by Kristen West
transforming a space meant for chores into a luxe, stylish area
BETWEEN SORTING, WASHING, DRYING AND FOLDING, the laundry room sees a lot of action. But with thoughtful design, this utilitarian room can become a sud-sational laundry space.
Start by envisioning what you’ll need for laundry purposes and what would be a bonus, like hidden hampers, a sorting station or stylish storage. Choose a theme and color palette that complements the rest of your home. A contemporary space with sleek metallic finishes like brushed nickel and minimalistic cabinetry will feel clean and classy. For a farmhouse vibe, embrace warm, neutral tones, rustic wood elements and touches of greenery.
Play with patterns and textures in the flooring and backsplash, like herringbone tile, Moroccan-inspired prints or a modern geometric design. Don’t be afraid to mix prints for a unique, eclectic feel. You can also add color and finesse through your hardware and accents. Pair a farmhouse-style sink with bold brass fixtures, for example, and carry the look throughout the space with brass cabinet hardware.
Walls can be a blank canvas or a bold statement. If you prefer simplicity or want to contrast with other patterns in the room, keep them clean and light. For a more dynamic look, opt for decorative wallcoverings, wainscoting or vertical shiplap in shades of navy or charcoal.
If space allows, doubling up on appliances is a great way to be more efficient with laundry time. Stack them on top of each other or place them side by side. You can position front-loading machines under a countertop to add additional storage and folding space. If you’re worried about the bulky look, add sliding pocket doors to hide the appliances or choose ones in a color like a matte black, soft gray or even a fun pastel.
Laundry can require a plethora of fundamental extras like detergents, baskets, stain removers, dryer sheets and more. Storage is essential not only to maintain an organized space but also to keep the room feeling tranquil and uncluttered. Repeat the same or similar cabinetry from other areas, then give it a facelift with a fresh, complementary hue. Tall cabinets are ideal for hiding extra bedding or laundry baskets, while deep drawers with organizers keep items like dryer sheets and detergents tucked away. To save space, consider a wall-mounted ironing board or fold-out drying racks.
Lights should be bright enough for practical tasks but still inviting. Recessed lights work well for general brightness, while under-cabinet lights provide focused task lighting. A stylish pendant light or even a small chandelier can create warmth and character.
With the right design, your laundry room can be more than just a workspace. It can become an organized, beautiful part of your home where you’ll enjoy spending time—no matter how many loads of laundry you might tackle.
