WHY MUDROOMS ARE YOUR NEXT STORAGE SOLUTION

We often overlook liminal spaces in our home because they are built exactly for that reason, to be transited through. The concept of a mudroom encourages us to transform our entryways into a stop-gap, where we can pause and organise ourselves before continuing on through the home. It’s practical, reduces mess and dirt, and offers an area to organise your things.

A mudroom is a space at the main entryway that gives you time to take off and store shoes, hang coats or keys, and keep frequently used items at arm’s length. They are typically placed either at the front or back of the house, close to the laundry or garage entrance. It primarily helps reduce the amount of outdoor mess that can track through the home while storing all the items you need for when you leave.

‘Mudroom’ is an American term detailing when farmers from days past owned large manors and needed a space to discard their stained clothes before entering the house. This was the norm for a lot of larger properties. In the 70s, the mudroom/laundry room combination became popularised as laundry spaces became more integrated into the conventional home instead of staying banished in basements. 

Today, the resurgence of the mudroom has come as we hyperfocus on design elements that can make the home a more functional and practical place. With that comes a keen eye for style. Modern mudrooms often are stylised to fit cohesively with the rest of the internal design scheme, offering a refreshed avenue for creative expression.

Adding a mudroom into the home usually needs to be done at the preliminary design stage, as it requires a bit of space. You don’t want your mudroom to feel like it’s making your main entrances feel claustrophobic. Though a small mudroom is possible, you just have to adopt a more minimal approach to your storage wishes.

Decide where a mudroom would work best in your home. This choice mainly comes down to how you need the space to work for you. Are you in need of somewhere close to the car to store your shopping bags, shoes and keys? Then perhaps a garage mudroom or front door mudroom is best. Do you need a space to dust off after working in the garden? Try building a mudroom near your back entrance or laundry.

Now for the fun part — designing. Here are some essential features we recommend to make the most of your mudroom.

CABINETRY WITH STYLISH CABINETRY HANDLES

Mudroom storage (especially mudroom shoe storage) is what makes this nook so impressive. It can help free up well-needed space in other cupboards and keep items in a location that flows better for your routine. As this area will be the most connected with the outdoors, make sure to choose durable cabinetry materials that are somewhat weatherproof to make it easier to clean. Avoid soluble materials like chipboard. 

As much as we need our mudrooms to be ultra-practical, infuse your personal style to make it truly feel like home. While a minor detail, cabinetry handles come in a wide range of designs and colours to fulfil your creative vision. 

Looking for cabinetry handles from ABI Interiors? Explore our entire selection here, including the ever-popular Imes Cabinetry Pull and versatile Hegman Collection.

COMFORTABLE SEATING

There’s nothing better than being able to sit down after a long day and taking off your shoes in a comfortable setting. It’s especially great in a mudroom where you can also store them away all in one go. Opt for bench seating where you can add extra storage underneath for maximum practicality. 

HANGING HOOKS

For smaller items like keys and hats, consider adding some hooks in your mudroom, so they hang in a convenient spot. 

Our robe hook range isn’t just for the bathroom. They can be used in mudrooms as a contemporary storage accessory. View our robe hooks here.

PRACTICAL LIGHTING

Whether you’re an early riser or a nightcrawler, overhead lighting in your mudroom is a godsend. Make it lively with an elegant wall sconce or a funky light fixture.