A mudroom entryway is not only a place to walk through; it also helps establish the atmosphere for the rest of your home. Do you have trouble making sure your home is tidy and neat just after you walk in the door? Wondering how to infuse style into this utilitarian spot? I’ll present you with entryway ideas that blend beauty and practicality in this article. Find out how you can use shiplap walls and beautiful flooring to separate the outdoors from your home.
Welcoming First Impressions: Designing a Mudroom Entryway by the Front Door
To maintain order and create a nice first impression, it’s important to design a mudroom just inside the front door. I prefer to consider this area part of the home’s identity, making sure it is both practical and attractive. It is best to have transitional flooring such as porcelain tile or waterproof vinyl, to stop dirt from entering your home. If you add smart storage to your mudroom entryway, guests and family will have a convenient place to put their bags, coats and shoes without making your living area messy.
I always add a wall-mounted closet system or built-ins that function as mini-lockers for all members of the household in this type of space. A bench below the storage units lets you sit while putting on your shoes and also has drawers hidden underneath. Above, you can use open cubbies to show off baskets or extra accessories. The entry can look nice with a modern pendant light, a rug that matches your home’s colors and hooks for things you use daily.
I have found that clients are most happy when their mudroom entry serves a purpose and looks nice. Most of the time, HGTV designers advise using different textures and strong materials to ensure the room looks well-designed, rather than thrown together. I think it’s a great idea to choose natural wood or slate, as well as warm lighting, to make the area feel less industrial.
I’d also recommend adding motion sensor lights and a spot for your keys with wireless charging at the end of this section. It’s a modern touch that enhances daily convenience.
Rustic Charm With Shiplap Walls in Your Mudroom Entryway
If I want to give my mudroom entryway some warmth and texture, I use shiplap. The horizontal wood panels quickly give the space a warm and orderly look. No matter if they are painted or left unfinished, shiplap walls add a touch of design to any entryway. They’re also useful—they don’t show scuffs and are perfect for households with kids or pets.
I often match shiplap with classic wooden benches, wrought iron hooks and decorative wire baskets or hanging lanterns. The combination of bright painted planks and warm wood adds the popular modern farmhouse look. Adding a row of cubbies in the wall will allow you to create custom spaces for coats and equipment. Add labels for each family member to maintain order.
I’ve personally chosen shiplap as a backdrop in various projects where the mudroom needed some architectural improvement without making the space feel crowded. Better Homes & Gardens says that using shiplap can help make walls look longer and ceilings seem higher which is perfect for narrow entryways.
For an even better design, add board-and-batten under the shiplap to create a unique texture. It’s bold and refined at the same time.
Smart Storage Solutions: The Mudroom Entryway Closet
If space is limited, a custom mudroom entryway closet can make a big difference in a home. I make sure these closets have doors, so you can keep your home looking clean in an open-concept design. The closet is best placed just by the front door, so it can store jackets, umbrellas and sports equipment.
If it’s possible, I design a closet with different storage levels, including rods for coats, shelves for shoes and baskets inside for accessories. Adding character to your kitchen is easy with mirrored or shaker doors and dividers make it look organized. If you have the space, I suggest setting up a mudroom entryway bench next to your closet to make a complete command center.
In our house, putting in a concealed closet made our mudroom look much neater. The Spruce advises using flexible shelves and placing lights inside the closet to make it more useful. These are small touches that make a major difference.
I would still say a pull-out drawer system at the bottom is a good idea—it allows you to store things you use often without opening the whole door.
Comfort and Utility: Choosing the Perfect Mudroom Entryway Bench
The mudroom entryway bench isn’t just a seat; it’s the most important part of the room. The first thing I do is plan for a bench since it holds the room together. Whether it’s built-in or freestanding, a sturdy bench offers a place to sit, drop bags, and store shoes out of sight. Having a cushion or some throw pillows aside gives the couch a cozy impression.
I think it’s best to have benches with drawers or lift-up seats in a family home. A bench with beadboard framing or placed between cubbies helps separate the room and keep everything neat. You can add soft textiles to the top and use framed art or seasonal wreaths to finish the wall around the bench area.
The bench is the feature I see used most often in a well-planned mudroom entryway. Real Simple points out that built-in storage in a bench allows you to use the space more efficiently. Having shoe trays or boot mats under the bench has helped me reduce morning chaos by half.
