Ask anyone what their least favorite chore is, and inevitably high on that list next to scrubbing toilets is doing laundry. Just when you finish one load and put it away, there’s another waiting in the wings. In the 1970s and 1980s when homes became larger and washers and dryers became quieter, laundry rooms were moved to the main floor. This made things more convenient for families. In recent years we’ve seen many homeowners decide to place laundry rooms near the master bedroom for easy access.
Whether off the garage and incorporated into a mud room design, or upstairs near bedrooms, the laundry room has evolved from serving one clear purpose to offering so much more. From doggy stations to folding areas, your laundry room is a blank canvas, and although it’s a chore we might not love, it’s one that gets done the most. What should be included in a laundry room design? That depends on your family’s needs and personal style. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing.
If you have the space, consider a center island.
They’re not only amazing in kitchens, they’re amazing everywhere. A center island provides additional countertop space for sorting and folding clothes as well as other tasks like gift-wrapping or breaking down those Amazon delivery boxes. An island also offers additional storage underneath for cleaning and laundering supplies as well as other necessities. If a stationary island isn’t in your budget, there are several portable center island options as well. Select countertop materials like wood, marble, or quartz depending on your design aesthetic. Another option that achieves the same goal is a small table. While a table won’t provide cabinet storage, it will provide that tabletop space for working.
Give your laundry room some style!
There are so many simple elements and additions that can help make this room feel cozy. If you’re going to spend a good amount of time in this space, it doesn’t need to be sterile. Start with a warm shag rug or a bold wallpaper pattern. Detergent bottles and cleaning products are usually large, with busy patterns. Create a more serene space by utilizing storage accessories like glass jars, wicker baskets and cute containers instead. If everything has its place, items are easy to find. No more searching for that sewing kit or extra dryer sheets.
How about adding a backsplash between your washer and dryer and upper cabinets? This creates a new level of sophistication. For an even more cohesive look, match the backsplash to your flooring! Speaking of flooring, why not make it fun? Experiment with tile patterns like checkered or herringbone. Since this room is typically separated from the rest of your main floor, you can make bold choices without it ruining any flow. This is your space to take those design risks that you might otherwise hesitate to take in other areas of your home. This can be a beautiful space with carefully thought out design and decor.
Give everything a place with stylish storage solutions…and plenty of them.
Here are a few storage solutions that will help your laundry room function beautifully.
- Hanging rack: A practical solution to make it easy to air-dry clothes.
- Laundry-sorting system: Keep your laundry organized, which will save you time in the long-run. This can be sorted by family member, colors, or materials.
- Cabinetry. Even if you’re short on space, utilize nearby storage in an adjacent hallway. Custom cabinets are an ideal solution for optimal storage.
- Open shelving: This type of storage can help a compact space feel more open. This is an organizational solution that leverages square footage in a smart way.
- Tall cabinets: Utilize vertical space. You can store seasonal items up high, or can use tall cabinets to store your ironing board or linens.
Need a work station nook? Don’t rule out the laundry room.
Since the laundry room is often off of the kitchen, it can be a perfect spot to add a desk. This can be a place where kids can do homework (or one of their e-learning days!), or for parents to tackle home tasks like balancing the checkbook or sorting coupons…all while the laundry is running. If the layout of your laundry room allows for wrap-around countertops, you can easily create a work area by adding a stool. With counter space and upper storage, a workstation is a natural addition to any laundry room. It’s priceless to have a spot to sit while quickly mending a button or sending off that late email. Near your work station you can place a family calendar and peg board to make sure all family members are aware of invitations and special events. An organized home is a happy home.
Don’t forget your four-legged family member.
If you have a beloved pet, you know that they’re just as much a part of your family as your two-legged children. A laundry room is the perfect place to incorporate a designated dog washing station. This is a wonderful way to get pup’s paws cleaned up before entering the rest of your home. Have a kitty? Finding a discreet place for their litter box can prove to be a challenge. A laundry room space can include a hidden kitty den with a litter box. If you want your pet to eat away from the rest of the family in their own private dining room, it doesn’t take much space at all to set aside an area for their water and food bowls. Delegate a bit of storage to your pet to keep leashes, toys, snacks, and more.
Even though the laundry room is all about function, that doesn’t mean it needs to lack personality. After all, it’s more fun to do laundry if you’re in a room that puts a smile on your face. J&J Construction is your go-to expert when it comes to both laundry room and mud room additions or renovations. Our designers are eager to meet in order to discuss what should be included and how to create the perfect laundry room. If you’d like more information about our renovation process, we would love to hear from you. Reach out to us for a free phone consultation: You can schedule one with our experienced team today!
