The Mission District’s Muttville unveils its Ken Fulk-designed space to accompany its senior canine cause.
Senior dogs roam free in Muttville, newly designed by Ken Fulk.
Muttville (muttville.org) is one of those places with a purpose so perfect that it’s in the pantheon of nonprofits. The Mission District space is a senior dog rescue and a pioneer in the canine adoption field. It was the first senior dog rescue in California and the first shelter in America to provide a cage-free environment.
The Molly Cuddle Den
Since 2007, old-timer pooches have roamed free in the 18,000-square-foot adoption center, where over 12,000 dogs have been sheltered. Muttville recently unveiled its new permanent location, which doesn’t resemble any animal rescue on the planet.
Renowned Bay Area designer and dog lover Ken Fulk (@kenfulk) contributed his team’s expertise, elevating Muttville’s welcoming and playful atmosphere.
“Since Muttville is such a heartwarming emblem of San Francisco’s spirit, we played that up by creating adoption rooms that pay homage to our famous San Francisco Victorian Painted Ladies,” says Fulk, who used his Designer Dogs wallpaper in the reception area. “Far more than a shelter, this is meant to be a community gathering place where dogs and the humans who appreciate them come together.”
Lounging takes on a whole new meaning at Muttville.
From Muttville’s inception, Sherri Franklin, its founder and CEO, wanted newly rescued dogs to come in, decompress and feel like they’re living in a cozy home. “Potential adopters can meet the dogs in a relaxed way, creating a magical moment and an adoption,” she says. “We aim to revolutionize the concept of an animal shelter.”
Highlights include the pink-tiled Glam Shampoochery, perfect for dog grooming makeovers, and playful bone-shaped benches with dog head dividers designed by eco-sculptor Colin Selig (@colinselig). The space also features vibrant fencing and gates crafted by artist Katie Wakeman (@shewelds_sf), while the outdoor Playland showcases a mural by Debra Walker (@dwalkersf).
Overstuffed and vibrant chairs highlight a welcoming space for senior dogs and their adoring adopters.
Bright, dog-friendly furnishings from Fulk’s collection have been reupholstered, and stunning overhead lamps illuminate the multipurpose community room. Inside the adoption center, the information board is inspired by Soho’s iconic Vesuvio Bakery, a charming touch in what is now one of the city’s most charming corners.
Photography by: DROID GALLUCI; DROID GALLUCI; ERIC LOUIS HAINES; ERIC LOUIS HAINES
