Finished laundry room ideas
Basement Laundry Room Ideas (Design Guide)
Here we share a variety of basement laundry room ideas including finished and unfinished designs.
The Laundry Room is usually the place at home we least think about making pretty. But it sure is an important yet commonly neglected part of the home. Because this place is where all the clothes cleaning happens (and sometimes, the storage for cleaning materials, too), it would only be beneficial and practical to keep it clean, organized and in tip top shape.
The ambiance of any space definitely affects the mood of its users. Make your trips to the laundry room feel less dreadful by making the space homier and more appealing. In fact, many studies and research show that clutter distracts the mind and makes it more difficult to focus on tasks.
Other studies also correlates the cleanliness/organization of the home to one’s physical and psychological health. The laundry room might seem to be just a small space in our home, a long-due makeover will only prove to be more beneficial to you.
A trip to the laundry room may seem like a dreary task, but that doesn’t mean your laundry room should also look dreary. Give it a more fun and bright atmosphere by using light colors and a more playful layout. The small laundry room in the picture above adds a touch of slate blue on its walls, energizing the space. The white cabinets and the addition of wood accents and white bricks gives this space a refreshing and dynamic feel.
Table of Contents
This simple laundry set-up focuses on clean, clear spaces, hence the numerous cabinets for storage to keep the clutter away. It uses ceramic tiles for the floors to give the space a warmer feel, and even adds wall decor and a fun brick-like backsplash to give the room a more fun and cozy feel.
Unfinished Basement Laundry Room Ideas
Most laundry rooms are placed in the basement, and typically, unfinished basement laundry rooms have concrete floors that has the tendency to be cold and damp.
While the amount of work seems to be dreadful, consider this as a blank canvas. After all, if it has no existing flooring, it saves you time and effort from replacing existing floors.
The large basement laundry room in the picture above keeps its industrial aesthetic by keeping the walls, floor and ceiling unfinished and adding more industrial pieces such as an industrial style open shelf.
Here are some ideas for upgrading your unfinished basement laundry rooms:
Choose a theme – Select a color theme to keep a cohesive design.
Add lighting – Lighting definitely makes a huge difference in any space, and the laundry room is no exception. Basements typically have no windows for natural light, so the artificial lighting will definitely help make your laundry room more conducive for its function.
Paint – Paint the walls, the ceiling or the rafters. We recommend using light colors to brighten up the space.
Add storage – If your current cabinets/storage is not enough, considering adding more to keep clutter away.
Choose cabinetry that offers plenty of storage potential for cleaning products and accessories.
Add countertops – Choose a durable type of material such as granite, or quartz countertops.
Add flooring – Depending on your needs and the current state of the flooring of your laundry room, consider adding/replacing with durable materials suitable for wet areas.
Add wall accessories – These are used for hanging clothing and storing items like the ironing board.
If you have very little space, you can consider putting a freestanding wash basin instead of a built-in one to save space. This also allows you to easily re-layout your space should you need readjustments.
If you don’t have enough budget for cabinets and other architectural changes, remember to go by the principle of less is more.
If experimenting is not your style, you can always adapt the existing design style of your home or kitchen into your laundry room.
Remember to allot sufficient storage so that you have space to move around in the laundry room.
Finished Basement Laundry Room Ideas
For finished laundry rooms, it could either mean less work to do or more, depending on its current state. The important things you need to check for, before making an changes are the following:
Check your pipes and drainage – Spills and clogged drains can only cause damage to your laundry room. Make sure this is addressed before you renovate
Check the existing flooring – If your current flooring is laminate, carpet tiles or hardwood, consider changing them as those materials are the worst to use for damp/wet areas like the laundry
Check the storage – Do you have enough space? How much more do you need?
Checking on those three items will help you identify the key areas needing improvement in your current space.
This contemporary style laundry room features dark cabinetry with a glass backsplash tile and a white quartz counter.
You can enhance the look of your basement and make it more chic by using a darker color scheme. This basement laundry looks elegant because of its clean silhouettes and dark wood color scheme.
Basement Laundry Room Lighting Ideas
As the Laundry Room is a very functional/utilitarian space, it’s very important to have excellent ambient lighting, and even better if you have task lighting. Mood lights or special effect lights can also be installed, but not really practical or necessary depending on what you want to achieve.
