Designing a laundry room that is both functional and stylish can make a routine chore much more enjoyable. With thoughtful planning and a few creative design touches, you can create a space that makes laundry easier and more efficient while still being visually appealing.
In the video above, This Old House plumbing expert Richard Trethewey shares some clever laundry room features and design elements from an interior designer, highlighting ideas that any homeowner can use to make laundry day easier and more enjoyable.
Choosing the Perfect Laundry Location
The location of your laundry room plays a big role in how convenient and efficient it will be.
Proximity to Living Areas
Positioning your laundry room near frequently used spaces can make the task easier. Ideal spots include areas near the kitchen, bedrooms, hallway, or in a mudroom. Having it close to where you spend most of your time simplifies laundry tasks and makes it easier to keep up with your to-do list.
Natural Light
If possible, choose a location with windows to take advantage of natural light. It brightens up the space and helps with tasks like checking for stains or sorting clothes. If windows aren’t an option, you can add skylights or solar tubes to bring in more light and create a pleasant atmosphere.
Primary Suite Access
For maximum convenience, think about placing the laundry room near or within the primary bedroom suite. This setup reduces the time and effort needed to transport laundry and makes it easier to manage your wardrobe.
Essential Laundry Room Design Elements
When designing your laundry room, incorporating certain key features will enhance both function and style.
Color Scheme
Choose light, refreshing colors to make the space feel clean and welcoming. Soft shades like pale blue, light green, soft yellow, or crisp white work well in laundry rooms and promote a calming atmosphere.
Lighting
Good lighting is important for a functional laundry room. Use a combination of task lighting over work areas and ambient lighting for overall brightness. Decorative lighting, like a chandelier or stylish pendants, can add a fun design element while keeping the room well-lit.
Flooring
Select durable, water-resistant flooring that’s easy to clean. Options like luxury vinyl, porcelain tile, or sealed concrete are practical and stylish, making them great choices for laundry rooms. These materials hold up well against spills and daily wear.
Maximizing Efficiency in the Laundry Room
A well-organized and efficient laundry room can save you time and reduce strain. Here are some expert ideas.
Ergonomic Appliance Placement
Raise your washer and dryer off the ground to a comfortable height, especially if you’re using front-loading machines. This can help reduce bending and make loading and unloading easier. Many front-loaders come with pedestal drawers that provide extra storage while lifting the machines.
Ample Counter Space
Install a countertop above front load machines or add a separate counter for folding clothes and other tasks. Solid, easy-to-clean surfaces like quartz or laminate work well and provide a durable workspace for sorting laundry.
Smart Storage Solutions
Incorporate various storage options to keep everything organized. You might add:
- Upper cabinets for laundry supplies like detergents and fabric softeners
- Base cabinets to hide hampers or cleaning tools
- Open shelves for quick access to frequently used items
- Built-in cubbies for sorting and organizing clothes and linens
Innovative Laundry Room Features
Add innovative features to make your laundry room even more functional and convenient.
Jetted Laundry Sink
A jetted laundry sink is great for hand-washing your delicates or removing stains. This feature makes caring for special garments easier and more comfortable.
Heated Drying Cabinet
For items that need gentle drying, a heated drying cabinet is an excellent addition. It’s perfect for drying sweaters, wet shoes, or even sports gear without using the dryer.
Entertainment Options
Turn laundry time into a more enjoyable experience by adding entertainment options, like a small TV or music system. Some designs even include under-cabinet TVs that flip down for easy viewing while you fold clothes.
Sustainable Laundry Room Design
You can make your laundry room eco-friendly by incorporating energy-saving appliances and sustainable materials.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
Choose ENERGY STAR-certified washers and dryers, which use less water and electricity. These appliances often feature advanced technologies, like sensor-based drying and water-saving cycles, which can reduce your utility bills and environmental impact.
Water Conservation
Look for ways to save water in your laundry room:
- Install a high-efficiency washer that uses less water per load.
- Use a greywater system to reuse water from the washing machine for other household tasks.
- Add a water-efficient faucet for hand-washing or other cleaning needs.
Eco-Friendly Materials
Use sustainable materials when designing your laundry room. Ideas include:
- Recycled glass countertops provide a stylish, eco-friendly surface.
- Bamboo or cork flooring offers renewable, environmentally friendly alternatives.
- Low-volatile organic compound (low-VOC) paints improve indoor air quality.
- Reclaimed wood shelving adds character while supporting sustainability.
