Do you ever leave a project unfinished and it irks you that you never got it done? That’s me, at least when it comes to our mudroom. A few years ago I remodeled that space, but injured myself while doing so. I got done as much as I could and then stopped, planning to get back at it. Well, babies and life happen and time slips away. So…today I’m getting back in there and doing a mudroom makeover. Plus, we have two winners for last week’s giveaway AND kicking off a new giveaway today. Yay!!
First, let’s take a look at this project. This was our mudroom in the true before.
I won’t reiterate what I already wrote about in my other post that has all the juicy details how we got the mudroom to look like this…
Now, remember we are a family of 8 living in Ohio. That translates to 4 seasons worth of stuff – 4 season of shoes, coats, hats, etc. So you know we have a whole truck load, right? Here is the mudroom in real-life today…
DIY TIME
Not bad, right? But to me I didn’t get it finished. For one, I am using rugs that I found curbside or already here when we moved in 14 years ago. That in and of itself is totally fine with me, but it’s been too many years to count and time for new.
Did you notice I’m still using the ammunition box for my toddler’s shoes? She loves it so and it was such a fun project you can read about in this post.
The other thing I didn’t finish was the game closet at the end of the mudroom. Take a peek.
This is also where our beloved Teddy calls home (our miniature schnauzer). He loves his little cave – (and no, we don’t shut the door on him. tsk) it’s open all the time and that is what I have to see on a daily basis. Plus, my kids are constantly in here pulling stuff out. The fact that I never got it painted drives me nuts. In my first mudroom post I mention how buzzing your fingers on a table saw will cause you to not get it done. ouch.
Okay, let’s get that mudroom makeover done, shall we?
Budget fix #1:
First order of business was to yank everything out and get that toy closet refreshed. Easy fix with a couple coats of paint.
Ta Da!! Refreshed and so much easier to see what you’re looking for in there. whew!
Budget Fix #2:
Next, you’re going to laugh. ahem. When we redid our first renovation of the mudroom we were on a very tight budget and were mainly concerned about having enough light in this somewhat dark spot. I drilled through the center beam and added another light to our shelf area. We bought a simple fixture and it did the job.
No one sees in here but us, however, it was only weeks after installation that dreaded term “boob light” hit the internet. I could never look at that thing the same way again. I was determined to get rid of the “boob” next chance I got. Down it goes. Sorry if I just ruined it for you. Join the support group (or lack thereof for us in aged chest group – ha!)
I went to a local home improvement store online and found a fixture that would work, but it wasn’t locally available and I needed it quick. Plus, the price wasn’t quite what I wanted to spend since I’m replacing a perfectly good light. So, I hop onto eBay and found the exact same fixture for $30 less and had free shipping. {{happy dance}} I can’t tell you how many times I find deals in different places simply because I take the time to look.
Budget Fix #3:
Last, but not least were the rugs. They still have use and will go out to my workshop. Since I was wanting to not only update, but also create an inviting space for us.
First, I needed a rug pad. This mama doesn’t need 6 kids slipping all over the place.
MORE FUN
I even added this cute jute poof for a spot to set my things on or take my boots off. I love it! (psstt…I may even move it to my family room…don’t tell the kids!)
Up overhead I took a piece of barn wood and used my transfer method to make this whimsical sign. It adds that cozy touch I feel our mudroom makeover was needing.
There is one last fix that I need my partner, and best husband ever, to help me with. Our goal is to design better cubbies for our shoes. We have a plan in mind and will share when we get to it, but he is still working on our kitchen. More on that coming soon.
I hope you enjoyed my mudroom makeover and will consider giving your home a second look. Do pin and share to inspire others to give DIY a try.
Up next, I’ll be sharing some updates on our kitchen and some other fun. Don’t forget to stop by my shop to see what’s new!
Love rug in No. 1. It’s a classic. Great job on the mudroom/closet.
Saweet! Thank you, Janice.
I would choose rug #1. Great job on the mudroom….the ‘Haynes’ sign you made is the frosting on the cake!
Sweet! I love the addition of the sign for our fun. Thanks!
I would choose the first rug, it would compliment most any decor. Love your site, so much good information!
Thanks so much, Jewell. I try to help any way I can. 🙂
I would chose the Joy Blue rug. It’s really pretty and would work well in one of our bedrooms.
That one is a beauty! Though I have to say making a choice is hard because there are sooo many choices.
I would choose a red or orange shag for my mid mod family room.
Great idea!
Top left! Your mudroom looks great 🙂
Sweet! The choices aren’t limited to those in the graphic, the site has 1,000’s to choose from. 😉
I would choose Milan Ivory/Slate from their website. Thank
Ooh..that one is one I had as a choice for our family room. Good eye!
I would choose the Sedona Gray rug. So cute!
Sweet pick for sure.
Quilters choice by colonial mills is my choice 🙂
Good one! Love the colors in it.