Having a coat hook rail placed above the bench would mean you could just pick up your items and go, while still keeping the wall balanced.
Accentuating Style With Mudroom Entryway Decor
Making your mudroom entryway look good is about blending usefulness with your own style. You can make your space more interesting and share a message with your design. I tend to keep the essentials in the mudroom simple and then add more interest with art, vases, mirrors or sculptural hooks. Everything should look intentional but remain practical.
I love to use floating shelves on the wall—they help you save space and let you display plants, photos or baskets. Rugs can add pattern and softness to your floor, especially when you have tile or stone. I like to use lighting such as sconces or hanging pendants, to create atmosphere, even in tiny spaces.
I’ve learned that great decor in the mudroom encourages people to maintain the space better. Elle Decor suggests that bringing in family photos and vintage accessories makes this area homier and less like a place just for storage. That’s advice I take seriously when styling.
To take this further, consider adding seasonal decor swaps. Changing the color and texture of your throws with the seasons helps ensure your room stays cheerful all year round.
Embrace the Aesthetic of a Modern Farmhouse Mudroom Entryway
If you’re like me and love the blend of old and new, a modern farmhouse mudroom entryway hits the sweet spot. I create these spaces by choosing neutral colors, using rustic wood, adding black iron hardware and using several textures. Choose white walls, oak finishes and industrial hooks—this style is great for both fashion and simplicity.
In this space, you’ll find a shiplap wall with a painted finish, a live-edge wood bench and cubbies with galvanized bins. The style is laid-back yet stylish, with things like a handmade wall sign, a pair of vintage boots or linen storage bins. Both rough and smooth materials make the room look both cozy and sophisticated.
One of my favorite projects was turning a basic entry hallway into a mudroom entryway farmhouse feature that the owners are happy to display. Southern Living points out that a successful modern farmhouse design achieves this by combining what is useful with what tells your own story—beginning with the materials and layout.
I always think a jute or wool runner rug is a good addition, as it feels warm and helps tie the space together.
Creating a Bright and Open Mudroom Entryway Layout
There’s no doubt that a cheerful and spacious mudroom entryway adds a lot of value. A home with natural light, an open design and few clutter looks and feels much larger and more refreshing. I accomplish this by using soft paints such as muted sage, pale gray or cream, along with glass doors or windows that let in lots of light.
Minimalism is your friend in these spaces. I choose to hang things on thin hooks rather than having large racks and I prefer benches with long legs that don’t block the view below. Tall lockers or cabinets are used for storage, so there’s more room on the floor for people to move around. Mirrors bounce light around which makes mudrooms look more open and airy.
In cases where clients want their spaces to be open and practical, I’ve used tall white cabinets to increase storage without closing off the room. Following Apartment Therapy’s tip, I’ve found that reflective surfaces and cool colors really do make a room feel larger.
To take it one step further, I’d choose to place a skylight or transom window over the front door to fill more light into any enclosed mudroom areas.
Functional and Beautiful Mudroom Entryway Flooring Options
The right flooring for your mudroom entryway should be both attractive and tough. With heavy use, dirt and moisture every day, the material should be tough and still look good. I usually recommend luxury vinyl plank, natural stone or sealed ceramic tiles since they are water-resistant. These materials are both strong and available in many finishes that work with any type of design theme, from modern farmhouse to coastal.
I often suggest darker tiles that hide dirt well and I like to match them with grout that creates a striking contrast. If the home is traditional, a herringbone brick tile floor gives it a rustic, elegant look. A good way to soften a hard floor is by laying a washable runner or welcome mat in a matching color.
We chose slate-style vinyl planks and installed radiant heat underneath in one of my best designs, making it both practical, easy to care for and very comfortable. House Beautiful recently pointed out that using indoor-outdoor rugs in mudrooms helps keep floors clean and last longer. I always put on the last layer to make sure everything looks new.
Many times, there isn’t a small tiled inset by the front door where you can leave your dirty boots or wet umbrellas without damaging the floor. It’s simple but incredibly practical.
Bringing Elegance Into the Mudroom Entryway Space
Most people don’t think of elegance in a mudroom, but I’m convinced every area should be polished, even those for utility. If I want the mudroom to be elegant, I use premium materials, arrange things symmetrically and pick a few similar colors. Consider having sharp white walls, paneled millwork and brass or matte black hardware. Lighting is also very important—adding a traditional or transitional chandelier or sconce can change the whole look of the room.
