Pet Paradise Review - DROICC - Book Nook Workshop

Build #153 Built & reviewed by D.J. Gibson

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The DROICC Pet Paradise is a miniature nook-style build depicting a small pet shop. The kit is constructed from printed MDF, printed and clear acrylic, and includes a simple lighting kit. The instructions are provided in full colour and are generally easy to follow, with only a couple of steps requiring closer attention. Construction relies primarily on tab-and-slot (mortise and tenon) assembly combined with the gluing of decorative components.

The build begins with the illuminated display case located at the rear of the shop. The included LED strip is the perfect length for the display cabinet and provides plenty of wire, allowing the remainder of the kit to be assembled without having to disconnect the lighting. The MDF pieces are easy to remove from their sheets, although I noticed that the green printed finish chipped from the edges of several parts. A green marker was sufficient to disguise the damage, but this shouldn’t really be necessary on a new kit.

Chipped wood which was covered with a marker

After completing the display cabinet and adjoining shelving unit, attention turns to the cat tree. Several sections must be wrapped with hemp cord to replicate scratching posts, adding a nice touch of realism. Once assembled, the cat tree attaches to the display case at one point and is otherwise glued directly to the floor. Care should be taken to ensure it does not encroach on the slots required later for the side wall installation.

With the main interior components completed, construction moves on to the exterior structure. The side walls are installed first, each featuring acrylic window panels printed with pet-themed graphics. Once these are in place, the ceiling panels and central crossbeam can be fitted.

The overhead light is installed during this stage. The instructions recommend wrapping the wire around the crossbeam, but I opted for a cleaner solution by gluing the lamp directly to the beam and securing the wire along the rear of the beam and side wall. This produced a tidier appearance while keeping the wiring discreetly hidden from view.

Once the second ceiling panel has been fitted, the wiring can be routed through the appropriate notches before installing the rear wall. The front wall follows, incorporating another printed acrylic window panel. The final structural components are the decorative wooden details and the shop sign, which complete the façade.

The final step involves fitting the exterior curtains. Personally, I wasn’t keen on their appearance. Not only did they obscure the view of the interior, but they also covered some of the attractive exterior detailing. Instead, I replaced them with additional vines and foliage, which helped soften the plain exterior while leaving the windows unobstructed. I also added shrubbery material to the front potted plants, while leaving the decorative wooden vines untouched. In my opinion, this created a much more appealing finished result.

Although smaller and quicker to build than a traditional book nook, I would still classify Pet Paradise as an intermediate-level kit. The interior offers limited opportunities for customisation due to the compact layout, but the exterior provides plenty of scope for personal touches and additional detailing.

Overall, the DROICC Pet Paradise is an enjoyable and attractive miniature build. Its pet shop theme is well executed, the lighting works effectively, and the compact size makes it a relatively quick project. Pet lovers in particular will find it a charming addition to their collection.

Summary