How to create a fun and functional mudroom or laundry room

A mudroom or laundry room is often used as an everyday entryway and a transitional space between the outside and inside of a home. But this drop zone can also be overlooked when remodeling or building a house.

One of the most important features to incorporate in any mudroom or laundry room design is plenty of storage.

Tall cubbies for sports equipment with sturdy hooks for hanging backpacks and outerwear are key.

Baskets provide additional storage and keep the space tidy, says Jessica Wachtel, interior designer at GTM Architects.

Maintain order by having a spot for each family member, including pets.

If space allows, Reineberg advises installing a free-standing or wall-mounted utility sink for rinsing off dirty boots and muddy cleats.

You can even incorporate a drip-dry station over a utility sink for hanging damp clothes. Nowadays homeowners are looking for a flat surface for sorting mail and opening boxes before entering the home. Consider installing a flat surface in the mudroom with a USB port for charging electronics, too.

Surfaces should be durable, but also can be fun.

A color combination like black and white makes a standout statement.

Textures, such as shiplap and wainscoting, or a bright wall color can add personality to this area.

A small space like a mudroom or laundry room gives homeowners the opportunity to be more creative in their design choices than they may be in a bigger space. Wachtel suggests adding pattern to the floor with graphic cement tiles.

In addition, easy to clean, skidproof and water-resistant flooring should be considered.