A great mudroom design should serve as both a durable and practical place to kick off your muddy boots (hence the name) as well as a warm and inviting entryway to your home. In a hardworking room like this, efficient design is important to ensure the space serves its purpose.
Whether you’re building from scratch, renovating, or looking to turn your existing entrance hall into a mudroom, these are the elements you need to include to create a functional and stylish space.
What is the difference between a foyer and a mudroom?
While a foyer is typically a more formal entryway, traditionally from the front door, a mudroom can often be found off the second entry – for example, a side door into a laundry, and is usually a more casual space.
1. Mudroom layout
You don’t need huge amounts of space to create a mudroom. If you use the space wisely, you’ll be amazed at what you can do with it.
The first thing you should do is think about how you want to use the space. Do you want a place to sit when you walk in the door? Where will you hang your bag or coat? Is there a place to put your keys? Is storage an important factor for you? Built-in wall storage is a great way to free up floor space so you can fit in a bench seat or hallway table – or both if you’re lucky!
Everyone’s boots have their own place in the mudroom of this lake house, which boasts plenty of built-in storage.
2. Mudroom storage
A mudroom is the perfect place to incorporate extra storage into your home. If you have a blank wall, use it! Decorative wall hooks are great for hanging coats, bags, hats etc. Don’t forget cubby spaces for small items such as keys, wallets, or mail. Floating wall shelves can make the space look interesting; just make sure they’re close to the door so they’re an easy drop-off and pick-up point.
A storage box that doubles as a seat is a great idea as it provides a place to hide shoes and other bits and pieces, as well as a place to sit and take off said shoes.
3. Mudroom seating
On seating – having somewhere to sit comfortably while taking off shoes and organising your things is an essential part of any mudroom design. A built-in bench seat with storage room within it helps make the most of a small space. Heavily textured or patterned fabric on the seat will bring warmth to the space and mask any dirty marks. An ottoman-style seat, or a moveable bench with storage under it, can work well too.
High storage, wall storage and under-bench storage is the perfect mix in this French-inspired farmhouse’s charming mudroom. (Photography: Brigid Arnott)
4. Flooring finishes for a mudroom
Carpet is a big no-no in mudrooms! In a high-traffic area like this durable flooring is a must; whatever you choose should stand up to stains, smears, and splashes, so choose what goes underfoot carefully. Concrete, tiles, brick (just remember to apply a coat of sealant), or an easy-to-clean laminate or engineered timber flooring are all great options for a mudroom. If you’re opting for tiles, you can pair them with a dark-toned grout to keep it looking smart for longer.
If your mudroom flows directly through to the rest of your home, you’ll want the floor to tie in seamlessly so remember to compare samples with your existing floor before you commit to a finish.
5. How to style a mudroom
From your front door right down to your doormat, if you want to create a good first impression, every little detail counts. Consider painting your front in a statement hue to brighten up the entrance to your home. Potted plants and a decorative doormat will also help to bring the space to life.
Concrete or stone flooring is a popular choice for mudrooms as it’s hardwearing, weatherproof and easy to clean. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)
6. Ventilation and light
A mudroom needs a central light so you aren’t rummaging around in the dark for keys or matching shoes. If you have a bench or sink, hang a pendant light over it to create a focal point. Make a small area feel bigger by adding a light- and view-reflecting mirror.
7. Should a mudroom have a sink?
A sink is a brilliant element to include if there’s enough space. Having a water source in the room allows you to wash your hands as soon as you come in, as well as quickly rinse dirty clothes and even hose down pets (if you have an oversized trough-like sink). Stainless steel, ceramic, and concrete are easy to wash down and keep clean.
However, water in your mudroom means ventilation is essential. Damp coats or equipment will grow mould if there’s no air flowing, so keep the windows or a door open when you can. If you don’t have windows, install an exhaust fan to keep the room fresh and dry.
This mudroom is both stylish and functional, decorated with Hunter gumboots lined up and ready for walking out on the farm and baskets used for picking produce. (Photography: Felix Forest)
8. Mudroom styling checklist
- Mirror: Placing a mirror in your mudroom will make it feel bigger than it really is and will also come in handy for any last-minute checks while you rush out the door
- Plant: Indoor plants bring the outdoors in and will keep your mudroom looking fresh and inviting.
- Rug: A rug is a great way to zone a room as well as adding comfort. An outdoor rug is a smart option for a hardworking room like this as it is durable and can be easily cleaned.
- Fresh flowers/scented candle: Delight the senses with a scented candle or some fresh flowers for an instant pick-me-up when you walk in the door.
- Lighting: A lamp you can leave on when you need is a great idea if you’re coming home in the dark.
