Gone are the days of plastic dog beds awkwardly shoved into corners. UK homeowners are embracing built in dog beds. Stylish, space-saving, and seamlessly integrated into their interiors. With over 12 million pets in UK households according to the PDSA Pet Population Report, pet-friendly home design is no longer just a passing trend—it’s becoming an essential feature in modern homes.
From hidden nooks in kitchen islands to plush window seat hideaways, these thoughtful designs blend seamlessly with interiors while giving dogs their own luxurious retreat. This shift reflects a broader trend in pet ownership, where dogs are treated as family members deserving of comfort and style.
So, what makes built in dog beds such a game-changer for British homes? Let’s explore this fast-growing interior design trend and how it’s reshaping pet-friendly living spaces.
On this page
- Why Built In Dog Beds Are a Must-Have in Modern Homes
- Top Built In Dog Bed Styles in British Homes
- The Best Materials for Built-In Dog Beds
- Built In Dog Beds & Home Resale Value: A Smart Investment?
- Smart Technology in Pet-Friendly Home Design
- Real-Life Examples of Built In Dog Beds in UK Homes
- Potential Challenges to Consider
- Built In Dog Beds: A Lasting Trend in UK Interior Design
- Taking the Next Step: Making Your Home More Pet-Friendly
- Would You Consider a Built In Dog Bed for Your Home?
Why Built In Dog Beds Are a Must-Have in Modern Homes
Pet-friendly interior design is taking the UK by storm, and built in dog beds are leading the way. Homeowners are moving away from bulky, standalone beds in favour of custom designs that fit seamlessly into their living spaces.
Key Benefits of Built In Dog Beds:
✔ Space-Saving Elegance – Maximises room by using underutilised nooks.
✔ Seamless Aesthetics – Matches existing furniture and décor.
✔ Improved Pet Comfort – Memory foam and ergonomic designs support ageing joints.
✔ Increases Home Value – According to a 2023 survey by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 68% of pet owners consider their pets’ needs when choosing a living situation, suggesting that pet-friendly features can enhance appeal to future buyers.
For empty nesters and professionals looking to upgrade their living spaces, these integrated pet solutions offer both style and function.
Investment Considerations
Built in dog beds vary significantly in cost depending on complexity and materials:
- DIY Conversions: £200-£500 for materials to transform existing furniture
- Custom Carpentry: £500-£1,500 for professional built-ins like under-stair or window seat conversions
- Luxury Integrated Solutions: £1,500-£3,000+ for high-end kitchen island integrations with smart features
Installation typically takes 1-3 days depending on complexity, with most homeowners reporting the investment well worth the aesthetic and functional improvements.
Top Built In Dog Bed Styles in British Homes
Built in dog beds come in various styles, ensuring every home—whether a country cottage or a modern London flat—can integrate them effortlessly.
1. Kitchen and Utility Room Nooks
Built in dog beds under kitchen islands allow pets to stay close while you cook.
Utility rooms are perfect for cushioned nooks beneath counters, keeping muddy paws contained while giving dogs their own retreat.
2. Living Room Designs: Stylish & Functional
Custom-built cabinets with hidden pet spaces turn furniture into a multi-functional marvel.
Window seats with built-in cushions double as cosy dog hideaways.
Bookcase dog nooks maximise vertical space while blending with home décor.
3. Space-Saving Solutions for Small UK Homes
Pull-out drawer beds slide away when not needed—ideal for city flats.
Wall-mounted Murphy-style pet beds fold up during the day.
Under-stair alcoves create the perfect snug retreat without taking up extra space.
These thoughtful designs ensure pets have their own cosy corner without disrupting the aesthetic flow of a room.
The Best Materials for Built-In Dog Beds
British pet owners are prioritising quality and durability when selecting materials for their built-in pet spaces.
Popular Materials & Fabrics:
✔ Memory foam padding – Supports joints and improves sleep quality.
✔ Water-resistant fabrics – Treated cotton, microfibre, or performance textiles stand up to muddy paws.
✔ Chew-proof upholstery – Protects investment and extends longevity.
✔ Machine-washable covers – Ensures hassle-free cleaning.
Eco-Conscious Options
Additionally, eco-conscious homeowners are opting for:
🌱 Recycled materials – Sustainable textiles and reclaimed wood.
🌱 Non-toxic finishes – Safe for pets and environmentally friendly.
🌱 British-made craftsmanship – Low-carbon options that support local artisans like Benchmark Furniture or The Dormy House, who specialise in custom pet-friendly designs.
Maintenance Considerations
While built-in options offer aesthetic advantages, they do present some cleaning challenges:
- Built-in beds may require special vacuum attachments to reach corners
- Consider removable cushion inserts for easier washing
- Opt for darker fabrics in deep navy blue or charcoal (rather than light colours) to disguise pet hair between cleanings
Built In Dog Beds & Home Resale Value: A Smart Investment?
