Small Details, Big Impact: DIY Mudroom Locker Design
/DIY Built-In Mudroom Lockers with Stylish Storage Details
They say the devil’s in the details—but in design, I think that’s where the magic is. My mudroom has been begging for custom storage for years, and now that I’m finally building my own DIY locker built-ins, I’m realizing just how many small design choices can take this space from “functional” to “freaking fabulous.” In this post, I’m sharing all the plans for how I’m turning a blank wall into a thoughtfully designed custom storage moment.
In interior design, the opportunities to add details and special touches are endless. It’s all about knowing where they fit in to create both function and style.
When I began my mudroom makeover, I shared an overview of the entire room’s design. But now that I’ve started building the DIY mudroom locker built-ins (more on that below!), I’ve realized just how many details I can add to them to make the space even more of a showstopper. In this post, I’m diving into what’s really going to make this room pop.
To give you a good idea of what I’m working with, here’s a sketch of my mudroom locker layout:
For context, the wall between the cabinet on the left and the door on the right is about 10 feet long with standard 8-foot ceilings - plenty of space to pack in smart storage solutions. Okay, now let’s dive into the fun stuff!
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Why I Went With MDF Instead of Plywood
At first, I debated building the lockers out of plywood (keeping the natural wood tones) versus MDF. While both would have looked great, I ultimately chose MDF for this built-in project - and here’s why:
It’s a chance to try something new. I’ve never worked with MDF, and I’ve heard it gives a super smooth finish for painted cabinetry.
It’s about half the cost of cabinet-grade plywood. Budget-friendly win.
This is already going to be an intense build. I didn’t want to add the additional complexity of staining everything, which is certainly not my forte. Instead, I’ll be painting the lockers Dark Auburn to match the color drenched room. But not to worry, these lockers will be anything but boring.
The 8-Foot Mudroom Bench That Balances Form and Function
The main catalyst for this entire makeover was to use this space for functional storage. That all starts with a massive 8-foot bench chock-full of shoe storage. As you can see in the drawing, I’m building shoe cubbies for each family member, with a shelf for maximum storage-ability.
I intentionally kept the cubbies open and level with the floor, because let’s be honest, if shoes don’t slide in easily, they’ll just end up in a pile. My hope is that even the laziest kid will be able to manage this system (we’ll see how it goes).
On top, the bench will be upholstered in a patterned fabric cushion. Because most of the room is the same color, I want to use this as an opportunity to lean into a fun, maybe unexpected pattern to add texture, movement, and a little softness to balance all the hard surfaces.
I haven’t done a deep dive into fabric options yet, but below are two (very different) options that I’m liking so far. The tiger fabric has that unique flair I’m looking for, but the light color makes me a little nervous. The floral pattern leans into the softness and will bring out some other colors I’ll be incorporating throughout the room, but might not be edgy enough to fit the vibe I'm going for.
Beadboard Walls & Unique Hooks
Now, here’s where the “lockers” part gets a twist. I’m not actually adding dividers above the bench. Instead, I want to keep the wall open for a cleaner, more modern look. To avoid a big blank wall, I’m heavily considering beadboard paneling. Not only will this bring in extra texture, but it will also echo the beadboard from our half bathroom - a subtle callback that ties the spaces together.
Of course, what’s a mudroom without hooks? I’m hunting for fun and unique coat hooks to line this space. Here are the options I’m currently obsessing over:
Cupboards, Cabinets & Inset Doors
Above the bench, I’m building four upper mudroom cabinets to echo the four shoe cubbies, because… who doesn’t love extra storage!? These cabinets will also be my first attempt at making inset cabinet doors!
On the far left, I’m adding a tall skinny cabinet for coats we don’t use every day, plus a top shelf for overflow storage. This vertical element will help balance the space (here’s looking at you, storage room door) and pack in more functionality.
And if the hooks don’t end up being the statement moment, I’ll definitely play with unique cabinet hardware. Knobs and handles are such an easy way to add personality. Here are some that have caught my eye:
Construction Progress
It’s been wild to finally see this design take shape after dreaming about it for so long. MDF has a small learning curve, but so far, so good. Next up: tons and tons of finishing touches—trim, paint, hardware, and those little details that really make built-ins shine.
Stay tuned! There’s still SO much I have planned for this space.
Catch up on the full mudroom renovation with these posts:
A Fresh Take on Mudroom Design: Color, Storage, and Modern Touches
Mudroom Makeover in Progress: Bold Paint, Spiral Staircases & Custom Swinging Doors
