The Bootility Room: The Combined Boot Room and Utility Room
At Herringbone we love designing rooms and spaces that work for our clients and their homes. The bootility room is a great way of optimising functional spaces and keeping the practical side of the home in one place. Designing a combined boot room and utility room requires thoughtful planning to ensure functionality and aesthetic appeal that works for you and your family situation. Here are some key considerations and design ideas:
Optimising Layout: Determine the best layout based on available space and your needs. Consider factors like the location of doors and windows, plumbing and electrical requirements, and traffic flow. If you have animals, a place to wash them down after a long walk or during the winter months should also be considered. It’s about optimising functional space that works for the here and now.
Storage Solutions: Incorporate ample storage for both boots and utility items. Use cabinets, shelves, hooks, and drawers to keep things organised and to ensure everything has a place. Consider adding a banquette bench or seating area with built-in storage for shoes and boots.
Durable Flooring: Choose durable flooring materials that can withstand heavy foot traffic and potential spills. Options like Victorian tiles, limestone tiles or porcelain tiles are practical, easy to clean and durable making them convenient choices for both boot rooms and utility rooms.
Mudroom Essentials: Include features specifically tailored for a mudroom, such as a boot tray or rack for wet and muddy footwear. A sink or hose hookup can be handy for cleaning muddy boots, animals or outdoor gear.
Laundry Facilities: Ensure there's enough space for the washer, dryer, and laundry supplies. Consider adding a folding worktop area or drying rack for added convenience. Adding floor to ceiling cabinets for storing ironing boards, hoovers and mops can help keep the area organised.