February, a welcome short month after the long and tedious challenge that January typically brings, especially true for this year. As we wave goodbye to the snow of January and look forward to the daffodils blooming – and with lockdown in place for the foreseeable with most of us coveting our exercise time – more time in the great outdoors calls for a designated room in which to keep those muddy boots, damp leads and winter coats.
If you’re looking to update or install your dream boot room, here’s some guidance from Will Lyne, owner of bespoke kitchens and furniture company Christopher Peters, on the best boot room designs and how to implement them in your home.
Bring the outside in
Traditionally, a boot room is accessible from the main hallway or backdoor, and the room closest in proximity to the beauty of the great outdoors. Therefore, by incorporating natural elements, like bare oak and walnut surfaces and features, you will give your boot room a country-chic feel. Combine the raw, unfinished look of the wooden surfaces with pewter or nickel hardware for an industrial feel, or copper tones for a more delicate, feminine look.
Combine practical materials and smart solutions
Always bear in mind that, when designing the layout and practical elements of the space, your boot room will often see more traffic than any other place in the home. Therefore, opt for finishes that can be wiped clean without leaving smears. Think hard-wearing, with tiled areas underneath footwear storage, fitted coir doormats by entryways and, if the space allows, a sink or low-level shower for muddy paws.
Don’t leave design at the door
Just because a boot room is built to maximise the functionality of the space, this doesn’t mean that its cohesiveness with the rest of the home should be disregarded. By bringing the design elements of the surrounding space, whether that’s your kitchen, entryway or living area into the room, it will ultimately have a more stylish feel that will ensure fluidity throughout your home.
Savvy solutions hide a multitude of sins
If your boot room is supposed to fulfil two functions – both a storage space and a utility room – then make the most of bespoke cabinetry to successfully maximise the use of the space. Just as you would integrate a fridge in the kitchen, here you can hide washing machines and tumble dryers behind beautiful doors for a classic look. Include a worktop surface in one area for washing and folding and an entirely separate space for storage. Add banks of pegs – at high and low levels – for coats, hats and schoolbags and storage baskets for dog leads and treats. And for extra convenience, include a laundry bin for muddy socks and towels.
Take a seat
A storage bench with a comfy cushion and pull-out baskets or bins tucked away underneath perfectly combines form and function. Ensure you opt for a washable fabric for the cushion and stick with darker, earthier tones if you want the surface to withstand wear and tear.
All places great and small
Small boot room spaces can be just as practical – and beautiful – as something on a grander scale.
Think about creating something that combines high-level storage, hooks, seating and low-level shoe storage. Designing a bespoke piece of furniture that will completely fill the space whilst also fulfilling your needs will ensure you’re maximising the potential of your home.
Implementing these features is an investment for a more harmonious, organised and streamlined home – as well as the lap of luxury for man’s best friend – so take the time to find a design that really does fulfil your needs. For a complimentary design meeting with our in-house team, visit christopherpeters.com.
All imagery supplied by Christopher Peters.
