Finally finished our mudroom conversion at our Swansea semi and wanted to share since I had trouble finding realistic Toronto-specific photos and costs when we were planning.
The space: Converted the rear ‘mud area’ between the back door and kitchen. Was essentially a hallway — nowhere to drop boots, coat hooks inadequate for 4 people, no storage.
What we built:
- Built-in locker-style unit with 4 cubbies, bench seating, upper cabinet storage
- Porcelain tile floor (replaced cracked old vinyl, same footprint)
- One additional outlet (needed permit — added to existing electrical permit for the kitchen we did simultaneously)
- New lighting (switched from single 60W bulb to 4 pot lights on dimmer)
Dimensions: 9 ft wide x 5 ft deep (45 sq ft)
Cost breakdown:
- Custom millwork (local cabinet shop, Etobicoke): $6,800
- Tile floor (material + install): $1,100
- Electrical: $380 (add-on to kitchen permit)
- Painting: $400
Total: $8,680
I genuinely use it every single day. The coat-and-boot pile at the back door is gone. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
Happy to share more photos if anyone wants — just ask.