{Mudroom} Almost There

Between episodes of shoveling back large quantities of food over the Thanksgiving weekend...we did manage to make some progress on the Mudroom. Many of our rooms are in the middle of a makeover, but with school in full swing, and Winter just around the corner, finishing this space is essential for my sanity our family. I refuse to let gloves and coats be my nemesis this year!

Phase One was installing the faux-board-and-batten treatment...to help disguise the SIX doors in our back hallway.

This past weekend we completed the aesthetic portion of the project....paint and replacing the boob ceiling light. Here's the new paint job, using Behr Ashes. This hall leads to the Family Room, which is painted the same color, and we had leftover paint, so it was a pretty easy decision. I painted the walls above the board treatment, and the ceiling.

And what post, that involves hanging something, would be complete without a picture of Mr. Sugarplum in a strange outfit (here and here)? My sweet hubs, just home from soccer, hanging the new light.

I wouldn't say he's electrically astute, but he had no problem hanging the Ikea Knappa pendant, using a recessed lighting converter kit from the hardware store.

Is it the perfect dose of personality for this little space, or what?!

So now that the hall is looking better, it's time to make it functional....first up....hooks.

Large ones on the top row for heavy bags and backpacks, and smaller double hooks below for lighter jackets and scarves (and easily reached by little people). Both are from Lowes.

We added a little row of small hooks on the opposite wall for keys (they come in natural wood, but we painted it the trim color).

For now, we're not adding larger hooks to this side of the hall since they'd likely obstruct the walkway. You know men and their need for a wide berth! Or is that just my man? "I need to be able to walk through here without bumping into things!"

Here's the view when entering from the garage...LOVE!!!

All that's left is a rug, and putting this space to use! And maybe a splash of color, because neutral and I don't dance for long. What's your routine for dumping hats, gloves and coats this time of year?

***Update: See the final Mudroom here!***