Julia Newman Pedraza owns Julia Adele Design, a custom furniture and interior design firm based in Los Angeles. She was trained mostly in London, although she has extensive design experience in both the U.K. and the U.S., and has also lived in Spain. Julia holds academic degrees from Loyola Marymount and the University of Cambridge.
As an animal lover and believer in practical living solutions, Julia is an avid proponent of pet-friendly design. Scroll down for our interview with her:
Julia with her husband, Dr. Antonio Pedraza Reales, and their dog, Blue. Photo copyright: Julia Adele Design.
Do you have pets? If so, have they affected your personal design choices?
I have a chocolate Labrador, Blue, and fosters that come and go! I am also married to a veterinarian so there is always a lot of pet hair in the house! As we welcome pets on the furniture, I am mindful of the types of materials and fabrics I choose, as well as the height of certain pieces. In addition, I make sure that places in which I store cleansers and other items harmful to animals is secure.
Client’s dog, Oliver, on a custom-designed sofa by Julia Adele Design. Photo copyright: Julia Adele Design.
Have you worked with clients who have pets? If so, were the pets a significant consideration in your design proposals? How so?
Most of my clients have pets, which I love! I try to take into account my clients’ lifestyles, including how they like to live with their animal companions. I ask details about the pets such as: What type of animal? How old is the pet? Are they allowed on the furniture? Do you need a space for daily grooming? Do you need cabinets with locks to protect the animals from harmful substances?
What do you see as the major considerations for designing a pet-friendly interior? What are the biggest challenges?
That depends on the pet. However, the biggest challenge tends to be finding pieces that are durable and easy to clean. Other challenges are finding ways to hide pet food and toys, as well as create a space for washing. If there is an exterior space involved, a major consideration is how to ensure that the pet can be safely and humanely contained.
Do you have favorite solutions for resolving these challenges? Do you have favorite pet-friendly amenities or luxuries?
For durable, easy-to-clean pieces, you have to think about materials. For example, woven materials are not great for cats’ claws. Instead, consider something like a micro suede or velvet. With all pets, it is important to consider how easy materials are to clean (especially if you aren’t interested in slipcovers). With this in mind, go with synthetic materials. Cotton and linen stain easily and are difficult to clean. Indoor/outdoor and performance fabrics are always a great option too. I also love wool rugs! You have to vacuum them, but they are easy to clean.
To hide pet food, toys, and leashes, a built-in cabinet is great option. This hides what you need to in a beautiful way and makes it easily accessible. There are also some great decorative food bin options out there, and baskets make a great option for holding toys.
For bathing pets, of course it is ideal to have a mudroom with a dedicated wash space. However, there are lots of options for shower & bath attachments to make it easier even if you don’t have a mudroom.
What advice would you give to someone who is designing an interior for a family with dogs, cats, or other pets?
I would keep several things in mind, such as access — is there a need for a dog or cat door? Is there an area needed for cleaning muddy paws before entering the rest of the living space? What rooms do you spend the most time in with your pets? Are there areas that are off limits to your animals? Then if so, how do we make these easily inaccessible without interrupting the flow and feel of the living space?
What do you think is the biggest mistake people make when designing an interior that needs to accommodate pets?
Thinking they have to sacrifice style in order to accommodate pets!
Julia Adele Design project for a home with a white dog. Photo copyright: Julia Adele Design.
Do you have an example of pet-friendly design that you would like to share?
In one project, we used a great chenille fabric for home with a dog. In fact, the color matches that dog’s fur! This is important, as I have had clients who love white and cream but want their chocolate or black Labrador to have run of the house. In other words, it’s important to pick not only the right fabric, but also the right color.
Why do you think pet-friendly design is important?
Taking on a pet is a big responsibility and lifestyle change. People shouldn’t have to be worrying about their home and furniture; instead they should be able to make a home that they can relax in and enjoy the company of their pet.
Do you think that the interior design industry typically takes pets and pet-care tasks into consideration? Do you have comments about what the industry does well, and what it needs to improve?
I honestly think there are some great options out there, you just need to know what to look for!