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Home Story by Caroline, Nola and Mari

Home Story by Caroline, Nola and Mari

Caroline Rubik lives with her two cats, Nola and Mari, in her cosy home in Cologne. 
In our Home Story, Caroline gives us an exclusive insight into life with her two furry friends and reveals what is particularly important to her when designing her home to suit her cats.

‘It’s important to me to show that you don’t have to sacrifice a beautiful home because of your cats – the two can go together wonderfully.’

Caroline

How Would You Describe Your Interior Style?

I’d describe my interior style as calm and cosy: lots of wood, muted colours, mixed with a few design classics – as a brand designer, I do have a bit of a soft spot for them. For me, ‘home’ means, above all, a place to unwind: a sanctuary where I can recharge my batteries.

Nola loves lying on the Parete climbing steps so she can keep a close eye on everything from there. Mari loves spending her time in her Cesto cat basket, looking out of the window.

Mari’s and Nola’s Favourite Spot

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What Role Do Materials, Colours and Shapes Play in Your Home When You have Cats?

They play an important role in creating a sense of harmony, because for me, the difference lies in whether cat accessories simply look like accessories or feel like a natural part of the interior. I’m drawn to natural materials such as wood, felt, and rattan, paired with muted tones. Rather than competing with the space, they blend effortlessly into the overall aesthetic, allowing even the most functional pieces to feel considered and beautifully at home.

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Sustainability is particularly important to me – I want the products to be well-made and to last a long time, rather than having to be replaced quickly, so that my cats can continue to benefit from them in the long term.
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Whenever I get home, there’s always someone waiting for me, and that feeling of joy when I arrive is simply lovely.
How Do You Manage to Combine Functionality With Your Own Design Standards?

I take the same approach as I do in my work as a brand designer: first I consider what the product needs to achieve, then I look for the shape and material that best bring that to life. That’s how functionality and design come together perfectly.

Animals play a big part in my life. I can’t walk past one without stroking it or doing something nice for it. We adopted Mari from an animal shelter, and together with Nola, my two cats are an integral part of my family. I can’t even imagine life without them now.
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MiaCara combines exactly what matters to me: minimalist design, high-quality materials and muted colours that blend seamlessly into our interior style and the overall look.
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Rotolo is the perfect activity toy for days when I’m out and about for a bit longer.
How Important is Sustainability to You When Choosing Products for Your Home?

I prefer to shop mindfully and less frequently, but to buy items that are of high quality and will last me a long time. For me, this is also about appreciation – both for the materials and for the craftsmanship that goes into a good product.

Caroline is all about aesthetics and design.
On her Instagram account, she shares not only interior design inspiration but also glimpses into her life and everyday routine with her two cats.