A mudroom may be a utilitarian space, though with a little creativity, it can become one of the most stylish areas in your home. Our recent mudroom makeover proves just how transformative a thoughtful wallpaper choice can be. From functional to fabulous, here is how we refreshed this hardworking space with a simple yet impactful update—and tips for your own entryway design project.
Mudroom Makeover: Transform Your Space with the Perfect Wallpaper
Before the Makeover: A Blank Slate
Before this latest iteration of our mudroom transformation, we had already added a built-in bench with cubbies to increase storage. As my interior style has evolved since we first tackled the space in 2017, I felt it was time for a little facelift. The original shiplap leaned more farmhouse than my current taste, especially since it was our very first project in this ranch home. I wanted to soften that look and create a space that still felt practical while adding a bit more charm to our daily comings and goings.
The Vision: Practical Meets Pretty
When planning this mudroom makeover, our goals were simple:
Keep it functional for everyday use
Add visual interest without clutter
Infuse a bit of charm and character
Wallpaper became the hero of this renovation. It is one of the easiest ways to inject pattern, color, and mood into a room—especially a small one like a mudroom. We always opt for traditional wallpaper with glue for ease of installation while choosing a design that felt classic yet current.
Choosing the Right Wallpaper for a Mudroom
When selecting wallpaper for a high-traffic area like a mudroom, there are a few key things to consider:
Durability: Go for materials that can withstand occasional scuffs or can be wiped down easily.
Pattern Scale: In a smaller space, medium to large-scale patterns work well to create visual impact without feeling busy.
Color Palette: Choose colors that complement the rest of your home’s entryway design while also hiding dirt and wear.
We ultimately chose a soft light blue stripe—eye-catching yet not overwhelming. It instantly made the space feel more polished. The color ties in well with our custom bench seat cushion and the patterns do not clash. Initially, I wanted to go wish a grassweave cloth, though I do find it really hard to match the seams, so we went with the stripes.
Wallpaper Installation: What to Know
We tackled the wallpaper installation ourselves, and here is what helped us along the way:
Prep the Walls: Clean, dry surfaces are key. For traditional wallpaper, we paint the walls with this gripper to help the wallpaper stick better and this glue is the *best*.
Measure Twice: Accurate measurements help avoid mismatched seams and wasted material.
Use a Level: Start with a straight line to ensure your pattern does not drift as you work down the wall.
Smooth As You Go: A plastic smoothing tool is your best friend to eliminate bubbles and ensure good adhesion.
Tip: If you are wallpapering behind hooks or shelving, cut pieces to fit after those items are removed, then reinstall for a clean finish.
The After: A Fresh, Functional Entryway
With the wallpaper installed, our mudroom instantly felt like a curated extension of our home—not just a pass-through. The stripes added personality, while the rest of the space—built-in storage, baskets, and a bench—remained fully functional.
What was once a bland drop zone is now a favorite corner of the house. And the best part? The entire makeover (including wallpaper, paint touch-ups, and a few new accessories) took the equivalent of one weekend.
Design Tips for Your Own Mudroom Makeover
Add hooks at varying heights for coats, bags, and kid (or dog) gear.
Layer in texture with baskets or woven bins for storage
- I bought three of these woven baskets for our overhead cabinets
Include a small rug or runner to soften the floor and add warmth.
I added this Ruggable runner in the tufted texture in a size 2.5′ x 7.’ Ruggables are great for a high traffic area since they wash so well. This is the jute rug that we put right at the door way to help catch dirt and such.
Use art or framed prints alongside wallpaper to complete the look.
Rifle Paper Co. is one of my favorite places for art prints, including this quote in this frame.
Incorporate closed storage to keep clutter out of sight.
- Add magnetic door stops to prevent any nicks or damage to the wall.
- We used this one for the entryway door and this one for the closet door.
- Hang a mirror for last minute check-ins before walking out the door.
- We hung this round one to fill the space.
Mudroom Makeover Materials List
- See our original makeover with the installation of the shiplap, seat, and cubbies here
- Scandinavian Wallpaper in Polka Stripe – 7863
- Rifle Paper Co. Art Prints + White Picture Frame with Mat
- Pura Kit + Illume Citrus Crush Scent
- Rejuvenation Magnetic Door Stop
- Rejuvenation Traditional Floor Mounted Door Stop
- Ruggable Tufted Runner
- Etsy Jute Door Mat
- Woven Basket
- Gold Mirror
Final Thoughts
A mudroom may be small, and yet it plays a big role in daily routines. With the right wallpaper and a few smart design choices, you can turn this functional space into something beautiful and intentional. Whether you are prepping for back-to-school chaos or simply want a more welcoming entryway, a wallpapered mudroom makeover might be the refresh your home needs.
