Alair Chilliwack is in the news! Partner Chris Klaassen was recently interviewed for an article for the Vancouver Sun. The topic? How to make the most of your mudroom.
In the Lower Mainland, it’s pretty much always mudroom season! With our wet spring, damp winters and muddy springs, a mudroom is the perfect place for family to cast off dirty shoes and rain soaked jackets.
When it comes to building or renovating your own mudroom, Chris suggests keeping these tips in mind:
- If you’re building a new house, locate the mudroom off the garage or at the most frequently used entrance.
- How big should you build your mudroom? Chris says the ideal size is eight feet wide and 12-14 feet long. That gives you the option of having storage on both sides and a bench.
- If you have the space, considering adding a plumbed sink. Or, do double duty and combine your laundry room with your mudroom.
- Consider the flooring. You want something easy to clean and maintain. So you may want to save the hardwood for other parts of the home.
- Don’t forget seating, especially if your mudroom is in a main thoroughfare. A bench makes it so much easier to don and toss those dirty shoes and boots.
- If you don’t have room for a bench, throw in a pouf or a stool.
- Think storage. Built-ins are always great but if you opt for shelves, add baskets and bins to store smaller items like hats, gloves and scarves.
- Have a family pet? Dogs can be among the dirtiest family members, especially after a long winter’s walk. Consider adding a dog washing station in your mudroom.
- Even if you don’t use the item often (ski gear) you may want to store it in the mudroom instead of the garage. A mudroom is heated and humidity controlled. It can make your belongings last longer.
- Don’t forget to think about ventilation. Having a window is always preferable. But if that’s not an option, ensure there’s supply and return air for any musty-smelling clothing and smelly shoes.
- Lastly, an entrance way mudroom can always use a stylish touch. Use the space to add throw pillows and other artful details in keeping with the rest of home’s design.
To read the full article, click here.