How To Create Functional Drop Zone for Your Home
As Summer is coming to a close and the back-to-school buzz begins to fill the air I always find myself accessing the drop zones in my own home to ensure an organized start to the school year. As interior designer, I understand the importance of organization and functionality, especially in high-traffic areas like the mudrooms/entry ways. A well-designed “Drop Zone” will help keep the chaos at bay and ensure a smooth transition from school to home. It’s always great to make sure the kids drop everything in the designated spot when they come in the door whether it be: backpacks, shoes, homework, jackets, football gear.
Your Space
It’s always best to first take a step back and take a critical look at the space you have and analyze what the best use of this space is. What are the existing storage solutions? What is the space lacking functionality wise? This step will help you understand what modifications are needed to optimize the space.
Create Zones
I always like to start by dividing the space into the zones needed for your family. Each family member should have a space for shoes, coats, keys, hats, mittens. Kids will need additional space for backpacks, lunch boxes, athletic equipment. Clearly defined zones make it so much easier to stay clean and organized and makes it more likely for the space to remain that way.
Storage Solutions
There are so many ways to optimize a space. If there is room, consider installing boot bench or cubbies for each person in your family. If you have a smaller space, you can maybe do open shelving and hooks.
Utilizing Space
My favorite Way to do boot benches is to go all the way to the ceiling with built in cabinetry. I like to conceal everything behind doors, if possible, with exception to shoes. This extra storage will help keep seasonal items, like winter accessories, out of sight but within reach when needed.
Seating
It’s always great to incorporate seating if you have the space so everyone can sit and take off there shoes comfortably. Usually under the seating I will have storage cubbies that go to the tiled floor for each family member.
Organizing
To maintain mudroom area, I do love labeling bins, so each family knows what goes where.
Function & Style
Function is key but I love to pretty up a space by adding pops of color, texture so it becomes an inviting space that is very practical. You can turn your mudroom into a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing area that adds value and convenience to your daily life.
Maintenance
The key to a successful drop zone is regular maintenance. Establish a daily routine with your family. Consistency will make it easier to maintain the organization and functionality of your mudroom or entry way throughout the school year.
As the back-to-school season approaches, transforming your mudroom or entry way into a well-designed “Drop Zone” can significantly enhance your family’s daily routine. Emphasize organization and functionality by creating designated zones, utilizing smart storage solutions, and optimizing vertical space. With labeled storage, comfortable seating, and a touch of style, your mudroom will become the perfect space to welcome your kids home from school, keeping chaos at bay while maintaining an inviting ambiance.