Here are some recommended lighting options:
Under-cabinet lighting – this a really useful feature in any laundry room. If you have your cabinets installed already, consider getting a plug-in type under cabinet lights. Just make sure there’s an outlet accessible from where you want it installed. But if you do have some DIY skills, you’re hiring a professional or are just installing new overhead cabinets, do consider adding built-in LED lamps for a cleaner look
LED panel lights – instead of using a bulb, an LED panel will install just as easily and produce stronger light.
You can choose between different shapes and sizes, between flush mount and recessed mount options, depending on the installation location.
Pendant lamps – if you don’t have a drop ceiling in your basement laundry, pendant lamps are a great option that’s easy to install.
Basement Laundry Room Organization
The key to organization is knowing/accounting for all the items you have in a space in order to determine its most ideal storage location. Follow this easy guide to help you organize your laundry room:
- List all the items & products that is currently stored in your laundry room.
- Categorize the items you have in the inventory to determine which items will be stored together. Example: All opened detergents and fabric softeners should be grouped together. Laundry bags, laundry balls and other laundry paraphernalia should also be grouped together and should be easily accessible. Stock items and strong cleaning agents should be kept further away, where children can’t reach.
- Determine if you have enough storage space for your inventory. If yes, start your storage planning before implementation.
Baskets and crates are a low-cost and practical way to keep your laundry room clean and organized. This simple laundry area uses plastic baskets in lieu of closed storage for easier access and visibility.
A great alternative to plastic baskets and crate boxes would be collapsible fabric storage. This example shows fabric storage boxes placed on store-bought metal rack to keep things organized in the laundry. This option is easy to execute, and very affordable, too!
Basement Laundry Room Flooring
When choosing flooring for your laundry room, keep in mind that this area is moist and is susceptible to water leakage, so select materials that can be used for wet areas.
Generally, try to avoid the following: Laminates, solid wood, engineered wood and carpet.
The best materials to use are vinyl, ceramic tiles and natural stone. If you want a soft cushion for your feet, you can simply add a small area rug with rubber padding to keep it slip-proof.
This laundry room uses a wood look porcelain tile flooring which is durable and highly scratch resistant. The dark wood stain used in the cabinets for this laundry room gives it a very classy and elegant appeal, despite its utilitarian function.
The addition of a large island counter for folding, sorting or ironing clothes is a great idea if you have enough space for it. It could also serve as a combination laundry and craft room.
Source – In the Deets
Going for the elegant yet modern Mediterranean look, this basement laundry area features hand-painted cement tiles for flooring, all white paneled cabinets with brass handles and clean white subways tiles for the wall. The addition of wicker and wood accessories adds a touch of warmth of the space while maintaining its trendy appeal.
The different textures and patterns found on the flooring and the walls of this basement laundry room gives it a very dynamic appeal. The black chevron pattern ceramic tiles on the floor perfectly complements the white shiplap walls. Completing the while look are the steel blue cabinets with wood block countertops to finish.
Here are some awesome basement laundry room ideas that may inspire you in designing or DIY-ing your laundry!
This is another great example of a dark color scheme in a laundry room. To match the black washers, the wooden cabinets were also stained in black and the small wash area on the corner also features black granite countertops and a black-stained base.
Pair your earth tone stones with dark green cabinets to create that elegant yet young and chic vibes. The amount of storage available helps keep the space clean and clutter-free, allowing you more space for movement.
A mixture of different types of storage spaces is great for people who do more tasks in the laundry room than just plain ‘ol laundry. The size of this laundry room gives it enough space for additional storage and a proper ironing area. It even has part of the space dedicated to being a mudroom with wall brackets for hanging clothes after laundry or ironing!
A large French glass door going towards the laundry room is a nice way to make it feel a little less stuffy. This laundry room goes for a classic design of wood and white marble that matches perfectly with the rest of the architectural details of the home.
Basement Bathroom and Laundry Room Ideas
This small laundry area sits on top of hardwood flooring, so keep your wooden floors safe, it is best practice to constantly check your pipes for any sort of leaks, to lessen the potential of water damage.
The multiple storage options in this design includes open shelves with fabric trays/organizers and overhead cabinets and shelves.
This is also another great idea for laundry rooms, if you currently don’t have space for it, maybe an extra/guest bathroom will have enough room for your equipment! Just look at how this example still has a lot of space left even after bringing the machines with her.