An upholstered bench, a console table with carvings or artwork in frames help complete the look of this space. The decor is well planned too—bowls for keys, trays for mail and tall vases with seasonal plants all help make entering the home more special.
One time, we made a basic side entry into a stylish antechamber by adding deep navy walls, white wainscoting and brushed gold decorations. Martha Stewart Living suggests using both useful and attractive materials in areas that get a lot of use and I completely agree. It’s all about small luxuries in smart places.
I’d suggest adding a bit of scent to the space by using diffusers or essential oils on the shelves.
Coastal-Inspired Mudroom Entryway for a Breezy Look
A mudroom entryway near the coast makes the whole house feel more refreshing. The design is based on beach houses, so it’s great for making your entrance both comfortable and practical. I begin with light colors such as blue, beige and white and add things like rattan, driftwood or linen to create texture. The aim is for the collection to feel casual and relaxed yet ready for everyday wear.
You should have a shiplap wall, woven bench cushions and natural fiber rugs in your space. I enjoy putting sea glass colors in my storage bins or hooks and using framed coastal maps or shells in shadow boxes. The floor should be able to handle moisture, so wood-look tiles or stone add the finishing touch.
For my lakefront mudroom last year, we picked sheer linen curtains, cane-front cubbies and nautical rope for the hooks—it looked great and was easy to use. Coastal Living reports that adding regional texture and color to mudrooms is becoming popular, mainly in vacation homes.
You could add some open shelves to hold beach hats, flip-flops or baskets, so the homeowner always sees reminders of summer and finds it easier to switch between seasons.
Traditional Touches With Wainscoting in the Mudroom Entryway
Putting up wainscoting in a mudroom entryway gives the area a classic look and a well-organized feel. I treat it as a light architectural touch that gives the space more character. Wainscoting, no matter if it’s beaded board, raised panels or flat recessed molding, helps keep the lower half of the wall clean and safe from scuffs and moisture.
I usually paint the lower wainscot in a semi-gloss durable finish (like navy or dove gray) and pair it with a lighter tone on top. I’ll hang up coat hooks or small artwork just above the trim. A bench at the bottom grounds the arrangement and a rug and overhead pendant unite the area. You can use this classic design in any type of home, whether it’s modern or traditional.
I have found that wainscoting in the mudroom can make new parts of a house fit in with the original architecture. According to Southern Living, making use of traditional millwork can unify the look between old and new elements in a home. It’s one of the best ways to unify different home styles.
Often, there is no narrow shelf above the wainscoting rail, but this is a perfect place for mini plants, mail trays or a few discreet hooks.
Combining Laundry Room Ideas With Your Mudroom Entryway
Combining your laundry room with a mudroom entryway is a smart way to use less space. I’ve noticed that many modern homes now mix practicality with comfort. Because of its high-function flooring and built-in closet systems, this area remains clean and makes it easier to do household tasks. This space becomes warm, stylish and very practical, all at the same time.
Most of the time, I suggest putting a washer and dryer together behind custom cabinetry, next to a bench with storage beneath the seat. Include upper shiplap cabinets for your detergents and add wall hooks for your coats. A countertop for laundry helps to make the space even more useful. If you have an active family or pets, a deep sink or a dog-wash station will make cleaning up much easier.
In my opinion, this combo space is a game-changer. House Beautiful explains that a dual-use mudroom helps organize the home by bringing all household tasks into one area. That’s why I always suggest homeowners consider this during any renovation—it’s the perfect blend of utility and aesthetics.
It would be even better if you put soundproofing materials between the mudroom and the rooms next to it. Softening the noise from your laundry appliances can help keep your home calm.
What Makes the Perfect Mudroom Entryway? Essential Design Principles
A great mudroom entryway is both beautiful, well-organized and practical. I see it as the space that introduces your home to visitors, separating the outdoors from the indoors. I always use sturdy materials, organize smartly, keep things looking the same and make the most out of every space. This design helps your mudroom entryway serve its purpose as well as look nice.
Having wall-mounted cubbies, a bench and a vertical closet gives you instant order in your entryway. I think it’s important to have the right flooring; I choose slate or porcelain tile with a matte finish to keep the area safe from slips. Adding wainscoting or shiplap will make the room more interesting and you can finish the look by using natural light and warm-colored paint.
