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.
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