This very small corner of the bathroom was converted into a laundry nook. So that it doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb, white machines were used to match the current look of the rest of the bathroom.
Basement Laundry Room Makeover Ideas
Source – Becky Rose
Go for a light and elegant look with this cute combination of mint green and whites for your basement laundry room! The fresh mint color used on the cabinets makes it look cleaner and fresher than fresh laundry! The cool color has a soothing effect that might just leave you less stressed even after doing house work!
Slide Out Drying Rack
Source – Trehus
This gorgeous modern laundry room integrates not only the washing machine and dryer into the built-ins design, but also integrates a slide-out drying rack for a more efficient household work session.
Laundry with Pull-Out Storage Shelf
Source – Schuler
For most of us, the cabinets in the laundry room area really used for storage of not only laundry soap and fabric softeners, but also a storage for cleaning tools and cleaning agents. The cabinets used in this basement laundry understands such function, and thus planned the cabinets’ interiors to accommodate how the space is being used. The pull-out storage shelf is a neat and safe way to keep cleaning agents away from children, while the tall cabinet allows enough space for storage of mops and vacuum cleaners.
Pull-Out Shelving In-between Washer & Dryer
Source – Closet Factory Chicago
A pull-out shelf was conveniently placed in between the washer and the dryer, so that all laundry detergents and miscellaneous items will be much easier to access.
Laundry with Stylish Backsplash
Source – Clean Design
This glamorous looking laundry nook definitely maximizes all the little space it occupies.
The metal backsplash tiles’ reflective surface makes the space feel a little bigger than it really is. A slab of white countertop was placed above the washer/dryer, and the upper space was used as cabinets and hanging area for clothes, creating a multi-functional storage space above.
Washbasin for a Farmhouse Look
Source – Copper Homes
Go farmhouse retro with the addition of a movable tin wash basin in your laundry room. Use this small space to wash delicate clothes, underwear, or maybe even wash your small pet dog?
Laundry in Wall Niche
Source – Seattle Staged to Sell
The marigold-painted walls adds a different flavor to the black and white theme of the cabinetry used in this laundry room. The washing machine and dryer was placed on a recessed ledge on the wall, and is slightly raised off the floor, making the machine doors a bit more accessible and easy on the back, especially for tall people.
Laundry Room with Pull Out Ironing Board
Source – Reality Restoration
Modern modular cabinets really come in handy, especially when you’re really short on space and storage. This laundry room features a pull-out ironing board, concealed in a drawer. When not in use, it stows away very easily and does not unnecessarily occupy space in your laundry room. There’s also a colorful arabesque tile backsplash to add contrast to the white cabinetry.
Laundry Room with Island
Black slate tiles enhances the simple elegance of this small laundry room. The white cabinets and walls with white subway tiles look extra bright because of the dark flooring and doors. The small island is a great addition to separate the space, as well as serve as a functional surface which you can also use for your laundry needs.
Sliding Barn Door
If you don’t have a space for a whole laundry room, this laundry nook is a great idea.
The nook has just enough space for vertically-stacked washers and dryer and can be concealed using a sliding barn door.
Double Doors
If your stile is more modern, this is a great alternative to the barn door laundry nook. It uses white double doors with frosted glass for a very contemporary feel.
Salvaged Wood
Gorgeous salvaged wood was used for the countertop and shelves in this simple basement laundry room. Steel blue cabinets definitely stands out against the white brick walls, and the addition of indoor plants makes the space feel more lively.
Attached Mudroom
A small mudroom design with seating area is also a great idea for small laundry rooms. That way you can have a comfortable place to take on and off shoes and coats when you enter the home.
Light Color Theme
Feeling stuffy as your laundry room has no windows, try to keep your color scheme light and bright to counter the dark ambiance of the space.
This example shows all white cabinetry paired with sage green painted walls.
Ceiling Paneling
Source – Flickr
A bright white ceiling paneling can help lighten up a dark basement laundry and give it new life. Ceiling panels are a lightweight and inexpensive option for a DIY laundry remodel.
Laundry in the Kitchen
If you can’t have a dedicated laundry room, you can also place your laundry in the kitchen, as it already has a plumbing system. This is quite common in small apartments and the laundry machines are usually placed under the counters near the sink.
Small Basement Laundry Room Ideas
No space? No problem. Even tight, closet-like spaces can be turned into an efficient laundry room with proper planning. This compact space has unique hand-painted cement tiles on the floors, paired with vertical shiplap walls to give an illusion of added height to the space.