Many UK homeowners wonder whether integrating pet-friendly features adds value to their property.
✔ Estate agents report that well-crafted pet spaces appeal to buyers, especially in areas with high pet ownership.
✔ According to a survey by Zoopla, 42% of UK pet owners have specifically looked for pet-friendly features when house hunting.
✔ While specialized built-ins may not directly increase valuation, they can differentiate your property in competitive markets, potentially reducing time on market.
A smartly designed built-in dog bed won’t just benefit your pet—it could also make your home more attractive to buyers down the line. However, very personalized or unusual designs might limit appeal, so consider versatile options if resale is a priority.
Smart Technology in Pet-Friendly Home Design
The future of pet-friendly homes is tech-driven, with built in dog beds incorporating clever features to enhance comfort and convenience.
Innovative Features in Modern Dog Beds:
📱 Temperature-regulating padding – Adjusts warmth based on your dog’s body heat.
📊 Health-tracking sensors – Monitor rest patterns via smartphone apps.
🎥 Built-in cameras – Allow owners to check on pets while away.
These high-tech additions align with the growing trend of integrating smart home features into everyday living. UK companies like PetKit and FurboTech offer compatible technology that can be incorporated into custom designs.
Real-Life Examples of Built In Dog Beds in UK Homes
🏡 Surrey: A homeowner transformed an unused alcove into a plush dog nook with memory foam bedding beneath stylish cabinets. Their Labrador loves snoozing there while they work nearby. The installation cost approximately £800 and took a local carpenter two days to complete.
🏡 London: A couple installed matching dog beds within their kitchen island for their French Bulldogs. The cabinetry in Farrow & Ball’s “Hague Blue” (a deep, rich navy) hides paw prints while pull-out water bowls keep spills contained. This was part of a larger kitchen renovation, with the dog bed element adding approximately £1,200 to the project.
🏡 Manchester: A gray under-stair hideaway in Farrow & Ball’s “Mole’s Breath” (a warm mid-gray) provides a clever space-saving solution for a small urban home, doubling as extra storage. The DIY project cost around £350 in materials and was completed over a weekend.
These examples highlight how well-integrated pet spaces can work across different types of homes.
Potential Challenges to Consider
While built in dog beds offer numerous advantages, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Permanence: Unlike portable beds, built-ins are fixed features that require some commitment
- Cleaning access: Some designs may have tight corners that make thorough cleaning more challenging
- Adaptability: As pets age, their mobility needs may change, requiring adjustments to entry height
- Installation disruption: Custom carpentry may cause temporary disruption to your living space
Working with experienced designers who understand both human and canine needs can help mitigate these challenges.
Built In Dog Beds: A Lasting Trend in UK Interior Design
As pet ownership continues to rise, so does the demand for interior designs that prioritise both aesthetics and function.
✔ British homeowners are moving away from standalone pet furniture in favour of integrated solutions.
✔ Health-conscious and sustainable materials are shaping the next wave of pet-friendly design.
✔ Customisation options allow homeowners to match pet spaces with their existing décor.
Whether you live in a modern city flat, a cosy countryside home, or a suburban townhouse, built in dog beds offer a practical and stylish way to enhance your pet’s comfort while maintaining a beautifully designed home.
Taking the Next Step: Making Your Home More Pet-Friendly
Built-in dog beds offer a stylish and seamless way to integrate pet-friendly spaces into your home, but you don’t have to go all in on a custom build to create a cosy retreat for your dog. If a full renovation isn’t on the cards at the moment, you can adapt an existing space—such as an unused alcove, a spot under the stairs, or a quiet corner in your living room—by adding a different type of dog bed that complements your décor.
Whether you prefer elevated beds, orthopaedic options, or soft cave-style hideaways, there are plenty of stylish choices that blend seamlessly into your home. This guide to types of dog beds explores the best designs for comfort, style, and practicality, helping you find the right fit for your space.
However you decide to incorporate a pet-friendly feature, the key is balancing comfort, functionality, and aesthetics, ensuring your dog has a dedicated space to rest while keeping your home looking effortlessly stylish.
If you’re still considering adding built in dog beds to your home, either now or in the future, here are some steps to get started:
- Observe your pet’s current favorite resting spots to understand their preferences
- Measure your dog when fully stretched out to ensure adequate space
- Consult with local carpenters or interior designers with pet-friendly experience
- Request material samples to test for durability and ease of cleaning
- Consider your dog’s age and accessibility needs when planning height and entry points
Would You Consider a Built In Dog Bed for Your Home?
Have you installed a built in pet space in your home? We’d love to see your designs! Share your photos in the comments, or pin your favourite built in dog bed ideas on Pinterest.