At Elements, we understand that family comes in many shapes and sizes. As passionate pet-parents, we realize this means some family members are furry with four legs! Because of this, we know that it is just as important to create comfortable spaces for our fur babies as it is for our two-legged fam. Today, we want to focus on a small, yet vital, space in your home—the mudroom. How can you create a functional AND stylish dog friendly mudroom? Well, as design-build professionals and loving pet-parents, here are our four top tips…
Tips on Designing a Functional & Stylish Dog Friendly Mudroom…
Tip #1: Think durable
If your fur baby is anything like ours, they will find the puddle and run into the house with muddy paws! Because of this, solid-surface flooring is the best choice for a functional dog friendly mudroom. Though we love hardwoods, tile is a better option for the mudroom. Why? Well, you don’t have to worry about water as much. Plus, dirt doesn’t scratch tile as easily as hardwoods.
Sinks, countertops, and furniture should all be durable, as well. You might even consider tiling part of the walls, especially around the dog wash area.
Durable doesn’t mean boring, though. But we’ll talk more about that in a bit…
Tip #2: Think organization
Bigger does not always mean better. A small, well organized mudroom with appropriate storage is far better than a large, disorganized space. Think about what you need to store…
- Dog Food
- Treats & Bones
- Leashes & Poopy Bags
- Extra Food & Water Bowls
- Toys & Puzzles
- Dog Shampoo & Paw Wipes
- Brushes & Towels
- Vitamins & Medications
Which of these items do you access often? At our house, it’s treats! So, we store them in a cute container placed on the countertop. Puzzles and paw wipes, on the other hand, are kept inside cabinets. Leashes can be hung from hooks. And what is typically used as a trash drawer can be utilized to store dry dog food.
The key is to think about what you need and how you use it. Then, communicate that information to your builder so that he can help you create a dog friendly mudroom that is functional for your pet family.
Tip #3: Think clean
Even if, like us, you normally get your dog groomed by a professional, there are occasions when being able to give a quick bath to your fur baby would be nice. If you’ve ever tried to wash your pet in the bathtub (or the kitchen sink), then you know that’s no easy feat! And bathing them outside?! Maddie would be running all over the yard!
So, installing a tub sink (or walk-in bathing area for larger dogs) creates a more dog friendly mudroom. Not only should you carefully consider the sink you choose, but the faucet as well. Installing a single-handle faucet with pull-down sprayer is a good option.
Tip #4: Think style
After thinking through the functionality of durable finishes, organization, and a dog wash station, don’t forget to add some style to your dog friendly mudroom! Choose a fun pattern for the tile floor, a beautiful color for the cabinets, and add cute accessories to showcase your family’s personality.
Functionality does not have to replace style. Dog friendly doesn’t mean cold and boring! It is possible to create a durable, organized, and stylish dog friendly mudroom.
Need some help designing your dog friendly mudroom?! Click here to contact us! We’d love the opportunity to put you in your Element!
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