Shiplap paneling, which echoes the home’s exterior, eases the transition from outside; it’s also a durable surface for mounting hooks and stands up to scuff marks. See more

The herringbone brick floor was made from salvaged red-clay sidewalk blocks. Sliced to tile thickness and set with mortar, they provide a scratchproof surface underfoot. See more

A side-entrance mudroom like this one, designed by architect Gary Vinciguerra, offers a convenient place to drop grocery bags and gear when you step in from the driveway. … See more

Old framing studs form the bench top; you can get a similar look using a slab of butcher block. For adults to sit comfortably, build a bench seat 18 to 24 inches deep and 18 to 2… See more

Slate floor tiles are easy to clean, and their cleft surface is slip-resistant—important in a high-traffic zone. Porcelain tiles and concrete are other great choices. See more