In Calgary, the mudroom works hard. Snow, slush, gravel, wet mitts and sports gear all land there. A built-in bench and lockers can turn a chaotic entry into something that works. Here's what we think about when we design one.
Layouts that work
- Open lockers: a bench with a cubby per person above, hooks at two heights and a shelf on top. The most popular setup for families.
- Bench and hooks only: good for narrow halls where full lockers would crowd the space.
- Closed cabinets: doors hide the mess, but wet gear needs ventilation. Use vented doors or leave some sections open.
- Corner L-shape: makes use of an awkward corner and seats more people at once.
Details for Calgary winters
- Boot space under the bench: leave room for boot trays and taller winter boots, or add a slatted shelf so water drains away.
- Hard-wearing floor: tile or LVP, never carpet. See best flooring for basements for material notes.
- Drying space for wet gear: hooks with room around them, so mitts and toques actually dry. Adding a heat source is an electrical or HVAC job.
- Tough finishes: a durable paint system on the bench top, or a solid-wood or laminate seat that resists scratches.
- A spot for hockey bags: a deep lower cubby or a garage-side bin keeps bags off the floor.
Small mudrooms
If your "mudroom" is a hallway by the garage door, a shallow bench (or a wall-hung one), a row of hooks and an upper shelf can still make a big difference. Wainscoting or board-and-batten behind the hooks protects the wall. See is wainscoting worth it?.
Getting one built
Mudroom benches are custom carpentry, built to fit your space and your family. Send a photo and rough measurements and we'll suggest a layout. See custom built-ins or request a quote.
Frequently asked questions
How deep should a mudroom bench be?
Benches are commonly 15 to 18 inches deep. Leave enough clearance in front for people to sit and put on boots.
How high should a mudroom bench be?
Around standard chair height, roughly 18 inches, works for most adults. A slightly lower section can help small kids.
What paint holds up best on a mudroom bench?
A durable enamel or cabinet-grade paint. Some people prefer a stained or laminate seat because it hides scratches better.