Looking for a new rug for my covered front porch. Love the Kicks Cove Bright. Thanks for posting about this company. Bookmarked it so I can find it again. Loved the makeover in your mud room as well as all your others.
Wonderful to hear, Leona. Thank you!
I love the rug you got, but I think I would get it in green. Easton leaf is the name of it, I think. Thanks for the giveaway. As usual your prefects turn out great.
Yes, I had a hard time deciding. So many choices over there!
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/231372499587063355/
Shared your photo to pinterest.
eaton red q the one you chose love it!
It comes in a wonderful size arrangement. So nice to have choices!
http://www.facebook.com/ProdigalPieces/photos/a.574102152649691.1073741827.565645146828725/1324853820907850/?type=3&theater Shared on Facebook
I would pick one of the shag rugs, probably the teal!!
Oooh…that’s a sweet one! You go girl.
Haha boob light! I think we have three in our house! I’m now going to have replace them soon.?
Aww…sorry to ruin it for you! Had to be done though for me. Reconstructive surgery for sure!
://twitter.com/limecreek/status/823896313196519424
Tweeted
Larissa, your mudroom update looks great, especially the new light fixture, replacing the boob, LOL! I can’t believe how many rugs are available at Rug Expedition.! I would replace the rug in my front entrance with a Black Fleur de lis Aubusson rug.
Thanks so much! I can’t wait until we complete it all, but I am happy I can do those small things to make an improvement. That’s a sweet pick, Kaycee!
I love a natural look, and with three big dogs tracking in sand, their Loloi jute rug would be my first choice for looks AND durability.
That’s the one we got for our family room for the same reason. 6 kids, a dog, a cat, etc. It is awesome!
Your choice of Easton Red Q would look great in front of the washer and dryer located in my garage – adding warmth especially on cold days. Would have passed it without seeing your photo.
It seriously is so soft and cozy. Much better than our other one. You will love it!
Larissa, I pinned on Pintrest!
My favorite is Essence Ivory/Grey 55820-190 –
Good one! It’s so hard to choose from their 1000’s.
I would choose the Roma stream for my front entry
It would be lovely for you, Mary! Thanks for stopping by.
I would choose the Terrace Vine Marine. i would love to have a large outdoor rug for my new patio and pergola area. I love your posts and look forward to seeing them every day!
That would be wonderful! I would love to have one too. hmm…
I like rug 1, very pretty.
Good pick!
I love #3! And, also,I have mudroom envy!
tee hee hee. I had fun and love that we have this space. Makes up for our lack of other space. 😀
It looks so great girl
Thank you! If feel much better boobless. 😉
I love the serendipity in all the colors..I think my fav is the dove grey! So classic!
Lol, boob light, I am cracking up. I would love to try a jute rug to cover my 100 and some year old wood floors because at that age if you are still working you just need a little wig to get through many more years of wear?
Ooh…that would be sweet. Love your “Wig” idea. ahahahaha….
What a cute mudroom! I love your family sign I’ve been wanting to make one of those for awhile. I would love the adorable o1 grey for our bedroom.
Thanks, Meghan! We couldn’t live without that space. It is essential to this family, let me tell ya. Thanks for lovin’ on my sign. It was a fun pieces to add.
I’d choose the Giza 01 Natural by nuLoom. They price for the 9 x 12 is really good!!
There prices are hard to beat, especially the free shipping. Hope you win!
I love your mud room I would choose the anatolla0679 rug thanks
Wonderful to hear! Thank you, Brenda.
The Rallye Wheat really fits with my style.
Your mudroom looks so fresh now. I am ramping up to redo mine, so thanks for the push!
You go GIRL!
I think I would definitely be interested in the jute pouf. Lovely! Otherwise, any naturally colored rug would be my choice.
That thing is awesome! I may even use it as a nightstand.
You always make me smile. Never thought of the last fight fixtures as boob lights and there are 2 in our house – thankfully not in the same hall!! I would pick rug #1 since it would match the dog fur that accumulates in our home! Your mud room is great – love the rugs. Perfect choice for a family of 8 and the dirt that gets tracked in. Thank you for the good blog!
Ha! That is hilarious! My pleasure to share and thank you for the love.
I love “Blue Sophia” for my kitchen and “Capri Criss Cross Cool Grey” for my front patio. The colors tie in with my entry and with the exterior colors I already have in place. I LOVE your ideas and you do a fantastic job with the talents God has given you. Thanks for sharing with us.
You are making me ready to shop for spring! Thank you for your kind words and love, Charlenev.
I would choose rug # 1! 🙂
Yay!
I really do like your mudroom make-over. I have 2 of those “boob” lights at my house but I’ve never heard that expression before. I would love to have a new rug for my dining room from Rug Expedition and my favorite is the Ocracoke Blue V by Capel. Thanks for the chance to win a new rug!
Sorry to ruin it for you! 😀 That one would be beautiful.
