Houndsware was designed with Albert the Welsh springer spaniel in mind; he is a fun guy, goofy and emotional at times, yet regal and refined. He needed a collar, lead, and harness that suited him. 

 

While looking for the perfect ensemble it seemed there were two main approaches to dog accessory design, the first being form follows function - pet apparel that is functional and often ‘heavy duty’ looking, but lacking aesthetic appeal and creative intent.

 

On the flip side, the second approach, seemingly aimed for smaller dogs, focuses mostly on function follows form. Many of the cute printed fabrics didn’t look robust enough for my mud-puddle-loving, who-is-walking-who, 20-something-kg dog. 

 

With the desire for gear that wasn’t too utilitarian or too cutsie, Houndsware was created using Vitruvius’ three principles of architecture: commodity, firmness, and delight. The aim being to develop considerately designed items that are useful, durable, and easy on the eye.