The top of the washing machines were fixed with a wooden top which can be useful for organizing laundry or ironing clothes. The remaining space above it was rightly used for additional storage space.
If you have a really tight laundry room space like this, stacking your washer and dryer vertically will definitely help you save space. Keep the color scheme light so the space looks large. The bisque cabinets and walls adds just the perfect touch of warmth in this small space.
This laundry room was converted from an old closet so the cabinets were just retained to be put to good use.
Convert your old closet into a small laundry room! This small closet has a wooden ledge/stand where the machines were placed so that they area more accessible. Additionaly, the space below was used for storage (baskets) and the overhead was fixed with a metal shelf that also allows storage of different items.
This small basement laundry not only thought about the space for the machines and the storage, but it also adds a small nook for their dog and a wet area where you can wash your do or even do hand-washing for sensitive clothes. See more finished basement ideas on our gallery page.
22 laundry room decor and design ideas |
Homes & Gardens is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s why you can trust us.
(Image credit: Alex James / Sarah Shields / Kristen Nix)
By Emily Shaw
published
Laundry room ideas was once a fairly limited design category. You stored the washer and dryer in a hall closet, in the basement, or if you were lucky, in a dedicated utility room off the kitchen somewhere. But these days, high-style, high-function laundry rooms are a must-have, and the design options have expanded to meet demand.
Not only do today's laundry rooms provide a dedicated space for efficient laundering, but they also provide a unique set of design requirements that offer plenty of opportunity for creativity.
In this space, practicalities still take precedence, so when it comes to designing a laundry room, thinking like the most organized version of yourself is always a great place to start. A combination of space-enhancing storage solutions and carefully considering how you will move within the space (particularly when it’s full of laundry, as opposed to when everything is neatly folded and tidied into cupboards) are key to creating a space that’s efficient and ergonomic.
Once you’ve made choices based on the functionality of a space, you can start to think about aesthetics, and work out how organizing your laundry room can make the space not just pleasing to look at but to use too.
Laundry room ideas
Whether you’re overhauling an existing laundry room and looking at laundry room makeovers for inspiration, are gaining a laundry area by planning a home addition, or want to move the laundry upstairs where it's more convenient, our laundry room decor ideas and designs are sure to provide plenty of inspiration.
1. Incorporate on-trend tones into your laundry room ideas
(Image credit: Alex James)
If there are kitchen trends that you love, but are not prepared to commit to in such a large space, consider your laundry room the perfect test-canvas. After all, given its inevitably smaller dimensions, you will find yourself spending significantly less money making changes as trends come and go.
Here, London design duo Stephenson Wright finished cabinetry in Farrow & Ball ’s French Gray to create country charm.
2. Add wallpaper to put the fun in function
(Image credit: Aimee Mazzenga)
Let's face it: laundry is a chore, which is even more of a reason to make your utility room ideas as beautiful as possible.
Chicago-based designer Kristin Challacombe brought in a bold floral wallpaper to add sophisticated style to a workhorse space. 'With four young kids living in this home, there’s always laundry to do, so I wanted to make the space beautiful," Challacombe says.
"The wallpaper is Clarke & Clarke , and we pulled out the rich, blue color of the palm trees for the custom cabinetry.'
A black-and-white mosaic tile on the floor adds contrast, creating a room that's as stylish as it is sensible.
3. Add an island for easy folding
(Image credit: Whittney Parkinson / Sarah Shields)
If you have the space for it, consider adding a small kitchen island or kitchen cart to your laundry room like designer Whittney Parkinson did, above. It creates a smart spot for folding towels or rolling towels, to help fold fitted sheets and clothes.
Having an island, or at least ample counter space, also gives you a place to pretreat clothes or to lay delicates flat to dry, as well as proving convenient for tasks such as washing stuffed animals or cleaning bath toys. For a bonus, choose an island with storage underneath to house laundry baskets or cleaning supplies.
4. Let your laundry room double up as a mudroom
(Image credit: Sims Hilditch)
If you don’t have space to justify a room dedicated solely to laundry, consider other ways of ensuring your space is functional, and think about combining your laundry with mudroom ideas.
Here, a handy mudroom storage solution allows this stylish country laundry room to double up as a space for stashing outdoor shoes.
