Cover Dog Pavilion by industrial designer Giulio Iacchetti
Dog Pavilion by industrial designer Giulio Iacchetti
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How renowned architects and designers create living spaces for dogs that blend creativity and functionality
We have long observed the intricate thought processes behind architectural design over decades, exploring builds that benefit communities and illuminate human interaction within spatial environments.
But what insights can we gain when designing architecture for our canine companions? What nuanced considerations emerge when creating spaces for a species we believe we understand, yet whose nonverbal communication continues to reveal new depths of complexity?
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Architecture for Dogs seeks to bridge this understanding, presenting a curated collection of 18 designs by world-renowned architects and designers. Curated by Kenya Hara, the artistic director of Muji, the project features 18 designs by some of the world’s most renowned architects and designers, each creating unique structures tailored to specific dog breeds.
Above Kengo Kuma’s Mount Pug, a mesh-shaped “mountain” constructed from interlocking plywood
Kengo Kuma’s Mount Pug, a mesh-shaped “mountain” constructed from interlocking plywood
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The project far surpasses traditional pet accessories, offering a profound exploration of the human-canine relationship, as each takes a deep dive to reimagine conventional notions of pet spaces.
Take, for instance, Kengo Kuma’s Mount Pug–a mesh-shaped hexagonal and triangular “mountain” constructed from interlocking thin plywood pieces without nails or bonds.
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Sou Fujimoto’s hybrid design is crafted from Japanese cypress panels and transparent acrylic
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Meanwhile, Sou Fujimoto, known for pioneering approaches to architectural spaces, extends his creative vision to Boston Terriers with No Dog, No Life! This hybrid design, crafted from Japanese cypress panels and transparent acrylic, blurs boundaries between human and canine living environments, allowing them to be an integral part of daily life.
Toyo Ito’s Mobile Home for Shiba, on the other hand, addresses the unique needs of aging or weather-sensitive dogs. The well-ventilated wooden basket features wheels and an adjustable shade, enabling comfortable walks and serving as a versatile bed inside the home.
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Above Niku Rug is a meat-shaped rug designed by MAD Architects’ Ma Yansong
Niku Rug is a meat-shaped rug designed by MAD Architects’ Ma Yansong
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Initially presented at Design Miami in 2012, with a subsequent showcase in London in 2020, Architecture for Dogs is currently on display at the ADI Design Museum in Milan, Italy–notably one of the few museums in the country that welcomes dogs within its exhibition spaces.
Showcasing until February 16, the exhibition features 13 existing architectural pieces alongside five new designs, including the Niku Rug by MAD Architects’ Ma Yansong–a meat-shaped rug designed for Labrador Retrievers to rest and dream of succulent meals after playtime.
Read more: 5 extraordinary buildings that capture the spirit of ‘Dune’
Piero Lissoni’s Hangar resembles a miniature airplane hangar with traditional Japanese woodworking
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London designer Asif Khan’s I See You, crafted specifically for dogs with black fur, transforms a seamless felted wool surface into a world of exploration. Beginning as a soft horizontal carpet, the design gently rises to a plateaued peak, culminating in a small crater that provides an intimate nestling spot.
Inspired by the spirit of adventure and the joy of returning home, Piero Lissoni’s Hangar is a reimagined dog house for Yorkiepoos. Resembling a miniature airplane hangar rooted in traditional Japanese woodworking, the design features a curved roof, a large comfort cushion, and an extended platform for food and water bowls.
See also: How Italian brand Porro continues to lead in sustainable luxury furniture design
The dual-purpose micro-environment Cocoon, designed by São Paulo-based FGMF
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Besides that, The Cocoon by São Paulo-based FGMF presents a dual-purpose micro-environment designed for Yorkshire Terriers. Underneath the glass-topped table for human functionality, the suspended cocoon is constructed from a laser-cut cardboard structure and wrapped in customisable with soft fabrics like felt, neoprene, or knitted textiles.
Finally, industrial designer Giulio Iacchetti’s Dog Pavilion for Italian Greyhounds pays homage to canine nobility. Drawing inspiration from Piero della Francesca’s historical frescoes depicting Emperor Constantine at rest, the design features a precious tent-like structure crowned with a scarlet flag; whereas inside, a soft red velvet cushion provides warmth for these naturally chilly dogs.
Dog owners worldwide can bring these innovative designs to life by downloading blueprints and instructions from the Architecture for Dogs website
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Credits
Photography: Hiroshi Yoda
Topics
Celeste Goh is a senior writer covering architecture and design. Based in Malaysia, she reports on emerging architectural and home design trends, as well as insights by local and international architects and interior designers.
Previously, she covered men’s lifestyle, fashion, music and entertainment.
