Parade of Homes featuring the best of new homes in Manitoba, Canada
Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/1481503
"THE MUDROOM HAS BECOME THIS LUXURIOUS PIECE OF ARTWORK THAT GIVES YOU FUNCTIONALITY AND BEAUTY ALL IN ONE." "Homeowners don't just want the function that a mudroom provides to a family and a busy household anymore — they want the high-level esthetic to match it," says Klassen, owner of Winnipeg-based design company Cozy in Clover. "The mudroom has become this luxurious piece of artwork that gives you functionality and beauty all in one. Whether the style trend is modern farmhouse with a shiplap wall or built-in bench seating in a chic downtown condo, the trend remains that function can also be beautiful and that a mudroom deserves the attention it gets." As the first and last space you see when you're coming and going from your home, the entryway or mudroom should make homeowners feel like they have it together, Klassen says. "It is an essential space (whose) sole purpose is to add functionality to the way that you live. Whether it is household appliances, products, dog leashes, bike helmets, jackets or boots, the mudroom is the room that sets you up for success with functional organization while simultaneously being a source of inspiration and beauty, depending on how it is designed." While newer builds tend to go big on mudrooms and foyers, size doesn't necessarily matter when it comes to this space. Klassen says if the key elements of organized storage (think built-in shelves and wicker baskets), accessibility (a bench so you can sit and tie your shoes) and a well-planned design are integrated, you can transform virtually any room, nook or even closet into a mudroom. "I love finding unique and strategic ways of adding in mini mudrooms to any home, using a few simple tricks and organizing techniques to make the function and beauty come together for every home." For example, Klassen removed the accordion doors and lengthy coat bar from the front hall closet of a 1967 bungalow to transform it into a micro- mudroom with hooks, bins, a bench and a shiplap backdrop. The reno added value and visual appeal to the otherwise under-utilized space. Cont'd on page 60 Parade of Homes FALL 2022 59