• How to Create a Functional and Beautiful Mudroom

  • Mudrooms were traditionally seen in farm and manor houses in the 1800s. It wasn’t until the 1950s that they became part of residential homes. Today, they remain a common feature of many homes and many homeowners who have a mudroom simply cannot live without it! 

    Reasons to Have a Mudroom  

    As its name suggests, mudrooms keep mud and other debris away from the living spaces of your home. It is especially useful on rainy and wet days when it can get very messy. That way, your family and guests won’t track dirt and moisture through any of the other areas of your home, which minimizes cleanup. For this reason, mudrooms are especially helpful for large families or families with pets and/or kids. Having a dedicated space to organize everyone’s outerwear and anything that only belongs outside (such as sports equipment) further helps keep clutter at bay.  

    This mudroom is filled with lots of items. // This Happy Housie via Houzz

    Good Locations for a Mudroom 

    While some main entrances may double as a mudroom, the mudrooms we are talking about are not commonly located at the main entrance because they exist to keep your main entrance mess-free and tidy. These mudrooms are typically at the side or rear of the home.  

    It makes sense to have a mudroom located adjacent to a garden or outdoor space (especially one with a pool) as gardening and outdoor activities can bring lots of dirt and water inside the house. Another possibility for people who park their car in the garage would be connecting the room to the garage.  

    Some homeowners have integrated their laundry room and mudrooms for a multi-functional combo room. This is a great idea for families who love the great outdoors or playing sports. Soiled items from a long day out can go straight into the washer! 

    This room is both a mudroom and laundry room. // Decorilla

    Built-in Cabinets, Shelving, and Other Storage Areas for Your Mudroom  

    Mudrooms are functional rooms that help catch dirt, but this doesn’t mean they can’t or shouldn’t be aesthetic. Like your kitchen and bathroom, your mudroom can also have custom-built cabinets and shelving. Built-in cabinets look expensive and add an additional design feature to your home. And you can match the design to your kitchen and/or bathroom cabinetry.  

    These cabinets can sit on top and/or to the side of a custom-built banquette or bench. Additional storage space can be arranged under the bench for items such as shoes. Finally, add some wall hooks for outerwear. We recommend an additional lower row of wall hooks for families with young children.  

    Both mudrooms feature beautiful built-in cabinets. // The Spruce via Lindsey Brooke Design and Mary Patton Design

    Seating for the Mudroom 

    We mentioned adding storage under the bench. That’s because a common feature of mudrooms is the addition of a sitting area used to put on and take off footwear. And there are many seating styles to choose from. Some benches are built into the cabinetry, others are standalone units that add contrast to the design.  

    An elegant mudroom with built-in padded seating. // Homes & Gardens via David Cleveland

    Choose Durable Materials 

    Not all materials are created equal. It is important to choose one that will stand the test of time in a high-traffic area such as the mudroom. Ensure your cabinets are finished well with a waterproof or water-resistant sealant or varnish.  

    Many types of flooring offered today have some water-resistant properties. Water-resistant means that it can withstand a reasonable amount of moisture. A few droplets or a small spill that is quickly cleaned up will likely not penetrate and damage it.  

    But we recommend upgrading to a stain-resistant, waterproof type of flooring for a mudroom. A material can only be labeled “waterproof” if water will not penetrate it at all. “Luxury vinyl” is a popular choice for waterproof flooring. If the floor material is light-colored, it is important for it to be easy to clean, because dirt and stains are more apparent on lighter-colored floors. 

    Additionally, a non-slip type of flooring is ideal for this area, especially if there is a chance it can come in contact with wet shoes. You can also put an easy-care, washable rug over your flooring. These types of rugs are designed to be flexible and easily tossed in the washer.  

    Marble tile and brick are two flooring options mudrooms that work! // Floor & Decor and Houzz via Archer and Buchanan Architecture

    Top if Off with Decor  

    We can never leave out any decorative elements as these accessories can turn a room from drab to fab. Don’t neglect to follow the overall design of your home when designing your mudroom. A touch of decorative lighting and wall art can do wonders for this space and transform it into a beautiful secondary entryway.

    We love the large chandelier, wallpaper, and wall art in this colorful mudroom! // HGTV Canada

    Make the Most of Your Space 

    Whether you have an existing mudroom that needs a refresh or you’re starting from the ground up, The Cabinet Doctors can help! We specialize in both cabinet refacing for existing cabinetry and building custom cabinets that take your design ideas to the next level. Get a quick estimate to see what we can do for you!  

    Featured Image Credit: California Closets Canada