Born in Melbourne, Loved Worldwide

Taoqimiao was born in early 2024 in a sun-lit studio in Fitzroy, Melbourne. Our founders โ€” a team of four industrial designers, a veterinary behaviorist, and two very opinionated cats named Mochi and Brisket โ€” set out to reimagine what cat furniture could be.

We were tired of the compromise: beautiful furniture that cats ignore, or functional cat trees that look like they belong in a garage. We believed it was possible to create cat furniture that's genuinely stunning โ€” pieces that enhance your home while giving your cat the enrichment they deserve.

The name Taoqimiao is a playful blend of three concepts: Tao (The Way), Qi (Wonder), and Miao (Meow). It embodies our philosophy โ€” designing with intention, creating with wonder, and always remembering who we design for: magnificent, mysterious, meowing companions.

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Tao ยท Qi ยท Miao

The Way ยท Wonder ยท Meow


Our name reflects our philosophy: there is a profound way to create with wonder, guided by the joyful spirit of the cat.

Our Mission & Values

We believe that great design should serve everyone in the household โ€” including the ones with four paws.


Design Excellence

Every product starts with hundreds of sketches, 3D prototypes, and real-world testing with actual cats (including our resident testers, Mochi and Brisket). We don't ship anything we wouldn't put in our own homes.

Planet First

We use FSC-certified wood, recycled materials, and plant-based dyes. Our packaging is 100% recyclable, and we offset all shipping emissions. It's not just a policy โ€” it's who we are.

Cat-Centric

Our team includes a certified feline behaviorist who consults on every design. We study how cats climb, scratch, rest, and observe to create products that truly serve their needs.

Milestones & Moments


Jan 2024

The Spark

Four designers in a Fitzroy co-working space sketch the first Taoqimiao prototypes while their cats, Mochi and Brisket, test everything in real time.

Apr 2024

First Collection Launch

The Classic Collection launches with 5 products. The Alpine Retreat sells out in 48 hours after a viral Instagram post featuring Brisket.

Jul 2024

International Expansion

We begin shipping to Europe, UK, and North America. Partnering with sustainable logistics providers to minimize our carbon footprint.

Oct 2024

Luxe Collection Debut

The Luxe Collection launches to critical acclaim. The Velvet Summit is featured in Architectural Digest's "Pet Furniture That's Actually Chic" roundup.

Mar 2025

Playful Collection & 50K Milestone

We launch the Playful Collection for active cats and celebrate serving 50,000 happy cats worldwide. Our shelter donation program reaches 200 shelters.

2025+

The Future

Expanding our sustainability initiatives, developing new product lines, and continuing our mission to make every cat's life a little more wonderful.

Meet the Humans (and Cats)

A diverse team of designers, engineers, and cat enthusiasts united by a shared passion for creating extraordinary feline furniture.


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Lena Chen

Co-Founder & Design Director

Former IKEA product designer with a passion for making pet furniture beautiful.

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James Mitchell

Co-Founder & CEO

Sustainable business advocate and proud cat dad to two Maine Coons.

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Dr. Amara Singh

Feline Behaviorist

Certified animal behaviorist ensuring every design serves cats' natural instincts.

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Mochi & Brisket

Chief Testing Officers

Our resident cats who test (and occasionally nap on) every prototype.

Recognition & Awards


Architectural Digest

"Pet furniture that's actually chic โ€” Taoqimiao proves cat trees can be beautiful."

Good Design Award

Winner of the 2024 Australian Good Design Award in the Product Design category.

Monocle Magazine

"A Melbourne startup redefining the intersection of pet products and interior design."

Ready to Explore Our Collection?

Find the perfect cat tree that matches your home and delights your cat.

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