Image Credit: Chris Constantine
In Chicago’s slushy winters, a mudroom is a must in most homes. Not only do they provide a much-needed area for keeping winter shoes and coats, but they’re a rest stop that welcomes family and friends into your home.
For our readers who barely see snow, a mudroom is typically a room or area at the entrance of the home, whether it be the back or front door. They offer a place to unload bags and bulky coats, leaving the rest of the house tidier. Many of our recent clients have requested custom mudrooms, and we’ve since discovered five must-haves for them!
- A bench is an integral part of every mudroom. You need a place to comfortably take off muddy boots instead of tracking them all over the house! Benches are also simple and easy to clean, and they most importantly take up much less space than traditional chairs in a narrow walkway.
- Easy-access storage is a must, especially with kids. For the area to really work, storage needs to be simple. Using labeled baskets under the bench is a great start, along with an umbrella and shoe station.
- Don’t neglect the style of your home. A common mistake we see is that mudrooms are often thrown together with extra furniture from the attic or random pieces. The mudroom is the first impression of your home and needs to be in the same style and feel as the rest of your home. This can be accomplished by using the same materials and aesthetic.
- Account for furry friends. When planning the space, don’t forget your pets. This can be a great space to house a water and food station, leashes and treats for easy access before and after walks.
- Avoid clutter! Choosing storage pieces carefully can help you to avoid clutter. Try installing a small closet for coats and larger items for a more streamlined look, and ensure that storage baskets aren’t overflowing.
Creating a mudroom is a more complicated task than most anticipate, but it’s well worth the work! What does your dream mudroom look like? Show us your inspiration on our Facebook page.
