Stay organized and efficient with a well-designed transitional space.
A mudroom is one of the hardest working rooms in a home—especially in Minnesota. It’s also one of the first things you’ll see each time you return home, so making a good impression is a must. Builders and designers have turned their attention to creating mudrooms that are not only functional, but that also bring you a spark of joy each time to step foot in the door.
“Mudrooms are a multipurpose necessity for any home,” says Danielle Matthies of Homes by Tradition, LLC. “For most people, mudrooms are the last room you leave when you’re heading out the door and the first room you enter when you arrive home—so make an impression!”
There are many ways to personalize this space in your home, from the color palette to storage solutions to lighting. Before embarking on the design, there are a few questions to ask yourself. “Consider things like building in easy access for all sizes, short and tall, young and old,” says Elizabeth Cohen of Studio M Interiors. “Is seating important? What kind of storage is needed? Pet-friendly? Built-in cubbies, message board, or mirror?”
Matthies recommends considering the durability of your finishes and placement of your lighting as a good starting point when making design decisions.
Playing with seating can optimize storage when your footprint is tight. “Since mudrooms can often be smaller rooms, we like to utilize every square inch of the space,” says Taylor Kupla of Bria Hammel Interiors. She recommends incorporating a flip-up seat if you’re adding a bench to create extra storage or making use of empty space underneath with your shoes or storage baskets.
When thoughtfully designed, a mudroom is a space that can grow with your lifestyle. “Mudroom design is one of the top design conversations we have through the architecture planning phase of our new homes,” explains Andy Porter of REFINED, LLC. “Many of our clients have expanding families and the trick is to create a space that evolves as the family evolves.”
Porter also suggests mentally living in the new space while considering your family’s habits. He encourages clients “to visualize new routines that can make this a highly functional space.”
Building new provides the opportunity to create a mudroom that helps you gracefully transition from the hectic life outside to the comforts of home. When you maximize your storage and organization within your mudroom, you’ll see the benefi ts all throughout your home with a clutter-free interior.
Choosing the right paint color for your home can be overwhelming. With endless shades and finishes available, it’s easy to make mistakes that lead to regret later. Here, Jean Haukaas, Hirshfield's Design Resource Showroom manager, shares some of the most common paint color mistakes homeowners make — and how to avoid them.
Older homes are desirable for their historic charm and established neighborhoods, but when it comes to amenities that promote health and overall wellbeing, your 1930s Tudor may be lacking. Through strategic remodeling, these older homes can be updated to meet contemporary wellness needs, whether it’s more windows to increase natural light, a reimagined kitchen that encourages cooking balanced meals, or smart features that make day-to-day life
a little easier.
Spring is the ideal time for a fresh start — especially when it comes to your home. Whether it’s through thoughtful decluttering or permanent design changes, transforming your home can be a powerful step toward creating a streamlined sanctuary that supports your overall health and wellbeing.
“Keeping your home clutter-free and organized creates a peaceful and functional space, reducing stress and making daily tasks easier,” says Kari Campbell, founder and principal designer at Kari Campbell Interiors. “Plus, it saves time when you know exactly where to find what you need. It’s all about creating a space that feels good to live in.”
Here, Twin Cities home professionals offer their tips to transform your space — and your mind.
