Converted our previously non-functional entry closet into a proper mudroom in our 1992 Oakville home. Family of 5. Posting the design decisions and costs.
The Before State
8 sq ft coat closet beside the side entry door. One rod, one shelf. Coats piled on top of boots in front. Zero organization. Dog gear, sports equipment, and school bags had nowhere to go.
What We Did
Removed the closet walls and opened the entry area to approximately 48 sq ft. Engaged a local millwork company for custom built-ins.
The Design
5 individual zones (one per person): each zone has 2 upper hooks, a bench seat section, one open cubby above bench for accessories, and an enclosed cabinet above that.
Shared storage: 3 drawers at bench height for gloves/hats, pull-out boot dryer shelf (simple wooden shelf over a small baseboard heater), 4 additional hooks on the far wall for seasonal coats.
Floor: 24x24 inch porcelain tile (replaced the carpet that was there).
Cost
Millwork design and fabrication (painted MDF, dovetail drawers): $11,200
Installation: $2,100
Tile floor (48 sq ft): $1,800
Electrical (2 added outlets, new light fixture): $580
Painting and touch-up: $380
Total: $16,060
The Functional Difference
Every family member has their own space. The front door area stays clean. Sports equipment (hockey bags, soccer cleats) goes in the two lower cabinets we specified wide enough for bags. The boot dryer shelf eliminated the wet boot smell in the entry.
What I Would Change
I would add a small utility sink. We have a large dog and a mudroom sink for rinsing muddy paws or boots would have been useful. Adding it now would require opening walls and moving plumbing - much cheaper to add during the renovation.