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At The Picket Fence with Vanessa Hunt

Where Ideas for your Home Meet Inspiration for your Heart

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    • Featured

January 25, 2012

Mudroom Makeover

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First things first…can we just all agree that as long as it ends up as the dumping ground for all things “muddy” it can be declared a “Mudroom“?

Although, considering I live in the Pacific NW, any room in my house could technically be considered the Mudroom! Nonetheless, I am so grateful for this space which holds most of the mud. It is also our laundry room and is the first actual laundry room I ever had. My previous ones included a space in the garage in our first home and a little closet with bi-fold doors in the family room of our last house.
Our current Mud/Laundry room is just down the hallway off of our entry and leads to the garage.
It is also the ONLY room which we didn’t paint when we moved in.

Why? Don’t ask me! The only reason I can come up with is that I wasn’t totally sure what color I would want and then it ended up being so challenging to tackle considering how often we are in and out of this room every day. But, with the New Year came New Resolve to get ‘er done!
So, for your viewing pleasure and without further ado, here are a couple of Before photos:

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Thankfully, this room gave me lots to work with. Great storage and I have always loved the color of the cabinets in this soft, muddy green. Slate floors are perfect for a room that sees so much traffic.
And having a sink in here is like the icing on the cake.
But, it was pretty blah.

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 Not any more!!!

Welcome to my newly improved Mudroom!

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I am very proud to say that I did 99.9% of this project myself! Painting (soft, pale yellow), installing chair rail, installing bead board and more painting.


And, I just love it!


As you can see in the below pics, I already had the sweet little bench with baskets to store the Rascals shoes.
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But the fresh paint and bead board make such a huge difference!
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The Bead Board Bulletin Board (say that 5 times fast!) was completed last September but the fresh paint and extra touches just make it feel new all over again!

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It always amazes me how a simple can of Spray Paint can make such a huge difference!
In order to keep costs down I gave the existing faucet several coats in an Oiled Bronze.

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Now, for the “laundry” side of the room. Yes, I know, our washer and dryer are ancient.
But they just won’t break! A girl can hope right? Winking smile

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Here is another angle which is coming in from the garage.

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Simple Oiled Bronze hooks take the place of one crooked, rickety coat rack.

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The bench cushions were merely flipped over for a fresh new look!

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The biggest challenge in this space (and where I needed my sweet hubby’s help the most…love ya honey!) was this rounded corner wall you see below. It became the proverbial trying to fit a square peg in a round hole.
The problem was solved when I found little trim molding which was curved on the inside and fit  perfectly along the edges.

Oh, and A LOT of caulk was used too!

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I just couldn’t bring myself to buy all new cabinet hardware…

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…so they received a few coats of Oiled Bronze spray paint too!

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I also knew I wanted a chalkboard in here (and yes, I am the last person on the planet to make a chalkboard!) but I was really trying to keep this a low-budget project.

So, I dug around under our bed and along with a bunch of dust bunnies I found this old framed painting.

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Popped out the glass and the “painting” and gave the frame a nice new chippy finish. A scrap of wood from the garage cut to size and a few coats of Chalkboard paint finished it off!
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Ok! Ok!! Don’t all yell at me at once! I do realize that my scrap piece of wood had too much grain showing in it which then came through on the chalkboard but give a girl some credit for trying, huh?!!

This soft roman-shade-ish window treatment was made using leftover fabric from my daughter’s room.

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Sweet little vintage prints found in a second-hand store bring in some character.

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And I framed this painting which used to hang on the wall of my Great-Grandmother’s home.
Now I see it every day when I leave the house and I love the connection it gives me to her. She made the best biscuits EVER! And Heather and I used to play outside in her front yard and make mud pies which we would then try to sell to our unsuspecting but totally indulging family members!
There is a picture of us doing that somewhere…hmmm..

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The colors of this rug are just perfect in here and hide everything!
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My favorite little bucket had some life added to it by way of a Begonia and I couldn’t resist bringing in a touch of Valentine’s Day in here with this little caddy filled with goodies.

