Our Not-So-Muddy Mudroom

Maybe "landing zone" is a better name for this area, since it's right in the middle of our house. If we come in muddy, we'll definitely be tracking a lot of dirt in before we make it to this area.

Originally, I wanted to get a hall tree, like this one:

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While that may happen eventually, it's way more of a financial commitment that we can handle after TV-gate 2014. Now we're going for something a little closer to this:

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Between that picture and finding a helluva deal on the bench -- (70% off!!!) plus it had a bum leg (another 25% discount) so we ended up snagging it for $26-- I decided to reconsider my inspiration for the foreseeable future. As far as the bench's bum leg goes, all we had to do was tighten a few screws and it was back in working order. I would love to add a faux wood wall like that or maybe some board and batten.

Like most parts of our house, this area still has a long journey ahead of it to make it functional for the long-term. However, the addition of something is doing a great deal to make the middle of the house feel a little less empty. Eventually, we'll add a basket for shoes and hooks for Boone-supplies and coats.

You may remember, getting this "room" established was one of the steps needed before Boone gets a new room, so we're getting closer...

Now, can you all help me and Pato settle a debate? I think the mail holder should be hung lower, but Pat loves that the top of it is even with the clock. I think that leaves to much negative space below. Please share your thoughts in the comments below.