Header: Courtesy of Miiko He
The blending of human and pet lifestyles has become increasingly evident, particularly as more people feel comfortable bringing their pets to work, cats and dogs alike. Traditionally, dogs have been the primary companions taken out for social activities, but now cats are beginning to enjoy the same inclusion, which is a lovely change.
As the number of people keeping pets and incorporating them into various aspects of their daily lives continues to rise, the need for furniture that supports human-pet interaction in communal settings has become more apparent. Noticing the niche and feeling inspired, Mikko He created the TubeTube, a modular pet furniture specifically designed for public spaces, such as offices and shared areas, that caters to both humans and pets’ needs.
TubeTube consists of three distinct seating modules that can be either combined or used individually, offering flexibility and versatility in creating a comfortable environment for both humans and their loved companions. The design is inspired by the natural behaviours and preferences of cats, particularly their inclination to seek out narrow, enclosed spaces when in unfamiliar environments, which provides them with a sense of security and comfort. The outer layer of the tubes is wrapped in soft upholstery, ensuring a comfortable seating spot for humans while also being durable and scratch-resistant.
The use of plywood with a wood veneer for the interior makes the TubeTube easy to maintain, making it practical for everyday use with pets in the mix. Additionally, the metal legs provide stability, preventing the furniture from tipping over, which allows owners to comfortably sit along the tubes and speak about all of the things they love about their pets.
