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Mudrooms are the unsung heroes of home design! As the first line of defense against the outdoor elements, a well-designed mudroom keeps the rest of your home clean and organized. As custom home builders, we recommend a mudroom as a worthwhile addition for almost any build.

Whether you’re looking to create a colorful mudroom that adds a pop of personality or a minimalist transitional space that prioritizes function (or a blend of both), here are some essential features and ideas to consider.

Key Features to Include in Your Mudroom

1. Heated Floors Heated floors are a luxurious addition to any mudroom. They provide comfort, especially in colder climates, making it more pleasant to remove wet or muddy shoes. This feature also helps to dry out any dampness quickly, reducing the risk of mold or mildew.
2. Durable Flooring Durability is essential. The flooring needs to withstand heavy traffic, dirty shoes, and moisture. Vinyl plank flooring (seen in the Shorewood Project and the Deephaven Project) is a popular choice due to its resilience and the variety of styles to choose from. Tile flooring (see the Edina Project) is another excellent option, offering easy maintenance and a timeless look.
3. Bench Seating with Storage A bench with built-in storage is a must-have for any mudroom design. It provides both a convenient spot to sit while removing shoes and also additional storage. This keeps essential items like hats, gloves, and pet leashes within easy reach without the visual clutter. Check out the Deephaven Project for built-in bench inspiration!
4. Wet Area When it comes to mudroom ideas, we always recommend designating a wet area for managing messes. This space can include a drain, a sloped floor, and a waterproof surface to handle wet umbrellas, raincoats, and muddy boots without causing damage to the rest of the room.
5. Dog Wash Station For pet owners, a dog wash station is a game-changer. This feature makes it easy to clean your furry friends before they track dirt through the house. Check out the Minneapolis project to see one in action! It can also pull double duty as a place for washing off gardening tools or rinsing out sports gear.
6. The Drop Spot The drop spot provides a designated area for keys, mail, and other everyday items, ensuring they don’t get lost. Don’t forget wall hooks as a spot for coats! A mudroom is the perfect place to house loose but necessary items.
7. A Communication Center This can include a bulletin board, calendar, and charging station for phones and tablets, helping to keep your family organized and connected. While many people put something like this in the kitchen, the mudroom is a great alternative, keeping all the clutter of coming home in one spot.

Features to Avoid 

While almost anything can go in a mudroom, there are a few features to steer clear of:

1. Carpeting: Carpeting is impractical due to the high likelihood of mud, water, and dirt. It can quickly become dirty and difficult to clean.
2. Excessive Furniture: A mudroom is meant to be open, clean, and functional. Excessive furniture can restrict movement and reduce functionality. Keep to built-in shelves and mudroom benches to optimize hidden storage and furnish your mudroom!

Create Your Perfect Mudroom

Designing the perfect mudroom elevates any home. By including the right features (and avoiding the wrong ones) you can create a space that serves your family for years to come! With the right design elements, your mudroom can become the perfect blend of style and function.

Interested in remodeling your Minneapolis home? Contact us today!