Designing for Paws & People: The Rise of Dual-Performance Fabrics in Hospitality

Team L&M

As travel becomes more pet-inclusive, a deep dive into how high-performance, stylish fabrics are making hospitality spaces both human- and pet-friendly. Lets see what the designers are saying on this:

Sachin Chauhan, Director, Maison by Nirmals

Luxury hospitality has evolved to become more inclusive and pet-friendly. In this context, the demand for dual-performance fabrics – those that cater to both people and their four-legged companions – is on the rise. Modern customers expect interiors that are as refined as they are resilient and functional. Dual-performance fabrics answer this need with innovative weaves and advanced finishes that resist stains, repel odors, and endure claw marks, without compromising on the rich textures, elegant drape or tactile comfort expected in premium settings.
For hotels and resorts embracing pet-friendly hospitality, dual-performance fabrics are not just practical, but also essential. So choosing scratch-proof and washable textiles for upholstery and bedding is of utmost importance. Linen blends, chenille, leather, canvas and microfiber synthetic fabrics come in handy in such situations.
Also, these thoughtful selections make it easy to accommodate every guest and their pet with grace, while reflecting a commitment to thoughtful, future-forward design.

Rohit Khemka, Founder, RR Décor

In today’s pet-friendly hospitality spaces, interiors must cater to both people and their furry companions. Dual-performance fabrics are gaining popularity as they combine durability, style, and comfort in one package. These advanced textiles are designed to resist stains, scratches, and odours, making them ideal for use in hotel lobbies, lounges, and suites that welcome pets. With tightly woven fibres, moisture-resistant finishes, and soft yet strong textures, they provide a practical solution without compromising on aesthetics. As more boutique hotels and resorts embrace the pet-friendly lifestyle, there is a growing demand for interiors that are both luxurious and functional. Neutral tones, rich textures, and easy maintenance have become key design elements. Dual-performance fabrics offer peace of mind to hospitality providers and create a welcoming, comfortable experience for guests, whether they walk on two legs or four. In this new era of inclusive travel, thoughtful design is about embracing every guest, paws included.

Shuchita Sancheti Garg, Founder and Creative Director of vVyom By Shuchita

In today’s hospitality spaces, designers are looking for smart solutions that work well for both people and their pets. That’s where dual-performance fabrics come in. These materials are made to handle everyday messes, think spills, scratches, and muddy paws, while still looking polished and feeling comfortable.
What makes them so useful is their durability and ease of maintenance. They’re often stain-resistant, moisture-repellent, and easy to clean, which means hotels, cafes, or lounges can stay looking fresh even with high foot traffic or pet-friendly policies. Some also have antibacterial properties, which is a big plus in shared spaces.
The best part? You don’t have to sacrifice style. These fabrics come in beautiful colors and textures, making it easy to keep the space looking warm and welcoming. As more places aim to be inclusive and practical, performance fabrics are proving to be a thoughtful, modern design choice.