In years past mudrooms didn’t get the respect they deserve until modern home designs elevated this catch-all room to a brand new level. As the dumping ground for all things muddied and soiled mudroom floors are notorious for housing dirty clothes, shoes, boots, sporting equipment, wet umbrellas, backpacks, pet beds, and more. But those days are gone. Times have changed and so has their look and feel. But, their purpose hasn’t. A place for everything and everything in its place holds true for this second-entrance room that serves as a transitional entranceway.
Ready for a mudroom redo? With a handful of stylish décor tips and smart design choices you’ll be on your way to creating your ideal mudroom. And a room in your home where function and organization work in harmony together. Here’s our list of top essentials to think about before you begin.
Function and space
The best thing about a mudroom is that you can make them anything you want. For maximum potential consider how your family will use the space. Think about where you live and its climate. Is the weather typically cold or warm? Will you need a place for winter coats or just light jackets? What about hats and shoes? Or, will it be a space to keep everything organized so that all the necessary items for the day can be grabbed in a moment’s notice?
If you are moving into a new home the space most likely will already be designated. However, that doesn’t mean it will come equipped with all your needs. To keep you on task make a list. Then, arm yourself with a photo of the room and its dimensions. Is your room long and narrow, square, or wide? Pinterest and other popular websites like Houzz offer a multitude of ideas on how to get the most out of your space.
Storage, storage, storage
Just like function and space maximizing storage is the other part of the equation when designing a mudroom. Remember, it’s important to have storage pieces that will allow everyone to transition quickly in and out in a timely manner. And keep you organized. Do backpacks need their own space for easy access? Do the kids need a bench to put on and store their shoes? Is it necessary to keep your laptop by the door so you won’t forget it in the morning?
From cubbies to hall trees to overhead cabinets, L-shaped benches, baskets, and shelving there is no shortage of great storage products. Hall benches are not only aesthetically pleasing they are also multi-purpose pieces of furniture. Keep it simple. Choose one where everyone in the family has their own designated cubby. That way everyone is responsible for keeping their own things neat and tidy. Many are also equipped with hooks for hanging jackets and caps. Choose those benches that offer the maximum storage and closely match your needs.
A mudroom and laundry room—one space two purposes
Will the mudroom do double duty as the laundry room too? If the answer is yes, a washer and dryer is definitely a necessity. Do you plan to store laundry essentials such as detergents and bleaches? What about an ironing board? Is a utility sink also on your wish list? If you have the space it’s great to have. It will help to keep floors, pets, and dirty hands clean. If a sink is not already installed in the mudroom you most likely will have to consult with the builder. You can go one step further and make it a multi-purpose space by adding a desk for an office.
Select the right flooring
When it comes time to select the flooring consider safety first. Since this high-traffic area needs to stand the test of time, choose flooring that is safe, easy to clean, and durable. For safety concerns the flooring should be waterproof. Experts recommend installing ceramic tile, natural stone, or brick. Both natural stone and ceramic tile come in a multitude of colors and sizes for today’s modern home. And can be quite stylish if installed properly. It is extremely low maintenance. For easy clean-up usually a mop will do. Brick’s rustic feel can be a bit hard on the feet. However, it lasts forever without much need for replacing.
It’s all in the details
There’s nothing more fun than decorating a new space. So, don’t forget about your mudroom. Weave in your personal style with all your favorite things. Keep it bright with a multitude of textures. Adding modern patterned ceramic tile for floors and backsplashes keeps it trendy. Mix it up and have fun. Coordinate elements of farmhouse style with a few pieces of shabby chic, or strategically add a few vintage items in for a unique design to call your own. Decorative rugs and shoe and boot trays are functional but they can also add a bit of flair and charm. Or, truly make it your own by using your favorite color scheme.
Your perfect mudroom awaits in a new home in Travisso
Travisso offers state-of-the-art floor plans from award-winning premier builders. Choose homes ranging in size from 1,900 to over 5,000 square feet with prices starting in the 300s. And, there’s much more including resort style amenities, over 10 miles of proposed walking and biking trails, and a future 58 acre on-site regional park perfect for your active lifestyle. Visit us in Leander today and explore our new model homes and neighborhoods. For additional information call us at 512-243-8583.
