8 “Barkitecture” Trends to Expect in 2023

Looking for ideas to elevate your pup or kitty's living space while keeping your home organized and stylish? We've got this year's trendiest pet-friendly spaces and places.

What is Barkitecture?

Barkitecture, a design movement incorporating pet-friendly elements, has been all the rage in 2022. In decades past, dogs and cats were expected to blend into the background - left in yards or secured in corner crates. Today's pet parents want their homes to reflect just how important pets are to us. Current homeowners and interior decorators seek design that makes life easier and more aesthetically pleasing for pet parents.

Since the Barkitecture phenomenon is not likely going away anytime soon, here are some of the trends we anticipate will gain popularity in the year ahead.

1. Dog-friendly bath spaces

Source: Rejuvination

Let's face it - our pets can be smelly creatures. They run, hike, and rub their way through all sorts of terrain. Since visiting a groomer in a moment's notice can incur a hefty charge, modern pet parents have been seeking ways to incorporate grooming stations into their own bathrooms.

2. Seamless cat playgrounds

Source: Scenario Architecture

Blink and you'll miss this cleverly designed cat walkway that spans the length of this stunning apartment. In 2023, we'll see more cat moms and dads utilizing high-reaching horizontal space for their curious copilots. It's no secret that the cat jungle gyms you can find at your local pet store aren't exactly stunning and subtle. That's why we love the idea of seamless design so much.

3. Design-forward crates

Source: This Old House, Fable, Rue Magazine

For pups struggling with separation anxiety or destructive tendencies, crate training can be a must. But that doesn't mean you have to suffer through the fugly metal cages of the past. Intrusive and cold, they were hard to integrate into the surrounding design of the home. This is why 2023 will see them replaced with built-ins or design-forward crates like our favorite from Fable.

4. Catios

Source: Yanko Design

Catios have been all the rage lately - and for good reason. More and more indoor cat parents want their little lions to experience the great outdoors, safely. That's why many design firms have taken to constructing pet-friendly patios, that can be placed outside or attached to existing homes. It's the best way to let your acrobatic feline get some fresh air without fear of predators!

5. Built-in food stations

Source: Dave and Jenny Marrs

Sometimes our pet's feeding spots can be a mess. We put out mats and try to keep them clutter-free, but that doesn't always go to plan. That's why these built-in dog bowls are so ingenious. They can be hidden if needed, but blend seamlessly into the existing kitchen design. We love that this example even incorporates a faucet, so fresh water is always on tap!

6. Stylish cat trees

Source: Martha Stewart Living

When we think of old-fashioned pet furniture, cat trees are one of the first to come to mind. The traditional versions can be a smelly eye sore. Impossible to hide and bulky in nature. That's why more modern, aesthetically pleasing versions can both elevate a room and also provide some fun for your kitty!

7. Stock tank pet pools

Source: The Spruce, Barkley Doodles

If you live in a warm climate and have a fur-covered child to care for, you might consider adding a built-in pet pool or stock tank to your yard. Unlike a real pool, these are relatively easy to install and require little maintenance. Plus, if it's big enough, you can even take a dip, too!

8. Pet bedrooms

Source: Farmhouse

For many of us, our pets are our children. That means it's not too far out there to build them their own separate bedrooms. Particularly if you're looking to keep your bedding fresh and clean and your dog in their own space, this can be a perfect way to designate a special space for your soulful sidekick. We suppose this could also work with cats but... sometimes they have a mind of their own.

Lizz Caputo is a Content Strategist at Figo, animal enthusiast, and owner of a rescued senior American Bully. Her hobbies include checking out new restaurants in her area, boxing, and petting dogs of all shapes and sizes.