Use an occasional chair as a bedside table.

Michael Penney transformed this $40 junk-store find into a perfect piece to break up a too-matchy bedroom set. Ensure the seat meets the mattress height or the chair might look off-scale. For extra pop, set a neutral chair against a bold accent wall like this lawn green hue. Stewart the dog seems to like the look.

Learn this DIY Chair Makeover.

See more Pets & Interiors in our photo gallery.

A tangerine Hermès throw pops against white bedding.

Fashion veteran Paul Sinclaire’s bedroom reflects his parter’s love of old world English elegance without excessive details — apart from the couples’ three Brittany spaniels.

See more pets in our Pets & Interiors photo gallery. Plus, see other photos of Paul’s interiors.

A home with pets doesn’t have to compromise style.

Suzanne is a true animal lover who knows how to design a beautiful home while keeping pets in mind. Here, Suzanne cuddles with cat Diego in her old home's warm and feminine principal bedroom.

This principal bathroom was raised slightly to define the space.

Jake, a 12-year-old yellow Lab, makes himself comfortable on an antique Persion rug chosen to add warmth and a pop of colour.

A wood ladder leading to a ceiling attic-inspired opening functions as a bookshelf and cat toy.

A wood ladder is a perfect complement to a stark white bathroom and is even better as a climbing, and lounging, space for a friendly cat.

White and red accents make for a cheerful foyer.

This boxer terrier can keep a watchful eye on the front door from his bed. The red bed is treated as a colourful accent, along with a felt-covered pouf from Vancouver Special.

A spiral staircase adds sculptural appeal.

When homeowner and artistic director of Canada Blooms Colomba Fuller and Beta, her Schnauzer-Maltese mix, arrive home from a walk they are greeted by her beautiful art collection.

Allow room for stand-alone furniture.

In The Real Housewives of Vancouver star Mary Zilba's weekend home, freestanding pieces, like this desk, give her room to create and her dog room to move.

Warm up a white room with a brass captain’s mirror.

A white lab looks right at home on a graphic rug which breaks up the dark hardwood. Handsome architectural moulding and two matching light fixtures keep this space bright yet grounded. 

Large built-ins create cosy nooks for the owners’ pets.

The 12' x 15' mudroom doubles as the dog room and houses a spot for each dog to sleep. Cubbies and open shelves help corral all the entrance's clutter. To keep the space fresh, air is piped into the area, keeping odours to a minimum.

Where space permits, add extra garden nooks.

Keep relaxation spaces simple, with luxurious furniture and easy-to-maintain flooring like Astroturf. The huge sofa from Jardin de Ville looks like it just came in from Miami Beach and invites relaxation — even for four legged friends. A pergola adds a sense of enclosure without blocking the sun, and a solid railing topped with a boxwood-filled planter enhances the secluded feel.

See more pets & interiors in our photo gallery.

Streamline storage spaces in entryways with clever built-ins.

House & Home editor Suzanne Dimma’s back entryway serves as a drop-off spot for daily necessities when entering or leaving the house. Custom-designed built-in units by the door provide extra storage, but have an unusual inspiration: “This whole construction is for litter boxes,” says Suzanne. Holes cut in the bottom section allow her cats to enter and exit while concealing the litter boxes.

See more rooms from Suzanne’s new house, plus her old house, in our gallery of Suzanne’s houses.

A practical room devoted to six furry friends.

This rural Ontario home was designed to accommodate the homeowners’ large family and canine companions. A half-door leading into the dog room-mudroom keeps the owners’ furry friends in place, without them being entirely closed off. The room also leads outside to the pool area and a big outdoor dog area.

See more pets in our Pets & Interiors photo gallery. Also, see more photos of this Gorgeous Country Home in our photo gallery.

A large lawn lets pets explore.

The yard is a favourite spot for Pongo, one of the family's two dogs. A watchful eye can be kept on fido from the private second floor terrace that has clear views to the garden through the glass railing.

Make the whole family comfortable.

Designer and owner of Angus & Company Michael Angus’s Portuguese water dog enjoys lake views while reclining on a white wicker and gingham chair.

See more pets & interiors in our photo gallery.

Chic plastic furniture is weather and dog-proof.

Interior designer Christine Ralphs loves to lounge on her back patio with her wire fox terrier Bitsy. Decorated in her trademark black-and-white colour palette, this outdoor sitting area — outfitted with Philippe Starck’s polypropylene Bubble Club Sofa — requires little upkeep.

See more pets in our Pets & Interiors photo gallery.

A dog as sleek as the stylist’s home.

Design guru Arren Williams loves to take Spot, his two-tone whippet, out for long walks through the city. Although the rambunctious pup had a few bad habits to break — such as chewing holes through rugs — Arren managed to keep his home stylish and clean.

See more pets in our Pets & Interiors photo gallery. Also, see interiors of Arren’s modern-electic homes in our photo gallery.

A sturdy basket is this cat’s new favourite resting spot.

This handsome fellow is Suzanne's cat, Po. He loves to keep her company in the kitchen, especially when she brings in new props for him to perch on.

This lovable lab spends hours outdoors.

When H&H’s Mark Challen isn’t renovating his gorgeous home, he loves to take Bentley, his flat coated Retriever for a run in the park. Although blind, Bentley is always up for a game of fetch!

Get a glimpse of Mark’s gorgeous home as he takes us through a video tour of his kitchen renovation. Plus, see more pets in our Pets & Interiors photo gallery.

This gorgeous feline keeps up with the latest interior trends.

Elaine Hogg — author and avid H&H reader — shares her love for our magazine with her cat Angus. Here, Angus studies the May 2010 issue for decorating inspiration.

A tropical-inspired paint colour.

H&H.com’s associate editor Gwen McAuley painted over a bold red accent wall with this bright turquoise hue in her principal bedroom. Behr’s Intense Teal (S-G-490) was the perfect shade — not too blue and not too green. The warm grey organic matelassé duvet and shams from West Elm keep the room from looking too summery. Charlie the cat loves lounging on the foot of the bed.

Read Gwen’s blog post about this bedroom makeover.

See more Pets & Interiors in our photo gallery.

A perfect, cushy nook to catch a quick snooze.

Tomba, Suzanne’s fluffy Turkish Angora, loves napping in her workspace. Here, Tomba enjoys the soft textures of Suzanne’s latest fabric samples.

See more pets in our Pets & Interiors photo gallery.

A textured rug creates a cosy spot for lounging.

H&H photo editor Leslie Williams makes sure her Chihuahua mix, Pony, is involved in all decorating decisions. Here, Pony carefully inspects the weave of Leslie's new Persian rug.

The cats check out the new yard after having just moved into her current home.

“I can’t imagine living in my home without my beautiful cats Z, Tomba, Acorn and Po,” says Suzanne. Having once lived with five cats and a Westie, Suzanne knows how to deal with furniture damage, mess and unsightly litter boxes. Read more about her tips and tricks on living with pets in this blog post.

See more pets in our Pets & Interiors photo gallery.