Before & After Transformation: Mudroom

Shoes, scarves, jackets … oh my! The mudroom is a weigh station for the kids' sports gear, seasonal wear and oftentimes the laundry. This multi-purpose space can get cluttered quickly and is often left off of the décor to-do list, says Amy Matthews, contractor, host of DIY Network's Sweat Equity and mom to a 10-month-old. Get inspired to spruce up your mudroom with these simple tips for one amazing transformation.

"When you walk into a messy space, it's stressful," says Matthews. "And the last thing that a mom needs is extra stress." This dreary mudroom is far from an impressive entry. The cinderblock walls, exposed pipes and concrete floors could use a serious (and colorful) uplift. And it the problem isn't just cosmetic—this space is meant to serve as a multifunctional mudroom/laundry room/utility room.

Every mudroom should address the needs of a family, and according to Matthews, most families need four things: a bench, a shoe rack or basket, hanging space and container storage. "If you live in an area with different seasons, this is even more important." says Matthews. "Scarves, gloves, hats and all the other stuff need homes and places to be stored."

When it comes to strage, think about what kind of mom you are. Do you like to tuck things away in cabinets? Or will open shelving help you keep things trim and tidy? Asking yourself these questions, says Matthews, will help you decide what kind of storage to use. "I love exposed storage spaces rather than closed closets because you you can see it," she says. "You're forced to keep it clean and use cool containers."

Even if your entire house is hardwood, a mudroom still needs a floor that is able to weather rainy boots and muddy sneakers without making you run for the Swiffer. This renovation utilized marmoleum floors, which come in easy peel-and-stick options for quick installation or click-and-lock panels. "There are so many cool designs—you can have it look like cork or you can do colorful squares like in this mudroom," says Matthews. "It goes down really easy and it has a bit of give." Plus, it's budget friendly. Matthew also recommends linoleum or stone flooring.

Like many basements, this space was overwhelmed by ducts, pipes and circuit breakers. To keep your own renovation on a budget, pick two or three elements to invest in, like sliding door closets to hide a water heater. For the rest, "there are a lot of ways to simply finish off components of the space that don't involve hiding them," says Matthews. "You can spray-paint the entire ceiling silver to give it a unformed finish like in a loft. Or, you can do the drop ceiling, like they did here, to hide duct work."

To energize this remodel, the owners opted for a vibrant yellow-and-green color palette. Because it's a small space, the options are endless for bold themes that differ from the rest of the home. "My mudroom and laundry room are also in the basement, so I wanted a lighter color to make the space feel brighter and more airy," says Matthews. On the other hand, if the space lacks windows or is visible from other rooms, try a more neutral color palette.

Off of the mudroom, this home features a small bathroom, which is a huge bonus—especially when getting the kids off to school. "It looked pretty unsightly before," says Matthews. The small powder room got a makeover of its own with new fixtures, tile and accessories. "They made it a space that you'll want to use." Continuing the yellow-green color palette from the floor onto the bathroom walls maintains the energy of the space.

Just like the rest of your home, little touches and decorative details make all the difference. With potted plants, molding trim, hanging built-ins and a functional second bench, this mudroom is now a highlight of the home and a potential selling point. "This is now a room that you're not embarrassed for guests to walk into, especially if you're having a party," says Matthews.

Inspired to revamp your mudroom or entryway now? Matthews's biggest advice is to spend wisely. "Yes, it's a room that people use all the time, but it's not necessarily going to bring value to the home like granite in the kitchen." Instead of expensive countertops, go for remnant pieces. And while custom cabinetry is tempting, try stock items from Ikea or Home Depot to stay under budget. "Go for things that are more about the look than the price."