Louise Wicksteed, design director at Sims Hilditch advises: 'In terms of decor, we recommend a stone flooring that will be easily cleaned should any spillages or leaks occur.’
5. Choose an all-white scheme to make a small space look and feel bigger
(Image credit: Marloe Interiors)
A white laundry room scheme is a lovely option for a space that feels fresh, clean and organized. Plus, if you are looking for small laundry room ideas, a bright white will make your space feel larger and lighter with minimal effort. Complement a white scheme with good lighting and checking laundry symbols on your items will never be difficult to do.
Mandy Oestreich from Marloe Interiors offers the following advice: ‘For our Cotswold country home clients, we opted for a balanced mix of old and new to redesign their laundry room.
'Black bronze knobs contrast beautifully against the white painted shaker style cabinets, whilst the light-colored quartz worktop completes the look – creating a classic and timeless space.
’
6. Double your efficiency with tandem washer-dryers
(Image credit: Scott Davis)
Utah-based designers The Fox Group realized every large family's dream with this laundry room idea: double washer-dryers. The stacking configuration means that the extra capacity doesn't take up extra floor space, so you can borrow this idea even if you don't have an oversized laundry room.
Think about the capacity of washing machines and dryers if you’re buying new models. If you’re undertaking tasks such as washing a down comforter, tumble drying a duvet, or washing a weighted blanket, this is crucial and without a machine of sufficient size, you won’t be able to do these jobs in a home appliance.
Other design ideas we love about this space include the checkerboard floor, the oversized farmhouse utility sink, and enclosed cabinetry, and the built-in laundry room shelving idea that makes cleaning up easier.
7. Flood your laundry room with light
(Image credit: Lifestyle Floors)
If you’re incorporating a laundry room into your home as part of an addition or extension, consider designing a space that backs straight onto your outside space.
Not only is this beautiful space flooded with natural light, making it a spot even those who loathe laundry might enjoy spending time, it is also extremely practical. Rather than relying on a tumble dryer, it provides easy access to the garden where you can allow laundry to air dry.
Achieve a similar finish with flooring from Lifestyle Floors . Pictured above is their Dawn Herringbone finish.
8. Choose complementary shades for connecting spaces
(Image credit: Berry Alloc)
If you are designing a laundry room that connects directly to a kitchen, or dining area, consider opting for shades that complement your kitchen color scheme to achieve a cohesive finish.
Here, a laundry room with a cream finish works perfectly in conjunction with an on-trend, deep, dark and atmospheric kitchen scheme. These complementary shades ensure cohesion within the space, without looking too matchy.
Berry Alloc has a similar wood floor finish.
9. Invest in a traditional drying rack
(Image credit: Martin Moore/Darren Chung)
Drying racks, also called airers, are super-practical when the tumble dryer temperature guide forbids even use of the delicate setting on a dryer.
But they are wonderful for adding a touch of rustic charm to your laundry room ideas, too.
Use them for towels and bedlinens as well as to dry a comforter – and hang decorative items too, for laundry room decor ideas that will make the scheme feel more lived in.
This super stylish laundry room scheme was designed by Martin Moore .
10. Choose custom carpentry for a high-end finish
(Image credit: Carpetright )
Working with a carpenter is key to achieving a bespoke finish that not only suits your specific requirements, but also allows you to incorporate customized laundry room storage ideas, to make the most of the space you have available.
Look to fit tall laundry closet ideas to hang items such as clothes that are airing or to store an ironing board; and smaller laundry room cabinet ideas for keeping washing powders and cleaning kit out of sight. This clever corner seat adds a cozy cottage feel to this laundry room while allowing it to double up as a functional mudroom.
Plus, each of the deep benches can be used for lift-up storage.
11. Maximize the vertical space available
(Image credit: Alex James)
Another of our favorite design tips when it comes to small laundry room ideas is to maximize vertical space, like designers Stephenson Wright did in their client's home, above.
Here, wall to ceiling cabinets ensure plenty of storage potential for detergents and ready for using bleach in laundry, as well as a convenient spot for stashing laundry baskets.
The soothing shade of gray gives this functional spot a relaxing feel.
12. Consider a dark shade for a stylish laundry room
(Image credit: Farrow & Ball )
This stunning laundry room proves that the moody interiors trend works just as well in small spaces as it does in large, lust-worthy black and white kitchens.
