The Rise of Custom Pet Built-Ins
Why More Homeowners Are Remodeling with Their Pets in Mind
April 2025
Here’s something that might surprise you: in 2025, pets aren’t just lounging on couches—they’re influencing remodeling plans. Seriously. From built-in dog beds to full-on cat suites, homeowners are putting their furry companions right at the heart of their design decisions.
This isn’t just a passing trend, either. At the International Builders’ Show in Vegas this year, “pet-centric design” was a buzzword that kept popping up. Contractors, designers, and homeowners alike are leaning into the idea that pets deserve a little luxury too.
Wait—What’s a Pet Built-In?
Think of it like this: you’re designing your dream home… and you decide your dog deserves a dreamy spot too. That’s what we’re talking about. Pet built-ins are integrated spaces for pets to eat, nap, clean up, or just hang out—without clashing with the home’s vibe.
A few examples:
- Tucked-under-the-stairs dog dens with LED lights (yes, mood lighting for dogs is a thing now)
- Slide-out drawers for food and water bowls
- Kitty litter hideaways with ventilation fans
- Dog wash stations with custom tile
- Even climate-controlled pet rooms for the truly spoiled
“It’s not just ‘we have a dog,’” says Lisa Mercado, a Beaverton interior designer who attended the show. “It’s ‘our dog is part of our home.’ And that mindset is changing how we build.”
Function First, Smell Second
One clever design tweak getting a lot of attention? Pet-specific ventilation. Gone are the days of keeping the cat box in the garage or hiding the dog bed in a corner. Now it’s about integrating pet spaces without the mess or smell.
Builders are installing exhaust fans in litter closets, mini HVAC vents in dog wash zones, and discreet air purifiers in pet rooms. It’s practical, smells better, and frankly—it’s genius.
Not Just a Trend—It’s a Lifestyle Shift
With over 70% of U.S. households owning pets (shoutout to the American Pet Products Association for the stat), it’s no shock that people are willing to spend a little more to make life better for their companions.
And this goes beyond pampering. These upgrades help streamline everyday tasks, reduce clutter, and keep things looking clean and organized. Built-in feeding stations? No more kicking over the dog’s water bowl in the dark. Hidden litter boxes? Guests won’t even know you have a cat.
Bonus Trends Fueling the Pet-Friendly Movement
Especially here in the Portland area, we’re seeing crossover trends like:
- Smart home tech for pet doors, cameras, or timed feeders
- Scratch-resistant, non-toxic flooring like cork or LVP
- Mudroom conversions with dog wash stations
- Custom cabinetry that uses awkward corners for pet nooks
- Zoned HVAC for folks with allergies or sensitive noses
HD Contractor Clients Are Already Doing It
This isn’t theory—it’s happening on our jobs. We recently wrapped up a Portland remodel where the homeowners asked for a built-in dog nook under the stairs. We tricked it out with dimmable lighting, washable cushions, and even a custom nameplate. Their pup basically has better lighting than most living rooms.
Another family wanted a cat perch that matched their cabinetry—with secret tunnels leading to a hidden litter room. Functional? Yes. Over-the-top? Also yes. And we loved every minute of it.
Want to Try It in Your Own Remodel?
Here are a few ideas to chew on: ✔️ Combine under-stair storage with a cozy pet bed
✔️ Build feeding stations right into your kitchen cabinetry
✔️ Create a smell-proof litter closet with built-in airflow
✔️ Add a utility sink or mini shower for muddy paws
✔️ Design a pet gear station with leash hooks + storage
✔️ Integrate pet gates directly into the woodwork
A Home Where Everyone Belongs
From our perspective as a general contractor, this trend isn’t going anywhere. People want homes that reflect their actual lives—and for a lot of folks, that means building for the whole family… pets included.
Whether it’s a full-blown remodel or just carving out a nook for your furball, we’re here to help.
📞 Call us at 360-980-0418
🌐 Visit: www.hdcontractor.net
Let’s build a space where everyone feels at home. Even the ones who shed.