inspiring design: tile for magnificent mudrooms

here are 5 design tips to keep in mind when building your perfect mudroom.

know your space – what kind of mudroom do you have?

this should be the first question you ask yourself when designing a mudroom.

in some homes, the mudroom is the initial space you enter after stepping through the front door. in others, the mudroom appears near the garage or patio, towards the back of the house.

considering your mudroom’s location, think about the impression or vibe you want to evoke. if your mudroom is at the front of your house, use it to preview the rest of your home, using colors and textures that reflect the overall mood of the home and show what’s to come.

if your mudroom is a little more tucked away, you can use this opportunity to get creative–and maybe take a step outside of your comfort zone.

plan ahead – what are your organizational needs?

how do you want your mudroom to be used.

like a traditional japanese genkan (a small tiled entryway directly inside the front door used for removing and storing shoes) a mudroom can be small and fulfill a simple need.

if organization is your thing, think about your needs and requirements for storage. but even if organization is your main priority, there are lots of ways to play with design.

open shelving with a patterned backsplash is a great way to add oomph without compromising on storage space.

protect against mud – and don’t forget sand, grit, water, and ice

floors (and walls) are very important here–mudroom surfaces should be water- resistant and easy to clean, and not highly sensitive to scratches and high foot traffic. if you’re dealing with snow and ice, make sure to select materials rated for freeze/thaw use.

tiles made from some terracottas, stone (especially slate), and high-quality cement (make sure it’s sealed) hold up best against water, mud, and sand–the same natural elements used to create them. as a general rule, stick to materials traditionally used for both indoor and outdoor spaces. for the floor, try to find something slip-resistant: tile with natural variation in texture, like our belgian reproduction terracotta hexes or foundry flats brick.

stone also provides a good option, with slate offering the most slip-resistant and water-resistant surface. slate subway planks come in a variety of sizes and also show the stone’s natural variegation, so no surface looks exactly the same.

bring a little outside, inside

although commonly seen as a place to cleanse ourselves of natural elements, the mudroom is also a great space to re-incorporate nature into the home.

terracotta tile, made with nothing but clay, water, and fire, brings an earthy and elemental vibe to your mudroom floor–almost like walking on earth itself, minus the mess.

if you’re looking for something earthy yet modern, try a stone tile with natural variegation in creamy brown and beige tones, like forage terrazzo in shell. remember to check the installation and maintenance guide for each kind of stone, as guidelines differ.

you can also expand your horizons in terms of materials and textures on the walls since, unlike the floors, they won’t be encountering foot traffic. create a sleek, glossy surface with ceramic subway tiles or embrace the more hand-hewn with zellige tile on the walls.

don’t hold back

whether your mudroom is an entryway to the home or a private, a “behind the scenes” family area, there are plenty of ways to add personality and flair.

for a graphic, colorful material that works well in both indoor and outdoor spaces, cement should be your go-to. with cement, the sky’s the limit: it’s up to you how you want to customize your space, whether you’re into geometric patterns, western vibes, or want to try something completely new: like granny squares.