How to Style a Dog Crate Corner

How to Style a Dog Crate Corner So It Looks Designed, Not Dumped

We’ve all seen it: a wire crate shoved into a corner, random blanket half hanging off, dog toys exploded everywhere. Functionally fine. Visually… not your vibe.

This guide is all about styling your dog crate corner so it looks like it was meant to be there—like a proper part of your home design, not an afterthought.

Step 1: Treat the Crate as Real Furniture

First mindset shift: your crate is furniture, not “pet gear”.

If you’re using a timber furniture-style crate, this is easy:

• Think of it as a console, sideboard or bedside table
• Ask yourself: “If this were just a piece of furniture, how would I style it?”

That alone stops you from dumping random stuff on top.

Step 2: Style the Top Surface

You can’t go wrong with a simple 3-piece formula:

1. Light source – lamp or candle (used safely)
2. Greenery – plant or foliage (real or faux, dog-safe if real)
3. Personal piece – frame, book stack, sculptural decor, or Paws and Willow merch

Keep it balanced:

• Taller item (lamp/plant) at one side
• Shorter pieces (books, frames, decor) grouped on the other
• Leave some breathing room—don’t cover every centimetre

Step 3: Use the Wall Above

The wall above your dog crate corner is prime styling real estate.

Options:

• Wall hangings or framed prints
• A trio of small artworks
• A simple shelf with a few decor pieces

Try to keep it cohesive with your home:

• Coastal? Soft neutrals, ocean or abstract prints
• Farmhouse? Wooden signs, simple typography, rustic frames
• Modern? Minimal, clean shapes, maybe one bold print

This visually anchors the crate and makes the whole area feel intentional.

Step 4: Layer in Softness

Inside and around the crate, add texture:

• A plush bed or cushion inside in colours that match your space
• A throw-style blanket for extra coziness and seasonal warmth
• A small rug in front of the crate to define the zone

Soft layers don’t just make it comfier for your dog—they also visually soften the timber and metal so the area feels warm and inviting.

Step 5: Keep Toys & Treats Styled, Not Scattered

Instead of a toy explosion:

• Use a basket beside or under the crate for toys
• A small lidded jar or canister near the crate for treats
• Store grooming bits (brush, wipes) in a drawer or small box

You can tie these in with your decor choices: matching materials, colours, or finishes.

Step 6: Match the Vibe to Your Interior Style

A few quick recipes:

Coastal / Hamptons

• Light timber or white crate
• Soft blues and greens
• Linen textures, glass or ceramic decor
• Light, airy artwork above

Modern Minimal

• Clean lines, maybe darker stain or contrast
• Limited palette: black, white, wood, one accent colour
• One hero decor piece instead of many small ones

Farmhouse / Rustic

• Warmer, visible-grain timber
• Barn door crate fronts
• Woven baskets, textured throws, simple typography art

Step 7: Don’t Forget Function

Styled is good, but it still needs to work.

Make sure:

• Doors can open fully without hitting walls or furniture
• There’s space for your dog to walk in comfortably
• Leads, collars and daily supplies are nearby but stored, not scattered

Form + function is where the magic is.

Step 8: Make It a Space Your Dog Actually Loves

All the styling in the world won’t matter if your dog hates the crate.

So inside, focus on:

• A bed they actually like lying on
• Temperature comfort (not directly under air con or blasting heater)
• Occasional special treats, chews or enrichment toys they only get in their crate

When your dog chooses to go into their styled crate corner on their own, you know you’ve nailed both the design brief and the dog brief.