Spring is here and with it comes warm sunshine, colorful flowers, and the occasional rainfall.  While the blooming buds outside are a sweet sight to take in, the dirty boots, wet outerwear, and muddy dog prints inside are not quite as appealing.  Organizing an effective spot to house the mud and mess is essential this time of year.  Just because it’s practical doesn’t mean it can’t be pretty.  Here are our top 3 design tips for this transitional space between the outdoors and your home:

1. Design with others in mind. Whether you have children or your children are your four-legged friends, design your hardworking mudroom entry with their needs in mind. Children are far more likely to hang their own bags and coats on a low hanging hook rather than inside a closet door. Incorporate a shallow bench (or two) into the floor plan so they can sit when removing muddy boots or suiting up for the outdoors.  A bench also has the added bonus of convenient storage underneath.  Dog kennels can take up so much floor space.  An indoor kennel built underneath a counter could be your pet’s new favorite spot.  Take a moment to consider your needs too. Do you need a quick and easy place to clean laundry? How about adding a farmhouse sink for gardening, cleaning crafts or hosing off pets? Try to include the greatest need for the greater good!

2. Master the mud with the right accents. Since mud, snow, and water will be dragged in from the outdoors, it is best to avoid wood floors. Consider installing outdoor elements that can withstand moisture such as slate, natural stone, porcelain tiles, brick, or polished concrete. Shield your floors from dirt with the addition of a polypropylene indoor/outdoor rug. Use a stain resistant and easy to clean fabric, such as Sunbrella, for your bench cushions and pillows.

3. Keep it as stylish as the rest of your home. Just because a mudroom takes care of dirty business doesn’t mean you should leave style out of the equation.  Allow the interior and details of your entryway to flow with the rest of your home.  Incorporate some color into your room, perhaps with a printed wallpaper or high contrast accents.  Create more storage and close off the clutter with some cubbies and tall cabinets. The addition of ambient lighting can also set the right mood and create an inviting space.  Bring some outdoor inspiration inside with some chevron slate tiles or glam it up with some marble countertops.  Design your mudroom as you would any other room in the house.

While your mudroom may not be on the top of your list of rooms to redesign, just remember – creating and organizing an effective space will help keep the remaining rooms in your home clear of unwanted dirt and moisture.

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