Well, there you have it folks, my completed Mudroom Makeover.Time to bring back the “stuff” of life so that this room can get to work!
Until next time, thanks so much for joining me at the Fence!
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This post is partying here:
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia: Tuesdays Treasures
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesday
DIY By Design: Winter Blues Wednesday
No Minimalist Here: Open House Party
Chatty Chics: Wild Wednesday
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday
Stuff and Nonsense: Friday’s Unfolded
A Simply Klassic Home: Simply Klassic Sundays
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Night Special
Too Much Time on my Hands: Get Schooled Saturday
DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade

88 Comments Filed Under: Decorating, Good Ideas

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Katie @ Wildwood Creek says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:40 PM

    Great makeover!

    Reply
  2. Judy says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:42 PM

    I just LOVE your new mudroom. I love the soft buttery yellow you chose and the bead board makes a huge difference. The mudroom is the most used room in the house next to the kitchen. You’re actually going to start to like to do laundry I bet. Gorgeous space. Love all the details and I love how you did it all yourself (I rounded up from 99%).

    Reply
  3. Jodie says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:51 PM

    So bright and cheery, makes me actually want to do laundry! Vanessa, want to come over and help me with my laundry room? Fantastic Makeover!

    Warm Wishes,
    Jodie

    Reply
  4. Full Circle Creations says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:01 PM

    It turned out lovely!
    Holly

    Reply
  5. The Green Pea says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:05 PM

    I like the look of the grain in the wood in your chalkboard. sandi

    Reply
  6. Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:11 PM

    You had some great bones to work with in this room, Vanessa! I love your valance and how the cushions work so well with it. The color is great, too! I am going to have to repaint our laundry/mudroom/garage entrance area because I took down a wire shelf that left a hundred holes. I’m looking to go light since we have no window. Great job and I’ll bet you don’t mind doing laundry! : )

    Reply
  7. Debra @ Common Ground says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:14 PM

    This is fabulous, so light and bright!! Great job on the beadboard and molding, this is just a great space, plus I’d kill for a sink in my laundry room!!!

    Reply
  8. Lisa @ Before Meets After says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:25 PM

    WOW! It looks great! I am so envious of your laundry/mud room. My laundry room barely fits my w/d. We almost had to take off the baseboards. I am so impressed you did all the beadboard by yourself too!

    Reply
  9. Jeri says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:27 PM

    Gorgeous!! A room like this would make me love to do laundry!!

    Reply
  10. stefanie says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:33 PM

    i love it!!!!!

    Reply
  11. Maria Elena says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:36 PM

    Vanessa, you did such a wonderful job! It looks beautiful!
    I love everything and the window treatment looks gorgeous!

    Reply
  12. Vicki says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:39 PM

    Your before pictures are 100 times better than my current laundry room. It’s the last room in my home I haven’t redone, but it needs a total gut! I love all that storage you have in there! With no basement in our home, I am all about the storage. I love the color combo you choose… you did a beautiful job! So, if you and Heather are ever up in Northern Indiana, bring your tools… YOU’RE HIRED!

    Reply
  13. Susan (My Place to Yours) says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:43 PM

    Fantastic job, Vanessa! (Wow, that rounded corner would really give me fits, too!) This is such a cheerful room, and I love the print that hung in your grandmother’s house. Such a sweet memory. I hope my grandones feel like that about me someday… By the way, you’re NOT the last one to paint a chalkboard. 🙂

    Reply
  14. Lisa Scibilia says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:56 PM

    Your mudroom looks great! Such a bright and cheery space! Great job on the chair rail and beadboard too!

    Reply
  15. Fox Hollow Cottage says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:58 PM

    What a great makevoer. Love the fresh wite beadboard and all the new touches. As long as the chalk writes on it, it’s all good! And you do get an A for effort =) Enjoy doing laundry in your fab new space! That is one awesome mudroom!!

    Reply
  16. Michelle Paige says

    January 24, 2012 at 4:00 PM

    I love all the little features you did! What a great mudroom! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  17. Coastal Cottage Dreams says

    January 24, 2012 at 4:01 PM

    Your mudroom makeover looks wonderful! Looks very bright! Don’t you just love the beadboard look, I love it! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  18. Debbie says

    January 24, 2012 at 4:11 PM

    FANTASTIC! I can hardly stand to come here sometimes because you and Heather can do such great things, and I’m Debbie ThreeThumbs.

