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How to create a compact cloakroom storage solution

By Bunnings magazine /

Close up of the corner of an entryway with a compact cloakroom/mudroom at the entrance, a free-standing divider, and a pale pink lounge

Overview

Tired of cluttered hallways and things being sprawled across the house? Learn how to build a mini mudroom (aka cloakroom) in the entryway to help declutter your space and boost organisation around the home. It’s also renter-friendly!

How to create a compact cloakroom

In six easy steps (below) you can construct and install a compact cloakroom/mudroom that’s clad in rich walnut tones, with a mirror that’s perfect for out-the-door touch ups.

Why build a mini mudroom?

  • Creating a space to store hats, jackets, shoes, boots and school bags in or near an entryway to your home will help with:
  • Organisation; Clutter; plus
  • Creates a practical, well-kept dedicated storage space; and
  • Keeps other living areas free of mess and clutter.

Steps

  1. 1

    Cutting list

    From 1200mm x 600mm pine panel:

    Plinth

    TOP: 600mm x 305mm

    FRONT AND BACK: 600mm x 200mm (2)

    Header

    TOP: 600mm x 323mm

    BATTEN: 600mm x 50mm

    Tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

    Close up of a timber plinth with a coat rack sitting on top.
  2. 2

    Prepare and construct the plinth

    For the plinth (base), on the top piece mark six holes 10mm from the edges at each corner and centred on the long sides, then predrill using a countersinking bit. Apply a bead of woodworking adhesive to top edge of front and back pieces, clamp in position against the plinth top and secure with 40mm screws; leave to set. Apply timber filler to the screw holes with a scraper, leave to dry, then sand plinth all over, wiping away dust with a cloth. Spray the plinth with two coats of clear gloss sealer, leaving to dry after each coat. Put the plinth in the mini cloakroom’s final position and place the coat rack centred on top to check for fit; remove coat rack. 
    Close up of a drill driving a screw into a timber frame on a wall.
  3. 3

    Prepare and construct the front panel

    For the front panel, on the 1800mm x 600mm pine panel mark two holes 100mm from the base and sides. On the header top mark six holes 10mm from the edges at each corner and centred on the long sides, and on the header batten mark two holes 100mm from the ends centred on the front face. Predrill all marked holes using a countersinking bit. Apply a bead of woodworking adhesive to the top of the front panel and batten, position against the header top, clamp in place and secure with 40mm screws; leave to set.
    Close up of a drill driving a screw into timber cladding
  4. 4

    Assemble the mini cloakroom

    Enlist another pair of hands to lift the assembly into position against the plinth. Check the header for level, then mark the location of the batten holes. Secure the batten to the wall using suitable fixings, then secure the base of the front panel to the plinth using 40mm screws through the predrilled holes.
  5. 5

    Secure the coat rack in place

    On the centre of the coat rack base, predrill a hole using a countersinking bit. Slide the coat rack into position on the centre of the plinth and secure the base with a 40mm screw. 
  6. 6

    Prepare and attach the front cladding

    For the front cladding, measure the finished height of the front (ours is 1818mm) to mark on the acoustic panel. Following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, cut the acoustic panel to size using a circular saw with straightedge, then sand cut edge and wipe away dust with a cloth. Apply construction adhesive to the back of the acoustic panel. With the factory-finished edge at the top, lift acoustic panel into place and press against the front panel. Secure through the felt using button-head screws, fixed at 300mm spaces across the width and 600mm along the length. Measure and cut the end caps to length, and install using construction adhesive; leave to set.
    Close up of an entryway cloak room, with timber cladding and a divider
  7. 7

    Position and hang the mirror

    For the mirror, mark your desired position on the cladding with painter’s tape. Following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, apply mirror mounting tape and adhesive to the back of the mirror and press into position. Install self-adhesive strip lights along edge of the cladding, run the cable under the plinth and plug in.

    Assembly and cutting tips

    • “Measure twice, cut once” is an old tradie adage that’s very sound advice! For any D.I.Y. project, check and recheck the measurements that apply to your space and premade elements of the build, such as the coat rack we used, before cutting.
    • Our mini cloakroom plinth sits flush against the wall. If you need to make allowance for a skirting board, adjust the header top dimensions.
    • To cut the plinth and header pieces, mark the timber using a combination square, and cut to size using a circular saw with a straightedge clamped to the workbench; sand cut edges and wipe away dust.

    Tip: Did you know you can take advantage of our cutting service for many timber products? Enquire at your local store.

  8. 8

    Keep in mind...

    • When using power tools, always protect ears and eyes with ear muffs and safety glasses (gloves and mask are also recommended), follow the manufacturer’s instructions and work in a well-ventilated area.
    • If using contact adhesive, follow the packaging instructions and safety advice carefully. Wear eye protection, a mask and disposable gloves.

    After more savvy rental declutter ideas?

    Discover how to keep your rental in shape for inspections with this handy guide.

     

    Photo credit: Adrian Lander, Eunice Oh.

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.