Boston mudroom with slate tile floor by Jan Gleysteen Architects, Inc. Photo by Sam Gray.

Mudrooms are now one of the most popular remodel additions. Whether they’re the size of a small bedroom or a slim hallway, these spaces have evolved into highly functional, hardworking spaces. So, how do you design a mudroom that will stand up to the rigorous requirements of today’s busy families?

They key to making a solid mudroom is choosing materials that will withstand day-to-day wear and tear. Think of the mudroom as a very casual foyer. You want it to have visual appeal, but you also need to make sure it will contain all of the mud, dirt, shoes, coats, backpacks, mail, keys, and whatever else gets tracked into the house—before it can go any further into the home.

Durability needs to be the key focus. The best mudrooms are made with materials that can be easily cleaned, mopped, washed, or even hosed down if needed. Use materials that are made to last and easy to maintain. When it comes to flooring, for example, the less porous a material is, the better. Porcelain tile is one of the best low-maintenance options. And if you’re a fan of wood floors, you’ll find on the market many options for tiles designed to mimic the look of wood. If you’re a fan of natural stone, you may want to consider slate. It’s very durable, won’t show wear as much as other surfaces (such as natural wood, for example) and it’s pretty easy to clean.

When it comes to painting a mudroom, be sure to use something that can be cleaned. You’ll want to be able to wipe it down with a wet cloth regularly. Semi-gloss finishes are a good choice, but sometimes their reflectivity causes them to magnify subtle nicks and bumps. A satin, eggshell, or flat paint can help camouflage them a bit. But remember: wood is easier to wipe down than bare walls. For this reason, a lot of folks use beadboard, or another type of wainscoting around the perimeter of a mudroom. There is a new trend of using Shiplap inside as well.  These materials can add visual interest while making the walls easier to clean.

If you’re creating a mudroom with a bench, be sure to use fabrics that will stand up to dripping umbrellas, melting snow, and whatever else Mother Nature throws out. Sunbrella fabrics are a good choice. Moreover, make sure that any surface in the mudroom will stand up to the elements when they’re brought inside.
Keep in mind that the mudroom needs to be easily accessible, practical, and highly functional. You can make it attractive with various décor elements (such as art, family photos, and even furniture pieces) but don’t lose sight of the overall utilitarian function of a mudroom.

Want to see the top surfaces that we recommend? Visit us at one of our two New England area showrooms. Or call Marble & Granite, Inc. at 877-39-STONE.