    I also wanted to tell you that I just read your Sunday post. I hardly ever go anywhere near the computer on Sundays so I nearly missed it.
    It was wonderful, and I could relate very much even though my pride was packaged a bit differently and for different reasons. Clearly inspired.

    Reply
  19. Renewed Upon a Dream says

    January 24, 2012 at 4:15 PM

    Ohh it looks so nice! Your washer & drier don’t look very old. I’m sure you still have plenty of years left in them! At least they are nice & clean 🙂 Your room looks wonderful! Love the bead board!

    Reply
  20. Kristin @ My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia says

    January 24, 2012 at 4:57 PM

    Oh my goodness girl this is fabulous. First of all that space is increadible, I’m a little envious. You turned it into a functional beautiful space. I love the sign, obey your parents 🙂 Thank you so much for linking up, hope you have a great week 🙂
    XO
    Kristin
    Oh ps…..keep those ancient wash/dryer till you can because the front loaders still have a lot of upgrades to do 🙂 (mold stink issues)

    Reply
  21. Robin says

    January 24, 2012 at 5:03 PM

    You have created a cozy and inviting space. I just love the addition of the beadboard – – adds instant charm.

    Reply
  22. NanaDiana says

    January 24, 2012 at 5:11 PM

    Vanessa, GREAT job on the makeover. I need to do my laundry room and keep putting it off, too. Guess I should get on it. You did a good job of refreshing all your hardware with the bronze paint…and the faucet, too.
    Hope you have a wonderful Tuesday- xo Diana

    Reply
  23. Traci says

    January 24, 2012 at 5:36 PM

    Vanessa, your mud room looks amazing!!! What a fabulous job you did. My laundry room is tiny & not a mud room but I so need to do something to it. You’re inspiring me!

    Reply
  24. Creative Raisins says

    January 24, 2012 at 5:47 PM

    Wow what a great transformation, I love the space and the storage you have in there.

    Reply
  25. Kristin says

    January 24, 2012 at 5:56 PM

    I’m seriously impresses, Vanessa! I’m working on my laundry room now and hope to be able to show it off next week. I love everything you’ve done, and you’ve given me some great inspiration!!

    Reply
  26. michelle says

    January 24, 2012 at 6:10 PM

    This is some serious gorgeousness!! Great job girl, I love it all, the color and the cushions on the bench are so cute.
    I so wish I had mudroom with a sink, that would be heaven!
    Enjoy!
    xoxoxo

    Reply
  27. Amy @ 11Magnolialane says

    January 24, 2012 at 6:10 PM

    Gorgeous Makeover! Inspiring. I am about to add beadboard to my laundry too. I love it!
    Amy

    Reply
  28. Shirley@Housepitality Designs says

    January 24, 2012 at 6:32 PM

    What a bright and cheery transformation. Love all the new touches you added. I always felt that a room that you spend the most time in should be beautiful…makes doing laundry, etc. more pleasant…well, sometimes!!

    Reply
  29. Eclectically Vintage says

    January 24, 2012 at 6:42 PM

    It looks great – what a difference something as simple as new knobs can make (and great spray painting of the faucet)!! The beadboard and chalkboard are great (if only the kids would obey)!! Just posted my mudroom today – would love you to take a look.
    https://www.eclecticallyvintage.com/4/post/2012/01/my-mudroom-some-soggy-socks.html
    Kelly

    Reply
  30. Kim says

    January 24, 2012 at 6:43 PM

    It’s too beautiful to be called a Mudroom! Several years ago we moved the washer/dryer to the basement (gasp!) and turned the what was the laundry room into a mudroom and it’s one of the best decisions we ever made. Kids need a place to throw their stuff. Yours is lovely!
    xoxo,
    Kim

    Reply
  31. Calypso In The Country says

    January 24, 2012 at 6:49 PM

    What a gorgeous room! So much space and I love those cabinets. You really have a lot of storage in there. I had to laugh when you said your washer and dryer just won’t break! We replaced our washer a couple years ago with a front loader but the dryer was still working so my husband wouldn’t agree to replace that…which is a pain because it doesn’t hold as much as the washer does. Plus the washer is 2 inches taller than the dryer so it looks rediculous! I keep hoping our dryer breaks too! Anyway, thanks for sharing your beautiful mudroom!
    -Shelley