Opting for a dark feature wall that comprises paintwork, cabinetry and paneling adds plenty of character while ensuring the small space does not feel overwhelmed.
You can recreate the look with the shade Railings from Farrow & Ball .
13. Put your laundry on a pedestal
(Image credit: Sarah Shields)
A pedestal washer and dryer is a convenience you won't want to live without once you try it. It essentially eliminates the need to bend over when you're changing the laundry or cleaning a washing machine, making the whole process easier.
While most top washer-dryer brands sell pedestals for their machines, the look isn't necessarily elevated. Instead, try a custom-built pedestal that matches your laundry room cabinets, like designer Whittney Parkinson created for a lucky client.
14. Consider adding a fun feature to your laundry room
(Image credit: Kristen Nix Interiors)
If you are tempted by patterned kitchen flooring or a bold paint palette but cannot commit to something a little more out there in any other room of the house, consider giving it a go in your laundry room ideas.
Kristen Nix, director of Kristen Nix Interiors , provides the following insight: ‘Designing a laundry room is an opportunity to play with color and have fun with tiles.
'We wanted this laundry room to be fun – so we ran the tile on the diagonal and pulled in the blue in the cabinet paint. We papered the ceiling and walls, which helped make the space feel finished and special.’
15. Keep it simple with a stylish gray scheme
(Image credit: Neptune)
If bold shades, prints, and patterns are not for you, a trusty shade of gray is always a safe bet. Plus, this classic tone is guaranteed to stand the test of time.
Here, gray paint adds a modern and sophisticated feel to the space, while white shaker style cabinetry and wicker storage baskets ensure this laundry room still has plenty of storage potential.
16. Make your space work for you
(Image credit: Brent Darby)
Ultimately, what is most important when designing a laundry room is ensuring that the space works for you.
Whether that means retractable washing lines, built-in ironing boards, drawers for appliance instructions and a guide to laundry symbols, or cozy corners designed for dogs, as above, the options are endless.
17. Zone your space to maximize efficiency
(Image credit: DeVol Kitchens)
If you are lucky enough to be blessed with a laundry room that can be zoned, consider it an option that maximizes efficiency.
Zoning is the perfect way to layout a laundry room. We are picturing one area equipped with appliances which is designed for washing and drying laundry, and another set up for folding and ironing clothes to perfection.
18. Make a feature of your laundry room cabinetry
(Image credit: Future / Darren Chung)
Laundry room shelving and cabinetry doesn’t have to be all about practicality. In fact, it’s an ideal way to bring in decorative touches that help make the space charming as well as useful. Stick to displaying a selection of smaller objects and pictures to give the room a more airy feel.
The space behind the sink is ideal – particularly if vases are part of the mix so they’re near the faucet. In this location, bespoke build-in shelving is a sensible option to keep the contents securely in place above the sink.
The lovely marble laundry room countertop idea adds a sense of sophistication to the playful cabinetry.
19. Consider the layout of your laundry room
(Image credit: Jon Day)
When trying to make the most of limited space in which you’re undertaking tasks such as washing bed sheets and washing woollen blankets take time to consider the natural flow through rooms, recommends Victoria Wormsley of French-Brooks Interiors .
‘Think about how people are going to pass through the space and ask if you really need each and every door (but be aware that some will need to be retained for fire regulations, particularly when it comes to kitchens and utility areas). Where possible, remove doors and architraves to improve the flow.’
20. Opt for a deep sink
(Image credit: Future)
A deep butler sink is practical for tasks such as washing whites that can’t go into the machine and other handwashing tasks; if possible, place it beneath a window so you can enjoy your garden while standing at it.
Keep the sink close to the washing machine, too, as it will make plumbing – and transferring laundry – easier. And install a run of countertops on either side if you have the space. A pretty blind will add a touch of color and softness as a finishing touch.
21. Pay attention to flooring
(Image credit: Mel Yates)
A low-maintenance, durable floor is a key feature in a laundry room. Natural stone retains heat in the winter and is cool in summer. Wood-effect ceramic floors give the beauty of timber but are more practical and hard-wearing. As to whether you continue the bathroom floor into the utility, this is dependent on whether you are looking to unify the space or create a statement room in its own right. Patterned floors can delineate the space and provide wow factor when glimpsed through a glass or open door.
22. Be bold with color
(Image credit: Martin Moore Design / Darren Chung)
Laundry and utility rooms are really receptive to bold decorating styles.