I love the first rug! It’s beautiful and stylish! Glad you replaced the “boob” light. Ha ha I never realized that it looks like one. 😉
I didn’t either, but that’s what happens when you read the internet. Ha!
We have 2″boob” lights (kitchen and bathroom) . My husband put them up when I wasn’t home and I have been trying to get rid them ever since!! I would choose an indoor/outdoor rug that was just titled Ivory 2266W. It’s got a beautiful border!
Maybe sneak them out? hahaha…thanks for stopping by!
#1 is beautiful!
Yes!
Pinned!
We recently bought a new rug for our dining room. After we got it home, we looked at each other and said, “What were we thinking?!” We can’t justify replacing it yet, but if I could, I love the Home Town Bella Claret! It would be perfect! Who knows; maybe we’ll hit the lottery. Love your mud room redo!
Been there done that and no fun. Kinda that sinking feeling. :/ Hope you find one you are looking for…they have thousands!
Great transformation! Doesn’t it feel great to finally finish something you’ve put off?! Lol. The light fixture you chose is fantastic! I think my favorite rug is the 3rd one (bottom left). Right up my alley. ?
Absolutely, yes! So glad to have it done.
I rwally like rug number 1!
Fantastic!
I would choose the Silkshine white & Aqua rug!! Love the subtle pattern & color!!
Ooh…good pick, Sherry!
Pinned the giveaway & your mudroom to my board!! Your mudroom looks awesome! Love the light!! We used to have a boob light in the kitchen & laundry room! They were the first changes after I moved in!!
I have spent hours in the past looking (and ordering) one of their rugs. A really cute one I just found is the blue/ivory Ocean Surprise. They have SO many to choose from, even in the Under $99 category!
It is seriously addictive to shop there!
Eeeewww, I look at some of my lights differently now. I NEED to replace some of my “boobs”!
Sorry! Had to do it. 😀
Shared it on my Pinterest page.
I really like the Manchester Series. I am not 100% sure of the color I would purchase, there are so many great ones to choose from!
It is so hard to pick only one!
Love the update to your mudroom, so bright ! I really like the rug under the canopy bed, guess that is number 3. I would pick that one because it would be great in my bedroom that I am trying to update.
Oh, I hope you win so you can have that fresh feeling. Yay!
Love what you did to your mudroom. I have no mudroom but I’d settle for a nice Tiburon indoor/outdoor rug as I also have two big dogs who are like the postman: neither sleet nor rain…. And where I live in Canada we also have all kinds of weather. Today it’s freezing rain.
Ugh…I hear ya. What a trade though, right?
Unfortunatley, our home has several of the ‘boob’ lights. The one on the second floor in the stairwell irritates me the most. The Regal Silver rug I gorgeous ours- neautral, yet would provide visual interest.
Those are the worst! Take a slingshot, maybe? hee hee hee…just kidding. 😉
Lol, I haven’t heard it called a boob light but I can see why now!! To funny and I love the makeover, great job!!
Just had to get it gone, girlfriend. Sorry!
Wow, fantastic job on your mudroom! I’m working on turning our too-small attached garage into a entryway/mudroom so I’m looking for ideas! I LOVE your sign!
Whoa! I’m overwhelmed by the rug options! I really like the design on the Farahan Ivory though! It’d look great in my living room. : )
Good for you! I’m sure it will be awesome when you’re done. If you interested in a sign, just let me know! 😉
I envy you that super mudroom. What a blessing with a large family. I am excited about Makamani in the burned orange. Perfect for my kitchen. Thanks for sharing your down to earth experiences with us.
It is such a blessing, indeed!
I saved on pinterest in my Home Dec folder. Thanks.
I love your mudroom! Definitely I would go for the Ivory Multi AF-01 by Loloi, it has a worn vintage look and seems like it would blend well with many colors and styles. Your finger buzz accident is a reminder to me to let my darling run the saw…LOL! Pinned and Tweeted 🙂
Thank you! hahaha…too funny on the fingers. 😉
Your mudroom looks fab! I love the rag rugs & pouf that add that personal element & the removal of said boob light. I swear I won’t ever look at those lights the same & neither will my husband lol! I looked at the rugs & my pick for my new to me house would be Fantasy 16 Chocolate. I am an aqua/mint colored girl & this one has both! I look forward to your posts & especially am looking forward to the reveal on the long awaited kitchen. Blessings, Jenny
hee hee. That thing had to go to ease my mind. Sorry! 😀
I think the Milan/Ivory Slate would be perfect for my living room which is in dire need of a makeover!
I wasn’t sure if you meant for us to choose one of the 4 in your picture, or one from the website, so I’m doing both!
I like number 3 in your pic. the muted colors are great. From the website, like the Mint Firenze. That pattern is gorgeous! Thank for the giveaway!
My pleasure!
Your mudroom looks great! I love the Petra Nain rug in grey.
Thanks!
It looks terrific! I love the new rugs and the sign. They make it so cozy.
Thank you so much, Rachel. 😀