    Reply
  32. Chatty Chics says

    January 24, 2012 at 7:25 PM

    Ohhhhhhh! So pretty! Vanessa, you did such a good job! You have such a beautiful home! Promise me you’ll link this up at my place Wednesday so I can feature you girls again!
    Also, are you still interested in guest posting for me? 🙂
    Melody
    ChattyChics.com

    Reply
  33. Ginger Zuck says

    January 24, 2012 at 8:02 PM

    Great job. I am very impressed. Love the yellow! Turned out georgous! My washer and dryer are probably more anient than yours! Hey, but they work!! LOL

    Reply
  34. Thoughts for the day says

    January 24, 2012 at 8:33 PM

    Wow I am a bit jealous if I can be, my ‘room’ is under the stairs where the washer and dryer reside and the shoes are on a shoe ‘cubbie’ in the hallway.
    LOVE it…our next house will have an actual utility mud room. Thanks for sharing this.

    Reply
  35. miss flibbertigibbet says

    January 24, 2012 at 8:56 PM

    Looks super fantastic!!
    Lorraine

    Reply
  36. vsutton says

    January 24, 2012 at 9:26 PM

    Its lovely and it’s really a big room. Little green with envy!

    Reply
  37. Cre8ive Motives says

    January 24, 2012 at 10:09 PM

    You did a fabulous job. I love everything you did. I’m a bit envious, I don’t have a mud room 🙁

    ~Mandy

    Reply
  38. Elizabeth (Blue Clear Sky) says

    January 24, 2012 at 10:15 PM

    It was a fantastic and functional space before (I’m more than a bit envious) and looks so fresh and finished now with all your lovely accessories. I love that you used the orb to update the faucet and knobs too.

    Reply
  39. adventuresindinner says

    January 24, 2012 at 2:46 PM

    Just a wonderful spot. Welcoming, practical and bright! Perfect.

    Reply
  40. Kelly says

    January 24, 2012 at 10:50 PM

    I’m very impressed with this transformation! It’s so pretty. It looks like it’s ready for Spring with your new yellow color. I love that fabric you used for your window treatment too. I wish I had a nice mudroom like that. I’m sure it makes you feel better to walk through a decorated room instead of strictly utilitarian one now.

    Reply
  41. Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and... says

    January 24, 2012 at 10:59 PM

    Love the transformation Vanessa! It looks so cheerful and pretty…so it won’t matter as much about all that mud, right? =)

    Reply
  42. Ange says

    January 24, 2012 at 11:00 PM

    Love the “new” mudroom! The colors are great, the yellow really brightens it up in there. Also love the picture from your grandma, personal and historical, my favorite!

    Reply
  43. Angela - Postcards from the Ridge says

    January 24, 2012 at 11:02 PM

    Now I have mudroom envy. That looks great. Love the bead board and the hooks. How clever of you to spray paint the faucet and cabinet hardware! Great project.

    Reply
  44. A Pretty Life in the Suburbs says

    January 24, 2012 at 3:28 PM

    Very fresh and bright! I love everything! And I actually think the wood effect on your chalkboard is fantastic!
    Jo-Anna

    Reply
  45. chateau chic says

    January 24, 2012 at 11:33 PM

    So bright and cheerful. Great job! Love the rug.
    Mary Alice

    Reply
  46. Dixie Delights says

    January 25, 2012 at 12:42 AM

    Love love the pale yellow with the cabinets. It all looks so cheerful!

    Reply
  47. debbie refresh restyle says

    January 25, 2012 at 12:47 AM

    Vanessa, It looks wonderful! I like the wood grain on your chalk board! Oh, and those knobs and faucet. It’s so pretty and if you figure out a way to kill your washer and dryer let me know!
    Debbie

    Reply
  48. Pamela says

    January 25, 2012 at 1:12 AM

    Vanessa what a wonderful update!! I DREAM of having a laundry/mud room like that!! All that space a girl could get giddy standing in there!

    Reply
  49. Debbiedoo's blogging and blabbing says

    January 25, 2012 at 1:15 AM

    Girl you have an unbelievable mudroom. I love it. What a great space. I am doing my little box over soon.