Strong colors and patterns can work well in a smaller space – perhaps matching the accent color used within the main kitchen. Also consider echoing the kitchen cabinet design but in a different finish to achieve good continuity and flow between spaces, particularly if there is open or glazed access between the two. Speaking of glazing, the best laundry rooms are naturally lit – it improves the ambience when spending time within the room and is valuable when performing tasks such as ironing. Always aim to include a window or skylight if you’re planning a laundry room in a new extension.
What are the best laundry room cabinet ideas?
Cabinets are a natural part of a thoughtful laundry room design. They allow for all-important laundry room storage, while also closing the door on visible clutter.
Laundry room cabinet ideas range from simple to complex, and affordable to high end. Wherever you fall on the spectrum, here are a few ideas we love, from easy to more involved.
Consider laundry room shelving
Laundry room shelving provides an easy alternative to cabinetry, since it's quick to install and readily available. While shelves don't hide away clutter the same way cabinets do, you can still create an orderly space with items like matching storage baskets, pretty glass jars, and a label maker.
Add a kitchen cabinet above a washer dryer
If you need laundry room cabinetry but aren't planning a full renovation any time soon, a simple off-the-shelf kitchen wall cabinet is a more than adequate stand in. Most big box home improvement stores offer unfinished wood cabinets, so you can give yours a custom look with a few coats of paint and fun hardware. Have the cabinet mounted above the washer dryer.
Go custom
If you're investing in a complete laundry room overhaul, custom cabinetry is the way to go. With custom, you'll get cabinets that are built to your needs and the size and function of your room.
Plus, you'll be able to order them in virtually any color you choose, so you can tie in to a fun wallpaper, your kitchen cabinets, or another room in your home. Find a cabinet maker that specializes in laundry room design, or work with an interior designer to ensure you maximize the function of the cabinets. Extras like drying racks, laundry basket storage, and pedestal stands can make a world of difference in how well your laundry room serves you and your family.
Emily first (temporarily) joined the Real Homes team while interning on her summer break from university. After graduating, she worked on several publications before joining Real Homes as Staff Writer full time in mid-2018. She left the brand in 2020 to join the police force but continues to write for Homes & Gardens about interiors.
With contributions from
- Kaitlin MaddenExecutive Editor, Homes & Gardens
Laundries - 55 best photo ideas for designing a laundry room in an apartment and a house facades, beige apron, beige walls, with a tumble dryer on a washing machine and a beige countertop
Photoshoot Apartment on the Angara
Badyaeva Maria
For the family that lives in this apartment, thanks to the large area, it was possible to create a beautiful space in every corner.
Fresh design idea: contemporary style laundry room with tumble dryer on top of washer - great interior photo
Townhouse by the Bay
Maxim Maximov
Pictured: medium sized rustic single straight laundry with flat fronts, beige facades, acrylic stone top, beige walls, porcelain stoneware floors, with washer and dryer nearby, gray floor and black top
Residential complex "Khoroshevsky"
BALCON
Design idea: a modern laundry room with a tumble dryer on the washing machine
Unicum. design: loft-style laundry room - great interior photo
Greenlea
Visbeen Architects
Fresh design idea: medium-sized country-style freestanding, parallel laundry room with recessed panel facades, white facades, quartz countertops, white walls , slate floor, with washer and dryer next to it, blue floor and white worktop - great photo of the interior
Living Spaces
Clean Design
Donna Dotan Photography Inc.
Inspiration for home comfort: neoclassical (modern classic) straight pantry with white fronts, white walls, washer and dryer next to it and white countertop
Wellhouse LCD
Special-style
Fresh design idea: separate , contemporary style corner laundry room with sink, flat cabinets, beige cabinets, tumble dryer on top of washer, brown floor and white worktop - great interior photo
dogs dream
Artistic Renovations of Ohio LLC
this dog wash is a great place to clean up your pets and give them the spa treatment they deserve. There is even an area to relax for your pet under the counter in the padded cabinet.
Industrial Chic
Amy Storm & Company
We basically squeezed this into a closet, but wow does it deliver! The roll out shelf can expand for folding and ironing and push back in when it's not needed.
