Earlier this summer, I styled a shoot for Cape Cod Home Magazine alongside my favorite New England photographer, Stacey Hedman.  A dream project of sorts, the home’s gorgeous bones and existing furniture made styling easy as pie. Of all of the beautiful features, my favorite space was the mudroom.

Photo Credit: Cape Cod Home Magazine

Wicker baskets for dog leashes, cubby holes, wellies, and hooks for raincoats ensure that the mud and snow will stay where it belongs—at the door. This photo (above) exemplifies ample storage in a mudroom/entry way combination. How perfect!

To create your own mudroom space, choose a location near a high-traffic entryway. If your home lacks an “official” mudroom (welcome to the club!), a large vestibule or partial hallway will serve the purpose beautifully. It’s also important to choose a space with hardwood or tile floors, avoiding carpet when possible. Once you designate your space, check these items off your mudroom essentials shopping list:

1. Boot tray
2. Storage bins
3. Coat hooks
4. Bench
5. Washable runner/rug

Photo Credit: Francois Halard for Vogue

Optional items include:

1. Ski rack or tennis racquet or <insert your thang here> hooks
2. Chalkboard paint or bulletin board wall
3. Umbrella pail

Photo Credit: BHG

If you reside in a dwelling with limited space, you can easily create a mudroom area just inside your front door. I’m particularly smitten with this creatively converted closet below.

Photo Credit: Apartment Therapy

Finder's Keepers

The storage baskets and rustic look of this bench are perfect for a mudroom or entryway!

A striking tray is essential for storing keys and doubles as a charging station.

Mudroom boots can be stored in a pretty freestanding base cabinet like this one.

A good coat stand is critical during the cooler months!

An outdoor rug is easy to clean and adds depth to the space!