    Reply
  50. Sweet Melanie says

    January 25, 2012 at 1:16 AM

    Just beautiful…so light and fresh! This summer I am planning to do an entry in our garage as you enetr the downstairs…definitley going to be white!!! Thanks for sharing. :0)

    Reply
  51. Richella says

    January 25, 2012 at 1:16 AM

    YEA, Vanessa!! It looks awesome! I like everything about it–especially that you did most of it yourself and spent so little $$ on it. You are blessed to have such a large space. If I were to build a dream house, a big mudroom would be pretty much at the top of my list.

    About your washer and dryer–my advice (which you didn’t ask for, but I’ll give it anyway!) is to hold onto those as long as you can. If they break, have them repaired. I got a fancy new set a couple of years ago, and I SO wish I’d kept my old machines. Yes, the new ones are “smart,” but there are so many little things I’d always taken for granted that the fancy new machines just won’t do! And I swear the clothes do NOT get as clean. These new machines use less water, and that’s a good thing, but they just don’t get the clothes very clean, and that’s NOT a good thing. I’d take my old machines back in a heartbeat.

    Reply
  52. ℳartina @ Northern Nesting says

    January 25, 2012 at 1:20 AM

    Girl you are good!! This is an amazing makeover! Love the new color, love the beadboard and LOVE that pretty valance on your window. Let’s just say I love it all!!

    Reply
  53. Dawn says

    January 25, 2012 at 1:43 AM

    So charming! This might even make doing laundry fun…

    Reply
  54. Jenny@daysofchalkandchocolate says

    January 25, 2012 at 2:15 AM

    SO gorgeous! I love each detail…the fabric, the chalkboard, the cabinet color, everything!

    Reply
  55. Becca says

    January 25, 2012 at 2:30 AM

    I have been waiting … and waiting … and WAITING for the reveal of your mudroom !! And, WOW, Vanessa … I LOVE IT. You truly did a fantastic job … your vision for this space was wonderful, and the fact that you did most of it yourself is so truly inspiring. You KNOW I love the beadboard … the hooks … the chalkboard … the work station AND the “new” knobs/faucet from a simple can of spray paint! You didn’t disappoint with this one bit … LOVE.IT !!!! xoxo

    Reply
  56. Kim @ Savvy Southern Style says

    January 25, 2012 at 2:35 AM

    Great transformation and look at all those cabinets. Shazam! Love the new look.Thanks for joining Wow.

    Reply
  57. Jackie says

    January 25, 2012 at 3:13 AM

    Love, love, love it! You have great ideas and great taste. 🙂

    Reply
  58. Bonnie ~ a wee Meenit says

    January 25, 2012 at 5:49 AM

    I am so jealous of your mudroom! It is beautiful, I would even come over to do your laundry there!

    Reply
  59. Lori says

    January 25, 2012 at 11:43 AM

    Just wonderfu. I love how you changed the faucet and knobs with the OB paint. I love that stuff and what a cost saver. Love your slate floors too.

    Reply
  60. Kim says

    January 25, 2012 at 1:38 PM

    The fixtures in my home are all oil rubbed bronze, and I love that you used oil bronze spray paint to transform yours. They look great!
    Hugs, Kim

    Reply
  61. Linda@Coastal Charm says

    January 25, 2012 at 2:05 PM

    Job well done…looks outstanding! Love the curtain, beadboard and all the hardware painted…so Nifty Thrifty.

    Blessings,
    Linda

    Reply
  62. Leslie says

    January 25, 2012 at 2:24 PM

    I love every little bit of it!! Can I come do your laundry?

    Reply
  63. Stacy Curran says

    January 25, 2012 at 2:46 PM

    Gorgeous! I love the yellow so much. Makes doing laundry cheery! Now THAT’S good design!
    Stacy

    Reply
  64. Sailing with bare feet says

    January 25, 2012 at 8:23 PM

    It’s so clean!! I love it! !

    https://sailingwithbarefeet.blogspot.com/

    Reply
  65. Bunny Jean says

    January 25, 2012 at 11:16 PM

    Oh how pretty! You are SO lucky to have that space.

    The yellow is such a cheery color to use in the PNW, I know ’cause I lived there for most of my life. White bead board and yellow walls was certainly the way to go. I bet you are glad that you took your time to decide.

    xoxo Bunny Jean
    Wednesday’s Bunny Hop Party!

