7 Entryway/Mudroom Ideas That Elevate Your Space AND Make the Most of It!
Entryways can make or break a first impression, literally as soon as you walk through the front door. But how do you maximize a (potentially) small space while still maintaining the look of your home?
A mudroom is just that: a “drop zone” for family members when they enter the house (muddy or not). It’s home to boots, coats, and shoes kicked off willy-nilly — but it doesn’t have to look that way!
Here are some easy entryway and mudroom storage ideas that look the part and help keep you organized, too!
1. Install Open Shelving
Open shelving is a great way to add style and organization to your entryway, plus, it can double as both storage space and a display opportunity.
As opposed to built-in cabinetry, open shelves make the room feel more spacious. Use them as a bookshelf or display your framed pictures to help the space feel cozy and inviting as soon as you step through the door.
Can’t find a shelf you like in stores or online? Why not try your hand at making your own? Floating shelves are an easy DIY project – simply pick out your favorite species of S4S lumber, cut to size, sand, stain (or paint), add some shelf brackets…and voilà! You have your very own, CUSTOM shelves!
2. Add Some Cubbies
Cubbies are a great way to organize small items. They can be built into the wall or be a standalone piece. Either way, cubbies are a great storage option for hats, gloves, scarves and more.
Little ones have a place to put all their things (including backpacks and toys), and bottom cubbies for shoe storage free up floor space and prevent dirt and mud from being tracked throughout the home. Many people choose to organize cubbies by family members, with each person getting their own space to use however they need.
Similar to cubbies, lockers are a great storage option for your entryway if you’d rather keep things hidden.
3. Hang Coat Hooks/Coat Racks
Searching for a super easy space saver? Install a coat rack next to the door and leave it at that — it’s a functional piece that fills up wall space and adds a place for family members and guests to hang their outerwear, scarves, hats, and even umbrellas. But what if a store-bought coat rack doesn’t fit your mudroom design ideas?
This too can be an easy DIY project for homeowners looking to create a custom focal point. As with the open shelving, simply pick your favorite species of S4S lumber, cut to size, sand, add some decorative trim, stain/paint and install! You can even utilize multiple hooks or racks at different heights (short ones are great for pet leashes or kids’ backpacks). It’s a unique way for family members and guests to keep their coats organized!
4. Build a French Cleat Wall Organizer for Sports Equipment
Similar to storing tools in your garage, you can store all that sports equipment easily by creating a French cleat wall storage system. Use hooks and pegs to hang your baseball bats, tennis rackets, and lacrosse sticks. Add custom containers for helmets and bags. It’s an entryway idea that’s guaranteed to free up valuable space AND keep you organized.
We recently completed a similar Build It With Baird project – our DIY French Cleat Shelf – where we used this sturdy system to house tools for our workshop. This great project can easily be adapted for storing your sports equipment.
Follow along with our video tutorial for materials used and tools needed!
5. Decorate!
Not all entryway ideas have to be a storage solution. If you don’t need the storage space, use your mudroom as an introduction and first impression for your home. Decorate using mirrors to create a space where family members and guests alike can make one final check before walking out the door.
Add a memo board or calendar and then you have a go-to spot in your entryway for reminders and family events. When it comes to the walls themselves, try shiplap! Light-colored shiplap in your mudroom brightens the space, making it feel more inviting and less cramped.
6. Add a Console Table
Adding a console table is a great way to make the most of your space, adding a much-needed table top to your entryway (and a great place to drop off your keys). Use baskets (wicker, metal, bins, plastic – you name it!) to store various items easily. Or even utilize this space for seasonal items like decorations.
Console tables are especially helpful for combination mudrooms and laundry rooms. Use the console space underneath the table as a place to store laundry baskets and folded towels.
7. Incorporate a Storage Bench
Adding a bench to your entryway is another way to make the space feel more useful. Use the bench as a place to lay your coats or sit down as you put your shoes on before walking out the door. Want to add some design elements? Simply add seasonal throw pillows!
Take this idea up a notch by making your own mudroom storage bench! Not only does it add functionality, but it also creates an unforgettable first impression for your space.
Our free mudroom bench plans include open shelving (to store outerwear, scarves, hats, and other accessories) and paneling, which offers an opportunity to add some color to your entryway by painting it any color you like!
Check out our video tutorial and build this unique piece of furniture for yourself!
Entryway and Mudroom Ideas for Any Home!
If you’re looking for inspiration to get organized, these entryway and mudroom ideas are a great place to start! Simply buy some shelving, add a table or create your own unique pieces (like our mudroom bench and French cleat wall storage systems)!
No matter what you choose, it will make you feel good having a space for your family’s items, whether they’re big or small.
