Family Mudroom Design

Family Mudroom Design

The family mudroom is, without question, one of the highest traffic areas in the home. It battles all sorts of external elements, from rain and snow to dirt and mud. It houses countless miscellaneous essentials, including shoes and boots, jackets, umbrellas, scarves and more. It is home to pet necessities and sporting equipment. It's where kids drop their backpacks and parents discard car keys or unload shopping bags.

For all these reasons, when planning the family mudroom design, it's important to select interior finishes wisely, maintaining organization while also personalizing the space for the entire family.

Select Smart Interior Finishes

Choose a satin or semi-gloss paint as opposed to a flat finish. These options make cleaning a much easier task. Also, if you've got pets and younger children in the home, consider selecting a darker wall color instead of a lighter one that will show even the slightest bit of dirt or discoloration.

Flooring will probably be the most critical decision you make regarding interior finishes for your family mudroom. Choose a weather-resistant surface that is also easy to maintain and keep clean. Ceramic tile, wood, or natural stone varieties such as slate make great durable options. Add an area rug at the entry for taking off soiled shoes and to help absorb moisture.

Organization Through Design

Individual lockers or cubbies for each family member are a great way to keep personal items separate and tidy. Large wall hooks are an inexpensive option for organizing jackets and handbags, and custom cabinetry or closets are fantastic if the budget permits.

A bench of some sort is a must for putting on shoes, and don't forget to utilize the space beneath for added storage. Wicker or cloth baskets come in a variety of sizes and colors and are a great way to keep scarves, hats or even pet toys organized in a stylish manner. Consider wire baskets or even galvanized tubs to capture a rustic, vintage look. Don't forget to use your vertical wall space for added shelving and additional orderly storage opportunities.

Key hooks ensure house keys and car keys are accounted for at all times and a central docking location is a great way to guarantee cell phones and tablets are charged up as family members rush out the door to begin their busy days.

Go Ahead, Personalize It

Organization doesn't have to be dull! Mudroom design for a family should take into account each family member and their individual needs and interests. If you decide to utilize personal cubbies or lockers, choose fun paint colors that complement each personality. Instead of labeling wicker or fabric baskets in a traditional manner, consider inserting photos of Dad, Sis or even Fido to define ownership in a fun way and further inspire tidiness.

When designing a mudroom for your family, remember to make wise decisions and remain organized. Be sure to have some fun in your selections as you create a personal yet functional space.