Nothing disrupts a household’s flow more than clutter, especially in the entryway.
Imagine that you enter your home and the first thing you see are items scattered all over the foyer’s floor. After taking a deep breath, you set a dripping umbrella down, pull off your boots, and then tiptoe around shoes and bags and jackets. As a result, every day you say, “I wish we had somewhere to put all of that stuff.”
The solution to your messy entry is a mudroom remodel.
What is a mud room? According to Merriam-Webster's, a mudroom is a room in a house designed especially for the shedding of dirty or wet footwear and clothing and located typically off the kitchen or in the basement. They are especially popular in regions that undergo seasonal weather changes, such as Pennsylvania.
Regardless of your climate or the size of your space, you’ll make your home’s entrance more functional and attractive by incorporating helpful features. Browse our top design advice to create your dream entryway on any budget.
Entryway flooring needs to be long-lasting, easy to clean, and attractive. Another thing to consider is installing radiant heat to make chilly toes nice and toasty. Here are several flooring options for your entry space.
Extra tip: A throw rug, made of a washable material and in a pretty pattern, is a practical way to add personality to your entryway.
A crucial element often overlooked in mudroom design is lighting. Several light sources should be installed in an entryway to provide the optimal function and ambiance.
Wall hooks and pegs provide a convenient place to hang up coats, hats, and backpacks. Also, they allow wet items to air-dry properly. Even small entry areas can benefit from adding a simple row of hooks.
Extra tip: Install multiple rows of hooks at varying heights to maximize wall space and encourage kids to hang up their gear.
A custom-built bench (or a folding stool for small spots) is helpful for putting on or taking off footwear. And benches with a flip-up seat provide extra hidden storage.
Extra tip: Put a boot tray underneath to catch drips and keep your floor clean.
The ultimate mudroom for a busy family features a set of floor-to-ceiling cubbies or lockers. Most noteworthy, built-in storage units maximize every available inch and add value to your home. Designate one for each family member so everyone has their own area.
Cold weather outerwear such as hats, gloves, and scarves need to go somewhere: Bins and baskets help corral the clutter. In addition, you can safely stash bulky items like ice melts, litter box filler, and pet food in airtight containers.
If space permits, enclosed storage is a great place to hide bulky and off-season items. And, if you prefer a modern look, closets provide a more streamlined design.
Homeowners want laundry machines in more practical places than their basement. As a result, combination mud / laundry rooms are now common. Think of the convenience: Family members can drop their dirty duds directly into a washing machine instead of dragging dirt through your entire home.
By its very nature, a mudroom attracts dirt. Therefore, it only makes sense to include a feature that minimizes the mess. An entryway sink is useful for washing your hands after working outdoors, cleaning up crafts, and soaking stains.
Because a mudroom is often the easiest space to clean, you may want to make it your pet’s main hangout place. Here are some ideas for a pet-friendly entry.
In conclusion, you can transform any size entry into a stylish and well-organized drop spot by incorporating smart design elements. An experienced designer will listen to your needs, evaluate your space, and suggest products and layouts that will make the most of your resources.
Are you having trouble envisioning what your mudroom could look like? We can help with that: Computer generated images will enable you to see your beautiful new entryway.
The professional design and installation team at Harrisburg Kitchen and Bath are ready to get you started on your dream mudroom. Contact us today.
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Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling in Harrisburg, Hershey, Mechanicsburg, Hummelstown, Camp Hill, Boiling Springs, and Lewisberry
Industry Experience: My father has run his own construction company since 1992, and because of this I have been involved in the remodeling industry nearly my whole life. I’ve been with HKB since 2018.
Favorite Part of Your Job: I truly love helping people – whether by keeping things organized behind the scenes, ensuring we have everything we need for each project, or assisting with creative problem-solving. It brings me so much joy to be part of such a great team who are passionate about improving people’s lives by reimagining their living spaces!!
Fun Fact About You: I’m a self-published author, a self-taught artist, and a gigantic Star Wars nerd.
Industry Experience: Starting in 2008, I have been in the construction and remodeling industry in multiple capacities: project coordination, management, design, and sales. I have been with HKB since 2020.
Favorite Part of Your Job: I greatly enjoy getting to know our customers and being a part of their kitchen and bath transformations. It’s an honor to be a trusted partner and see the impact that our team's hard work has on someone’s home.
Fun Fact About You: I’ve tap danced nearly my whole life and have been awarded national recognition. I’ve also recently added dance instructor to my tap experience by teaching and choreographing locally for the last two years.
Industry Experience: I have been in the business as a designer and sales person since 1986, and I have been with HKB since 2020.
Favorite Part of Your Job: To be challenged to create something the homeowner never expected and absolutely loves!
Fun Fact About You: Enjoys golfing, playing poker, and cigars!
Industry Experience: Since entering the kitchen & bath industry in 1988, I have worked in all aspects of the industry including manufacturing, design/sales, representing independent manufacturers, and owning a retail kitchen & bath showroom. I have been working with or employed by Harrisburg Kitchen & Bath since 2020.
Favorite Part of Your Job: Helping customers make their dream spaces come to life! Especially enjoy working with older homes from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Fun Fact About You: I enjoy traveling to other parts of the world. Most recently visited Australia in 2019. I have been to all continents except Antarctica! Next on my bucket list.