Mudroom Must-Haves
February 7, 2018
Decorating Mudrooms is one of the most utilitarian spaces that can be in your home. They hold coats, boots, sports equipment, shoes, dog food, and the list could go on and on. The space needs to accommodate all sorts of items, often in a small footprint.
But just because the mudroom should be functional with lots of storage and a well-thought-out design doesn’t mean it shouldn’t have decor elements to keep it looking pleasant. After all, the mudroom is usually one of the first spaces your guests will see when entering your home.
Multiple Forms of Mudroom Storage
If you have a large family or even a modestly sized family, you know that the pile of coats, backpacks, shoes, and other paraphernalia can pile up by the door, even despite your pleas to “pick it up and put it away.”
There should be varying forms of storage. Some are easy “grab-and-go” style storage and others allow for more long-term storage to be taken out only when needed.
In terms of organizing the multitude of sweatshirts, jackets, and other outerwear, many homeowners go with the built-in look of cubbies with many hooks. This allows family members to easily hang up said outerwear upon entering the house and grab it when leaving. Each family member should have their own cubby to separate items and keep everything conveniently organized.
In addition to the hooks, consider vertical storage for items that are only needed at certain times of the year such as snow boots or snowsuits. These can be hidden away in storage bins above cubbies and brought only when needed.
A Mudroom Seating Area
If space allows in your mudroom consider installing a bench or chair where family members can sit to put on shoes or unpack a backpack. The addition of this element to a mudroom can be a real game changer especially if you don’t like to balance on one foot whilst putting on a shoe or have little ones learning to tie a shoe!
Lots of Lighting
Light is essential in home design, especially in mudrooms and entryways. It helps the space feel brighter, airy, and more open, and it makes it easier to keep clean and healthy.
If your mudroom doesn’t have much natural light, add overhead lighting, a lamp, or both. A chandelier or hanging fixture can be a beautiful focal point. Accent lighting can also add warmth and welcome. If your door has transom windows, portholes, or sidelights, let them in natural light. Picture lights can highlight artwork, and wall sconces provide both form and function.
Overhead Lighting
A flush mount light fixture or recessed downlights are good options for overhead lighting. Choose a fixture that is the right size for your space and that provides enough light for your needs.
Lamps
A table lamp or floor lamp can add additional light to a mudroom. Place a lamp on a table or in a corner to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Accent Lighting
Accent lighting can be used to highlight specific features in your mudroom, such as artwork, mirrors, or storage cabinets. Picture lights, track lighting, and wall sconces are all good options for accent lighting.
When choosing light fixtures for your mudroom, consider the overall style of the space. You want to choose fixtures that complement the other décor in the room. You should also choose fixtures that are durable and easy to clean.
Add a Table
Even a small corner table or place to drop keys is needed in most mudrooms. This table can also include drawers for items like sunscreen, gloves, and other necessities as you surrey out the door. Be sure to choose a table that will allow you to have a little more storage as well as allows for some decor items like baskets.
Add a Mirror
It may seem like vanity, but it’s always a good idea to have a mirror that can be accessed before you head out. It’s a place to tackle one last look at an outfit or be sure your hair is behaving.
What items do you have in your mudroom that you can’t live without? Visit our blog on paint colors that are a good choice for a mudroom to inspire your decorating!
Color Choices for your Mudroom
Now that you have all the hooks to hang coats, bins to store sweatshirts, cubbies for boots, drawers for the gloves, and baskets to organize the sporting equipment, it is time to choose a color that makes the space a true mudroom. This choice should take into consideration adjoining rooms as well as the amount of light in the area. Also consider if you want a bold color choice or muted neutral for the mudroom. We suggest choosing one color for the main area and accent with a splash of color on baskets, bins, or cushions for the seating area.
Do you need help planning and painting your dream mudroom? Call Jerry Enos Painting at 978-546-6843, or visit our website to find out more.
Categorised in: Decorating, Design, Interior painting, Jerry Enos