top of page
Writer's pictureElisa Roche

Give Mess the Boot: Interior Trends for Stylish Mud Rooms 

Once purely functional spaces for cramming in wet coats and wellies, boot rooms have evolved into stylish, charming, multi-purpose areas. We love boot rooms with personality. Here's how to create a functional - yet fashionable- space... 

A hall boot room merges seamlessly into a utility in our Maida Vale project.

Transform your boot room into a stylish, multi-purpose space with personality. From wet coats to muddy boots, here's how to blend function with fashion.


Smart Storage Solutions 

Clever storage is key in boot room design. Custom cabinetry with built-in compartments for different sizes of shoes, boots, and accessories will help to keep the space tidy. Consider incorporating: 

  • Pull-out drawers: Ideal for storing smaller items like gloves, hats, scarves and pet collars. 

  • Bench seating with storage: Combines comfort with practicality and uses every inch of space. 

  • Overhead cabinets: Utilize vertical space for less frequently used items such as fancy hats for weddings. 

  • Humidifier and/or underfloor heating: To keep damp items nice and dry.



Our classic Georgian boot room in Marylebone with architects MWAI. Photo:  Billy Bolton


Durable and Stylish Flooring 

Given the boot room's exposure to the elements, you'll need flooring that's durable and easy to clean. Popular choices include: 

  • Porcelain tiles: Resilient, easy to clean and available in all styles, from classic to contemporary. 

  • Natural stone: Adds a touch of luxury while being robust enough to handle heavy foot traffic and stains. Bonus? Will look even better with age, nicks and wear. 

  • Wood flooring:  Timeless and hard-wearing if sealed correctly. Adding a kilim or jute rug can help with humidity and scuffing and also adds texture and warmth.


Functional Lighting  for Boot Rooms

Proper lighting is essential for a boot room, ensuring it’s both welcoming and you can see your buckles and laces. Trends include: 

  • Task lighting: Under-cabinet lights or motion-sensor spotlights. 

  • Ambient lighting: Wall sconces or pendants create a warm and inviting atmosphere and give a ‘designed’ look to an otherwise functional space. 

  • Natural light: Maximize any existing windows or add a skylight to bring in the sun. 


Pendants and a sconce from Jim Lawrence add countryside charm

Natural Elements 

Incorporating natural materials can create a seamless transition between the outdoors and your interior space. Consider including... 

  • Wooden accents: Benches, shelving, or wall panels made of reclaimed wood for a rustic look that says you spend your weekends at flea markets. 

  • Stone features: A stone wall or floor can add texture and a touch of nature.  A hand-thrown stone pot or planter from Petersham Nurseries would also do the trick.

  • Plants: Adding greenery not only enhances the aesthetic but also improves air quality. No light? Go for a very good faux plant, We like this fiddle leaf fig tree from Beards&Daisies and this cereus cactus from Atelier Abigail Ahern.




A fiddle in the middle? This faux fig from Beards & Daisies had us fooled. A bold boot room in 'Caravan' from Paint & Paper Library. Lastly, a tiled Nina Campbell "La Moulade Indigo" floor for Fired Earth adds a twist to the boot room.



A cheerful, room with baskets of personality from designer Jess Wilcox-Jones


The Personal Touch

Personalization is key to making your boot room unique. Here are some ideas: 

  • Custom cabinetry finishes: Choose colours and finishes that seamlessly complement the rest of your home’s decor. Perhaps each resident gets their own locker - and they must be in charge of keeping it tidy! 

  • Decorative hooks and hardware: Stylish hangers for coats and bags add both functionality and flair. Go for humour or personal touches if you like, such as hooks made from old family crockery sets or coar hangers made from old birch branches.

  • Family message boards: Chalkboards or cork boards for notes, reminders, and personal touches will keep everybody in touch as they come and go. 


Everybody gets their own personal cubby in this dark, simple bootroom.


Integrated Technology 

Modern boot rooms can benefit from smart technology. Examples include: 

  • Heated flooring: Keeps the space warm and cosy when you're coming in from the cold.

  • Smart storage solutions: Sensors can notify you when storage spaces are full or items are missing. Great for those who are also using the boot room as. a larder space. Time to stock up on dog biscuits! 

  • Climate control: Maintains optimal temperature and humidity to protect items. 



Antlers, brass and driftwood give this room a stately home feel. By Humphrey Munson.

A recycled shopping boot bag from NotOnTheHighStreet


Sustainability 

Eco-friendly design is increasingly important. Consider sustainable materials and practices such as: 

  • Recycled materials: Use reclaimed wood or recycled tiles for a sustainable and unique look. Facebook marketplace is a treasure trove. 

  • Low-VOC paints: Ensure better indoor air quality with environmentally friendly paint options. 

  • Energy-efficient lighting: LEDs reduce energy and have a longer lifespan. 








Maximizing Small Spaces 

Even if you have limited space, you can still achieve the look and feel of a boot room by using your hallway or kitchen back door area. Opt for: 

  • Slimline storage: Narrow cabinets and shelves that maximize vertical space. 

  • Fold-away benches: Seating that can be tucked away when not in use. 

  • Hooks and racks: Wall-mounted hooks and shoe racks to keep the floor clear. 


Blue tiles in room by Dina Bandman




Don't Forget the Dog! Boot rooms are now precious multifunctional spaces. No longer just for storage; they double and triple up as laundry rooms, larders and pet grooming areas. We think any pup would love this mini cobalt blue shower from Dina Bandman.  Frankly, we’re obsessed.  Woof!






Interior Design: Catherine Wilman Interiors

Room Photography: Alexander James




bottom of page