Sunday Strolls + Scrolls is a series inspired by the interiors and exterior spaces I discovered while browsing the web. I especially love spaces that convey a sense of sanctuary. I hope the series feels like a relaxing walk down a charming street, a peaceful stroll through a garden, or a quiet peek inside a lovely neighborhood home during an open house.
I adore small spaces in a home, especially when they’re thoughtfully designed and put to good use. Today’s inspiration focuses on charming small mudrooms and pantry areas. If you have a small closet, alcove, or niche, it could be transformed into a functional spot—who wouldn’t appreciate an extra pantry, a compact mudroom, or a practical kitchen extension?
Some homes dedicate entire rooms to these functions, but there’s something wonderful about making a small footprint work beautifully. Even a tight corner can become both useful and attractive with the right ideas.
One area in our house affected by our renovation is our compact mudroom. Right now it contains a door to the backyard, a small pantry closet, a door to the garage, and our powder room—five doorways in that one little space when you include the passage to the kitchen.
With the addition for my parents’ bedroom, the backyard door will be closed off. We will add a set of French doors in the kitchen for backyard access, which means the mudroom will lose much of its natural light. Replacing a door that brings in light with a wall isn’t ideal, but that change also creates new possibilities for how the space can be used. I’m already thinking about ways to introduce more light and make the area practical and lovely.
I’ll share a post soon showing the mudroom ideas and the layout we’ll be working with. For now I’m collecting inspiration and considering options for when the door is removed and for future updates. Stay tuned for more ideas and progress photos.
For now, I hope these small spaces—full of character and clever storage—spark ideas for your home.
More inspiration on The Inspired Room:
Six Unexpected Ways to Create a Cozy Entry
Mudroom Inspiration Photos
Kitchen Pantry Inspiration: Slide Out Pantry Drawers
How to Decorate When Your Front Door Opens Into Your Living Room
A Cozier Entry (mood board with sources)
