An all-purpose room can be added to your house or “borrowed” from part of the garage or basement. An attractive utility is ideal for taking off muddy shoes (or drying off a wet dog), and depositing school or office stuff. It can include a bench to sit on while you pull off your boots, hooks to hang raincoats and sports gear, and even a compact washer and dryer so dirty sports uniforms can go right into the laundry.