This Designer Created a Bright, Sunny Mudroom in a Midcentury Home

If there’s something we never get tired of seeing, it’s a great makeover. Whether it’s transforming a retro bathroom into a modern oasis or giving a lackluster bedroom a fresh look, pros perform these design miracles all the time.

To give designers a chance to showcase their favorite makeovers—and to bring you plenty of inspiration for your own home—we’re sharing the best before and afters we’ve seen in our series, Makeover of the Week. Take notes for your next renovation.

“The first-floor level mudroom in this midcentury home had been neglected for years,” interior designer Laura Hildebrandt shares. “Which was an issue, since it’s the first thing you see when you walk in the door!”

Before:

“The raw and unfinished mudroom/laundry room was original to this 1967 split level home,” Hildebrandt says. “Think linoleum tile, cinderblock walls, exposed ceilings and dark wood cabinets. There was no real storage for backpacks, shoes, all the things that live in a mudroom.”

After:

“We gave this space a total overhaul, updating the window, sink, flooring, and appliances while adding lots of cabinetry,” Hildebrandt explains. “The lighting was changed out to brighten up the area, which has now become the hub of the home.”

What Changed:

• Color theme: Shades of gray and white combine with pops of orange and blue, giving off a colorful midcentury vibe. 
• Cabinets: Shaker-style white cabinets provide storage and feature white and chrome hardware. 
• Floor: Durable dark gray porcelain tile conceals dirt. 
• Window treatment: A custom blue, green, black, and orange Roman shade provides color against the white cabinets and light gray walls. 
• Sink: A storage cabinet is wedged between appliances and features a sink for handwashing laundry items. 
• Shelving: Open shelving takes advantage of the room’s height, while gray and white baskets store everything from extra laundry detergent to cleaning supplies. 
• Drying rack: The retractable rack is great for hanging damp items that can’t go into the dryer. 
• Rug: The resilient polyester rug provides texture and softness to a room with a lot of hard surfaces.
• Ceiling pendant: The chrome and mesh pendant gives off a modern yet retro feel. 
• Backsplash: The geometric design on the gray and white porcelain tile provides interest behind the sink. 
• Appliances: The washer and dryer were stacked to save on space while a second refrigerator stores extra beverages and snacks. 
• Plants: A trio of easy-to-care-for potted succulents introduces greens to the space. 
• Wall art: An orange and black print coordinates with the colors in the window shade. 
• Wall color: The walls are painted in Benjamin Moore Classic Gray. 

Shop the Look:

The Home Depot Collapsible Laundry Wall Rack $96.00

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“This collapsible hanging drying rack works great in areas where you don’t have a lot of floor space,” Hildebrandt says.

Shades of Light Mesh Industrial Mount Ceiling Light $370.00

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“This modern semi-flush ceiling mount is industrial looking without being too edgy,” Hildebrandt says.

Room & Board Courtyard Basket $89.00

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“These baskets provide functional storage and add texture to any space,” Hildebrandt shares.