BEST IN SHOW
From beds to bowls, wares for our furry companions are becoming increasingly cool. Here’s our pick of some of the most stylish new designs
With huge swathes of the population working from home last year, it’s no surprise that many took the opportunity to welcome a fourlegged friend to the family – visits to the RSPCA’s puppy-fostering pages rose by 650 per cent over lockdown – resulting in an unexpected boom for the pet industry. Although designer accessories are nothing new, there’s a noticeable influx of products that sit at the intersection between the pet and interiors phenomena stirred up by coronavirus, aimed squarely at those who want their animal apparatus to look at home alongside Farrow & Ball paint and Eames chairs.
One of the boldest new launches comes courtesy of Manchesterbased brand Hik9, which has teamed up with Studio Rhonda to create a series of seven striking beds that feature graphic prints, punchy colours and sleek lines: ‘I wanted to make the product a desirable item of furniture for the home, rather than just a dog bed. Each product is really individual in its cut and design, you could even hang it on the wall as a piece of artwork in your home if you wanted to,’ explains Studio Rhonda founder Rhonda Drakeford.
Alessi has also introduced several novelties to its pet lines; the ‘Acino’ dog-waste bag dispenser, more akin to jewellery or sculpture in sleek stainless steel, the playful ‘Ciao’ lead and the futuristic-looking ‘Tacaban’ bed for cats and dogs, which is designed to make pets feel protected and hidden while still being able to keep a beady eye on their human companions. Meanwhile, dog-bed specialist Charley Chau launched its ‘Bliss Bolster Bed’ over lockdown, a design that’s made from upholstery-grade material and is designed to be as robust and comfortable as any sofa. Its elegant design has removable covers, the idea being owners can switch up the look just as you might do with bedding. Feeding time is just as well catered for, thanks to Kintails’ earthy ceramic bowls and treat jars, a collaboration with Kana, whose sought-after ceramics grace the tables of restaurants and stylish abodes alike. Pets have never had it so good.