    Reply
  66. Val says

    January 26, 2012 at 12:45 AM

    I could live in that mudroom, alone.

    Reply
  67. Janet says

    January 26, 2012 at 2:17 AM

    Ok, your mudroom is nicer done than my kitchen!!LOL At least it’s done. And, BTW, we’ve been here for 35 years. Wall colors are similar, but yours is complete, mine is not. I do have a newer front loader washer & dryer. Original cabinets from its 1962 build, but hubs replaced the particle board doors with real wood and refinished the cabinets. All in our younger, healthier days. We paid to have the “mudroom/laundry room” sheetrocked, painted, plumbed, ceiling hung and bartered to get the linoleum laid. Enjoy it!!!
    Janet

    Reply
  68. Gabby says

    January 26, 2012 at 1:20 PM

    Color me jealous! It’s a mudroom sanctuary!!! And don’t worry about being the last person to make a chalkboard. I have only used the spray-paint stuff for some little crafts, which were for my daughter’s birthday party.

    Gabby

    Reply
  69. Passionate for White says

    January 26, 2012 at 5:15 PM

    Great transformation and good for you doing it mostly by yourself!

    Reply
  70. Cristina @ RemodelandolaCasa.com says

    January 26, 2012 at 5:25 PM

    I really like the new color and extra details! It’s beautiful!

    Reply
  71. Sue says

    January 26, 2012 at 7:55 PM

    Vanessa, Changing wall color made such a nicer, bright difference to the room! Did u sand and/or prime your faucet and knob before painting? someone I read where someone else did this and she’s only had to re-touch one door knob in a couple of years. It makes a world of difference to update with ORB! 🙂 Sue

    Reply
  72. Courtney ~ French Country Cottage says

    January 27, 2012 at 1:24 AM

    Love love your mudroom Vanessa!The new color on the walls is gorgeous and so bright and cheery now! Love the cabinet color too! 🙂 Thanks for linking up!!

    Reply
  73. A Cottage Muse says

    January 27, 2012 at 11:42 AM

    What a great space, so fresh and cheery looking!

    Reply
  74. Lakeshore Cottage Living says

    January 27, 2012 at 3:56 PM

    This is fabulous!! I love all the changes you have made…the curtain is so pretty and I love the new color of the knobs…and the prints. I am NOW the last person to attempt a chalkboard LOL. I didn’t know there was anyone else out there…lol. so funny. It all looks beautiful!

    Reply
  75. Jennifer says

    January 27, 2012 at 9:39 PM

    Beautiful!! I wish I had a mudroom. Our washer and dryer are in our kitchen pantry. You did an amazing job with this space. I love the green cabinets, too!

    Reply
  76. Heaven's Walk says

    January 29, 2012 at 11:59 PM

    GREAT job, Vanessa! I wish I had a mudroom, too! You took a ho-hum room and turned in to a really welcoming place to be!!! 🙂

    xoxo laurie

    Reply
  77. Sherry @ No Minimalist Here says

    January 30, 2012 at 6:01 AM

    What a pretty mudroom, Vanessa! You did such a wonderful job transforming this space. Thanks for linking to my party. Hugs, Sherry

    Reply
  78. Stacie@hometownperch says

    January 30, 2012 at 2:00 PM

    That turned out great! The oil-rubbed bronze makes a huge difference on the cabinet knobs. I’m going to remember that trick!

    Reply
  79. Steph says

    January 30, 2012 at 9:17 PM

    What a beautiful room! Don’t worry about the washer and dryer. I have the same ones and even though I sometimes wish for fancy front load machines, you have to love an appliance that just keeps going and going.

    Where in the world did you find the inside curved molding??

    Reply
  80. Hutchinson Middle School says

    January 31, 2012 at 1:29 AM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

    Reply
  81. Linda @ It All Started with Paint says

    January 31, 2012 at 9:42 PM

    Love it … I’m all over that bead board … and how impressive that you did it 99% yourself!

    Would you like to share at our multi-blog “Imagine the Impossibilities” link party? Here’s the link:

    https://www.itallstartedwithpaint.com/

    Thanks and hope to see you at the party (it’s a first for me!)

    Linda
    itallstartedwithpaint@gmail.com

    Reply
  82. Our Pinteresting Family says

    February 3, 2012 at 5:06 PM

    So amazing! I wish I had a mudroom that size …or a mudroom. 🙂 I love all of it.