Whether the home is small and in the city or large and on a farm, I’ve found that the design must always be practical. According to Shea McGee, the home should always combine form and function. This is especially the case for areas that are in between, like the mudroom.
I’d suggest installing a light that turns on automatically when someone passes by which is useful when you’re carrying things. An area to charge phones and gadgets inside the house is a desirable detail for many families today.
Clever and Stylish Mudroom Entryway Ideas for Every Home
No matter the size of your home, a well-designed mudroom entryway is useful. I have come up with smart solutions for entryways in tight hallways, empty corners and garage areas. It’s important to identify unneeded space and create storage for it. Choose slim cubbies, sliding doors or fold-down bench seating for areas that are not very big.
If you have a small space, I suggest a mudroom bench with storage for shoes and shelves above for storing hats and bags. A shiplap paneled or wainscoted wall gives your room visual appeal without becoming crowded. A statement rug can keep your floor safe and also add style to the room. Adding wall-mounted baskets and mirrors can make your room look deeper and more useful.
I believe clever doesn’t mean complicated. At times, all you need is to set things up wisely and use good materials. A recent feature in Southern Living noted that mudrooms are now being styled as mini living spaces—and I couldn’t agree more. A few stylish decor pieces will make your room perfect.
I’d also suggest adding a narrow pull-out cabinet for storing vacuum cleaners or sports equipment. It hides clutter and makes use of the space above.
Creating the Ultimate Mudroom Entryway Farmhouse Experience
Those who like the modern farmhouse style will be drawn to a mudroom entryway farmhouse design that is both rustic and polished. I normally use natural textures, wood colors and matte black hardware to get the desired look. Use exposed wooden benches, white shiplap walls and reclaimed wood accents together.
Use barn-style hooks for coats, antique bronze wall sconces and an old-fashioned wire boot tray. Sliding barn doors in a built-in closet can give your home a farmhouse look and help hide your things. A floor option like white oak or limestone helps brighten up the rustic feel of the space.
To me, this style always feels warm and grounded. For years, I’ve watched Joanna Gaines and I think her ideas for mudroom entryway decor such as hanging family photos and using vintage baskets, are still popular. I recommend clients add reclaimed materials to their design to create a story.
If you’re really into the farmhouse style, I suggest adding a hint of coastal charm such as using pale blue paint or seagrass baskets. It keeps the space feeling open and fresh.
Maximizing Mudroom Entryway Storage With Custom Solutions
Custom storage is the best way to organize your mudroom entryway. Since every household is different, why choose a design that fits everyone else? The first thing I do is check the family’s daily habits to see if they require shoe storage, coat cubbies, sports gear bins or pet stations. When I know what the problems are, I adjust my built-ins to address them.
A design with tall lockers for every family member is very practical. Put drawers under a long bench to store gloves and scarves and use floating shelves above for items you need for certain seasons. Remember to put items like umbrellas and leashes in the less visible nooks of bags. Choose waterproof luxury vinyl planks for your floors to stand up to a lot of use.
For me, the most effective mudroom entryway design grows with the needs of your family. Many HGTV designers advise putting nameplates or chalkboard labels on each person’s area to help them stay responsible. I’ve discovered that sliding pocket doors can make the area completely hidden when that’s desired.
It would be great if more people added vertical pull-out units—similar to mini pantries—to store small items. It’s a great way to use space which is especially helpful in smaller homes.
How to Build a Functional Mudroom Entryway Bench
A mudroom entryway bench is more than just a place to sit—it’s an anchor for the whole space. I usually build the bench using hardwood or MDF, depending on how much you want to spend and I make sure it includes cubbies or drawers. It should be high and deep enough so you can easily take off your shoes and I often put a backrest in for more comfort.
Ensure there are open spaces for your boots and bins for the little things at the bottom. A plush cushion made from durable fabric makes the seat more comfortable. A row of wall hooks or a shiplap panel above the bench adds style and serves a purpose. Add some color with matching decor such as small pictures or seasonal pillows.
Personally, I think every mudroom entryway needs a bench. Better Homes & Gardens highlights that a bench that is part of the kitchen island can provide seating and make your kitchen neater—a big plus. It’s a simple thing to do and you enjoy the benefits every day.
