Designing a productive and Inviting Laundry
When it comes to designing a laundry room functionality doesn’t have to come at the expense of style. From an Interior Designers point of view I believe that every space in your home should reflect your personal taste, including the often-overlooked laundry. With the use of careful planning and by infusing glamour and smart innovative design ideas, you can transform it into a practical and aesthetically pleasing area.
So where do you start? Below are some ideas, tips and tricks that are often overlooked to help you create an inviting yet highly functional Laundry that you will enjoy spending time in!
Designer | Greer Mayberry Design
Laundry Location:
When designing your laundry, first thing is first - where is it going to be located in the house? For convenience ideally your laundry should be placed on the main floor anywhere off the kitchen, mudroom or garage with a second entrance into the hall.
Where possible try not to place the laundry too close to sleeping areas - the noise will wake others up
Positioning your laundry with an external door to the washing line will help with ducking out and hanging the laundry
Layout:
Planning the layout of your laundry is key to maximising workflow and efficiency.
Choose your Laundry appliances first within the planning phase to ensure you have enough room for them within the layout
Ideally position your washer and dryer side by side, allowing for easy transfer of clothes between the two appliances.
Consider positioning your washing machine between your sink and laundry baskets to reduce double handling
For a sleek and streamlined look, consider integrating your washer and dryer into custom cabinetry - integrated appliances provide a seamless appearance, allowing the focus to be on the design elements rather than the machinery.
Leave enough bench space for folding and sorting clothes
If space permits - add cabinets or shelves above or beside the appliances for laundry essentials
3. Ample storage solutions:
An organised Laundry space is key to keeping everything tidy and accessible.
Invest in cabinetry solutions to accomodate your laundry supplies; cleaning agents and other essentials and achieve an organised laundry
Install cabinets with adjustable shelving to store detergent, cloths, stain removers and cleaning tools
Incorporate pull out baskets for sorting laundry within your cabinetry
Designate a specific place for an ironing board and iron
Hooks or wall mounted racks can be handy for hanging clothes and storing brooms, mops and vacuum cleaners
Consider open shelves with decorative baskets or boxes to store laundry essentials in a visually appealing way, going beyond the typical laundry cabinetry and making an impact on the overall appeal of the space
4. Adequate lighting:
Good lighting is crucial in a laundry room to ensure accurate sorting, stain removal and folding as well as it also gives the illusion of a larger and more inviting space
Natural light is ideal, so if possible, including windows or skylights in your design will brighten up the space
In the absence of natural light; opt for bright, cool toned artificial lighting
Consider task lighting above the work areas
General ambient lighting for overall illumination is key; consider statement light fixtures to elevate the style of your laundry; a wall or pendant light will enhance the visual appeal of the space whilst also ensuring adequate light for functionality
5. Efficient work surfaces:
Having sufficient counter space in you laundry can make a world of difference. It provides an area for folding clothes, sorting laundry and treating stains.
Choose durable and low maintenance materials such as a quartz or laminate for the countertops as they are resistant to stains and moisture
Opting for stone or quartz bench tops are not only practical but also a high-quality luxurious material adding sophistication and visual interest to the space
If space is limited, consider installing a bench top that can be folded down or pulled out of the cabinetry
6. Practical and pleasing Flooring:
Selecting the right flooring for your laundry room is essential, as this area is prone to moisture and spills.
Opt for water resistant and easy-to-clean flooring options like non porous tiles, sealed concrete or even vinyl (yes you can get some good ones these days!)
Step it up a little by incorporating a patterned tile which hides the dirt, these materials are not only durable but also offer a wide range of designs and styles to suit your aesthetic preferences
Consider placing a durable and water absorbent mat near the washer and dryer to catch an drips or spills and to add another texture to the space
7. Proper Ventilation:
Laundries can generate excess humidity and unpleasant odours. To prevent mould and mildew growth, ensure proper ventilation in the space.
Install an exhaust fan or a vented dryer to remove moist air and lint from the room
Where possible plan for an opening window or door in your laundry
8. Incorporate folding and hanging space:
Make laundry tasks more convenient by incorporating dedicated folding and hanging areas. A folding station with ample bench space allows you to sort and fold clothes easily
Include a hanging rod or retractable clothesline for air-drying delicate garments or clothin items that cannot be tumble-dried
Consider installing a wall-mounted ironing board to save space when not in use.
9. Stepping it up from mundane to magical?
If you have the budget and an alluring laundry is what you are looking for, step up the aesthetic by including the following elements:
Add a pop of personality and glamour to your laundry room by using bold and eye catching wallpaper that stands up to water
Choose a sophisticated and elegant colour scheme that complements the overall design of your home
Incorporate hardware (taps, draw pulls) to enhance the feeling of your laundry - shiny brass handles and tap anyone?
Elegant tiled backsplashes can elevate the visual appeal of the room, making laundry chores a more enjoyable experience
A space for your pet friends food bowls to live concealed into the cabinetry is an added bit of luxury for you both