    Reply
  83. Caroline says

    February 5, 2012 at 4:29 PM

    I absolutely love the cabinet color (muddy green). Everything is so clean and fresh looking in your mudroom! Nicely done!

    Reply
  84. The DIY Show Off says

    February 5, 2012 at 5:41 PM

    Wow, Vanessa! What a beautiful transformation and awesome space! You did a fantastic job with all of the DIY details! Love it! 🙂

    Reply
  85. mudroom storage ideas says

    July 14, 2012 at 1:54 AM

    Very fresh and bright! I love everything! And I actually think the wood effect on your chalkboard is fantastic!

    Reply
  86. gina munsie says

    December 20, 2013 at 9:54 AM

    Hello.. I love your mudroom makeover, but I have to admit I would love to have the before room too. My laundry room is a nightmare, in the basement, some walls drywalled,some walls down to the studs, the open joists are the “ceiling’ where the ductwork isn’t, concrete floor, it houses the furnace, hotwater heater, freezer..argh, awful. I planned on redoing it this winter and then found out we needed a new roof!!! So in the spring I hope! Anyway, love your blog. Take care

    Reply

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  1. Under Stair Closet Turned Butler’s Pantry says:
    April 25, 2013 at 4:27 PM

    […] The walls were painted using the leftover paint from the Mudroom Makeover. […]

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  2. Pfister Faucet Review and Giveaway - At The Picket Fence says:
    October 9, 2013 at 9:23 AM

    […] a new faucet for my home I knew immediately where it would go! A couple of years ago I gave our Laundry Room a face-lift. While we had managed to change every single faucet in the rest of the house, at the […]

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Front door wreath….✔️ The very last Christmas dec Front door wreath….✔️

The very last Christmas decorating to be completed and one of the most important since there’s nothing I love more than welcoming people into our home this season.

I bought the wreath for $15 from a wonderful local vendor, reused my favorite bells and added a velvet bow in the color I’m carrying throughout the house this year.

Do you buy a fresh wreath each year or do you use a faux wreath on your front door? 

#frontdoorwreath #christmaswreath #christmasporch
The first day of December and the first Sunday of The first day of December and the first Sunday of advent. As we enter into a month that can be filled with stress, anxiety, worry and even sadness, let us turn our hearts towards the ONE who came as the ultimate, undeserved gift. Because it’s all about Him. 

“Who can add to Christmas? The perfect motive is that God so loved the world. The perfect gift is that He gave His only Son. The only requirement is to believe in Him. The reward of faith is that you shall have everlasting life.” (Corrie Ten Boom)
“I would maintain that thanks are the highest form “I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” ~ G.K. Chesterton

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours dear friends! 🍂
Its that time of year again. I share this recipe e Its that time of year again. I share this recipe every November because it’s JUST.THAT.GOOD! 

And I have a confession ...I’d rather have cranberry sauce smothering the turkey on my plate than gravy any day!! And this, this right here? Well it’s the best (and easiest!) cranberry sauce ever!! I eat on crackers and sandwiches and sometimes just by the spoonful. It’s so yummy! And I’m just so very thankful for all of you that I’m going to leave the recipe right here instead of making you go to the blog to get it. I promise you won’t regret having this on your Thanksgiving menu but be warned...you may find yourself up in the middle of the night sneaking some helpings of this deliciousness. Or maybe that’s just me!

Ingredients:
2 pounds fresh or frozen cranberries
2 oranges
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup white wine.

Instructions:
Wash and pick over berries, removing any that are soft. Peel and dice oranges removing any seeds. Combine all ingredients in a large pot. Bring to a full boil. Reduce heat and continue cooking until cranberries pop open and mixture is thickening.
For best flavor, prepare and let stand for several days before using.

Gobble, gobble!! 🦃
It’s that time of year again!! Chex Mix will be ma It’s that time of year again!! Chex Mix will be made on repeat for the next month and I’ve figured out the secret to getting the BEST flavor.

Want to know what it is? It’s all about being EXTRA! 

Take the base recipe up a notch by using a full stick of butter, extra tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce and an extra 1/2 tablespoon of Lawry’s seasoning salt.

I guarantee you’ll never go back!