A common missed opportunity I notice is the absence of power. I’d make sure there is a USB outlet on the side of the bench for charging phones or using small appliances.
Budget-Friendly Tips for a Mudroom Entryway DIY Makeover
Making your mudroom entryway look nice doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. Making things yourself can make your home both attractive and practical, at a low cost. I generally recommend starting with the walls: you can use peel-and-stick shiplap, paint them or even add stenciled flooring to see a big improvement. Give your bench a new look by painting it and adding some attractive hooks and open shelves.
You can turn an old table into a bench and use a thrifted cabinet as a closet. Set up a mirror, put down a runner rug and place woven baskets and hanging plants around. You could also stick LED lights in darker areas to make them brighter.
I’m always interested in DIY and this space makes a great project. Using removable wallpaper in your mudroom is a great idea recommended by Apartment Therapy and I’ve seen it make a big difference in small entry areas. In addition, it’s a fun weekend project that makes a big difference.
I think it’s helpful to put together a mood board before you begin. Having a strong idea—even when resources are limited—helps the space turn out looking stylish and planned.
Elevate Your Style With Curated Mudroom Entryway Decor
Picking the right items for your mudroom entryway can improve the whole look of your entry space. I design my home with a purpose in mind—everything I add should be both attractive and useful. A well-placed mirror, photos of family in frames or a wreath on the front door can really change the atmosphere of this area. Having a unified color scheme helps unite the room and influences the rest of your home’s decor.
I suggest going for decor that can also hold things—such as baskets, jars or key holders. If possible, a wall console can quickly add depth and interest to your design, while using driftwood or glass vases with pebbles will give your room a breezy feeling. Put up some art above your bench and attach hooks with cute tags for your coats and bags. Try using river rocks in a shoe tray to give your home a spa feel.
I prefer to think of the mudroom as a way to showcase the home’s unique style. Real Simple designers suggest putting a few seasonal decorations or family keepsakes in this spot. It makes the room feel inviting, but it’s not too much and guests love it.
You can add some dimension to a room by bringing in a thick jute rug or a wall decoration made from textile techniques.
Minimalist and Sleek: A Mudroom Entryway With Modern Appeal
Individuals who like spare designs and calming palettes will find a mudroom entryway with a trendy style very appealing. I often use whites, blacks and warm grays, adding some natural wood to make the room feel softer. Large tiles or polished concrete make the space look even more clean and elegant. It’s important to have storage that is hidden—everything should be stored, but you shouldn’t see it.
This style is marked by bench seating that floats, cabinets you can open with a simple push and a frameless mirror. Matte black sconces or lights built into the ceiling help to highlight the room, but without taking the focus away from the simple lines of the architecture. Simple metal hooks are set into the wall and a single vase or decor piece can make the space look stylish without getting messy.
I advise clients who want a peaceful and simple room to choose this style. Dwell Magazine reports that minimalist mudrooms are becoming more popular in cities because space is limited and people want their homes to be clear and orderly. Because there is no visual clutter, the transition area is both relaxing and still useful.
If I were to make this design bigger, I’d add a vertical shoe rack behind flat-panel doors for extra storage without spoiling the neat look of the area.
Choosing the Best Mudroom Entryway Paint Colors for Every Mood
Your mudroom entryway design will be successful or fail depending on the color you choose. Properly chosen paint colors can shape the atmosphere and make a room seem cleaner, more open or cozier. I normally introduce soft whites, warm taupes and muted blues to establish a warm and flexible background for any room. Adding a small amount of dark color can anchor the room without making it look heavy.
I think creamy white walls look great with brushed gold or black details for a modern farmhouse style. If you’re looking for a coastal style, consider pale seafoam, sandy beige or light gray-blue. Olive or navy accent walls can make your hooks and shelves stand out and they also hide scuff marks in busy areas. Remember: the color of your flooring will play a role in how the paint looks in the room.
I think that painting is a simple way to change the feel of a room. Many designers from HGTV say that blue-green colors give a peaceful atmosphere, making them perfect for busy homes. A client of mine picked a soft lavender gray and the room felt relaxing after every day.
If you want this area to stand out, it’s best to examine different color samples in various lighting before you pick. Mudrooms get unique lighting patterns, and color shifts more than you’d expect.