The wood shelves offer great linen storage and the exposed brick is a great reminder of all the hard work that has been done in this home! Joe Kwon
In Keeping With Tradition
Meadowlark Design+Build
This "perfect-sized" laundry room is just off the mudroom and can be closed off from the rest of the house. The large window makes the space feel large and open. A custom designed wall of shelving and specialty cabinets accommodates everything necessary for day-to-day laundry needs. This custom home was designed and built by Meadowlark Design+Build in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Photography by Joshua Caldwell.
Fresh Farmhouse
Becky Rose Design
Design idea for a medium-sized straight-line laundry room in a classic style with an inset sink, turquoise cabinets, quartz countertops, dark parquet floors, with washer and dryer next to it, brown floors, white top, recessed panel fronts and beige walls
Boulder Remodel Home: Approachable Elegance
Factor Design Build
The laundry area features a fun ceramic tile design with open shelving and storage above the machine space.
Photo of a small detached, country-style corner laundry room with a sink sink, flat cabinets, blue cabinets, quartzite countertops, black splashback, cement tile splashback, gray walls, slate flooring, side by side washer and dryer, gray floor and white worktop with
Glenelg
Urban Habitats
Colindale Design / CR3 Studio
A fresh design idea: a small detached, nautical-style corner laundry room with an overhead sink, white cabinets, wood countertops, white walls, ceramic tile floors , with a washer and dryer next to it, brown countertops, flat fronts and gray floors - a great photo of the interior
Laundries in a modern style - 55 best photo ideas for designing a laundry room in an apartment and a house , flat facades, beige facades, beige backsplash, beige walls, with a dryer on a washing machine and a beige countertop
Photoshoot Apartment on Angara
Badyaeva Maria
For the family that lives in this apartment, thanks to the large area, it was possible to create a beautiful space in every corner.
Fresh design idea: modern laundry room with tumble dryer - great interior photo
Khoroshevsky residential complex
BALCON
Design idea: modern style laundry room with tumble dryer
LCD Wellhouse
Special-style
A fresh design idea for a contemporary style detached, corner laundry room with sink sink, flat cabinets, beige cabinets, tumble dryer, brown floor and white worktop - great interior photo
City Condo in the Sky
HSH Interiors
Inspiration for home comfort: modern small straight pantry with white fronts, white walls, tumble dryer, beige floors, white countertops, flat fronts and light parquet floors
Atherton, CA Contemporary Elegance
K.G.Bell Construction
No space for a full laundry room? No problem! Hidden by closet doors, this fully functional laundry area is sleek and modern.
Home-style inspiration: modern style small straight pantry with tumble dryer, sink sink, flat cabinets, beige fronts and beige walls
Laundry Room
Maple Leaf Custom Homes
Spero Photography
Pictured is a contemporary style freestanding direct laundry with flat fronts, white fronts, quartz countertops, white walls, ceramic tile flooring, side by side washer and dryer and sink sink
CARLES DRIVE
Aspen Interiors
Glen Doone Photography
Photo of a small modern style freestanding parallel laundry room with a semi-recessed sink (with front edge), white cabinets, granite countertops, beige walls, washer and dryer beside it, beige floors, floors made of ceramic tiles and facades in the style of shaker
Fox Point Residence
FoxLin Architects
Doug Edmunds
Stylish design: large direct versatile modern style room with flat fronts, white fronts, quartzite countertops, gray walls, laminate flooring, with washer and dryer next to it, white floors and gray countertops - the latest trend
Woodland Hills
Levi Design Build
Pictured: medium sized modern style straight versatile room with inset sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, agglomerated quartz countertops, white walls , limestone floor and with washer and dryer side by side
Laundry Room
Meyer Design
Spacious Laundry room with abundant storage, drop-down hanging bars, and built-in washer & dryer.
Photos: Reel Tour Media
Original design example of a large modern style separate laundry room with sink sink, flat cabinets, white cabinets, white walls, side by side washer and dryer, multicolored floors, white countertops and porcelain stoneware flooring
Laundry Room Storage
Inspired Closets Vermont
Are you catching up on laundry? With a bit more time on your hands, it's a task that makes everyone feel organized. And thanks to a convenient custom counter and pull out baskets, folding laundry fresh out of the dryer has never been easier. Schedule your free virtual design consultation on our website and let's get started planning your new laundry room today!
Cantera Cliffs
Ence Homes
This was our 2016 Parade Home and our model home for our Cantera Cliffs Community. This unique home gets better and better as you pass through the private front patio courtyard and into a gorgeous entry.