You’re welcome. 😉🎄

#chexmix #chexmixupgrade
Happy Friday!! I limped my way to the end of the w Happy Friday!! I limped my way to the end of the week and I’m feeling especially grateful for the twinkling lights around my home which give me so much joy.

The great debate on social media over whether or not Christmas decorations should appear before Thanksgiving is one I just let roll on past me. Because I am so unbelievably thankful for this life, my family, my friends, this country, this home and most of all my Savior. 

Having my home all ready to welcome the next sacred season doesn’t take away one iota from my ability to express gratitude on the official day set aside each year where we do that collectively.

And when the last slice of turkey has been eaten and all of the leftovers put away, I’ll be over here ready to be fully present in the month of December and soak up every bit of it! 🦃🎄
IKEA vs Heirlooms: Why we need family treasures “ IKEA vs Heirlooms: Why we need family treasures

“My children have grown up seeing antique books on a coffee table, vintage toys in their bedrooms and even pieces of furniture that were all passed down from one generation to the next. But as my nest gets closer and closer to being empty, I’m keenly aware of the fact that many of these cherished items might not be as welcome in the homes of future generations.”

*Read the rest over at @cleartruthmedia*
All of my CTM articles are saved in my highlights
Not too long ago, someone told me that they liked Not too long ago, someone told me that they liked it better when I just talked about decorating and didn’t mention anything else. This person preferred me to keep any opinions or convictions to myself and just focus only on content about home decor, crafts and recipes. Aside from the fact that I’m always astonished that people feel so free to say things like that, I do agree that it would be a lot easier and more palatable if I didn’t talk about things like a Biblical Worldview, apologetics and the nature of reality itself. For one thing, Instagram wouldn’t throttle my account with its algorithms that are skewed to diminish voices like mine. It would be much easier to be so tethered to this app that I change everything I post to fit into its preferred framework. I would be asked to be part of influencer groups and activities like I was years ago. But I’m not that person anymore. Yes, the core of this community will always be an emphasis on homemaking which will include decorating and recipes but I can’t separate that from the core of who I am as a follower of Jesus Christ.

It would be so much easier for me to just show you the latest Amazon products I’ve bought and tell you to “comment” to get the links. But I’m not called to take the easy path. Matthew 7:13-14 says, “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many.”

I truly believe that so many have been lulled into thinking that the narrow gate wasn’t really all that narrow. But, it’s never been more obvious that it really is. And every day I seek to stay on that very narrow way.  More than ever before, I believe that our world needs to know that there is objective truth and a solid foundation to stand upon as we navigate our lives. My role as a homemaker is predicated on that foundation and everything else flows out of it. Talking about these things isn’t going to get me lots of views here. 

But I live for an audience of ONE.
The first time we hosted my in-laws for a meal was The first time we hosted my in-laws for a meal was in 1998. I was a new bride and eager to impress them. It did not go well. Let’s just say there was a bit of a garbage disposal mishap. 

It’s been over 25 years since then and I’ve learned so much about what really matters when it comes to hosting and caring for my family well during the holiday season. 

The peace we long for in our home begins with our hearts. If you want your home to feel more peaceful during the upcoming holiday season, I have five things to consider that will make that not only possible but predictable.

✨ Read the full article over at @club31women ✨

#club31women #wearethehomemakers
Here, in my little corner of social media, you won Here, in my little corner of social media, you won’t find a lot of unboxing of brand new items for Christmas. 

What I’m unboxing are the decorations in the attic that  I’ve had for years and figuring out how to give them a fresh look. I added new lights to an old pre-lit tree that no longer worked because I couldn’t bring myself to get rid of it. I’m putting out a different set of mugs at the hot cocoa station and the advent candles are arranged with greenery from outside.

As our feeds are filled with so.much.stuff, I want to offer you a reprieve. A place where you will find less emphasis on what’s happening in our homes and more on what’s happening in our hearts.

More than ever before, I can see just how much people are needing the hope found in Christ and that will always be the focus here. 

So, while you may not see me unpacking a massive, new tree or telling you to “comment for the link”, what you will see is encouragement to turn our hearts to what matters the most and let that reflect in every corner of our homes this season and all year long. 🌲

#wearethehomemakers #homemaking #homemakerschristmas #club31women
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