Maximizing vertical space is a cornerstone of modern laundry room design, and high shelves offer a brilliant solution for storage and style. Whether your aesthetic leans towards minimalist chic or rustic farmhouse, incorporating high shelves in your laundry room can transform it from a utilitarian space into a well-organized and visually appealing haven. From sleek floating shelves to repurposed vintage ladders, the possibilities are endless. Let’s explore 21 design ideas to inspire your laundry room transformation.
Open Shelving with Woven Baskets
Embrace a touch of rustic charm with open shelving crafted from reclaimed wood, stained in a warm honey hue. Complement the natural wood with woven baskets in varying sizes and textures. These baskets provide stylish storage for laundry essentials, keeping everything organized while adding a touch of bohemian flair. Consider incorporating a few potted plants with trailing greenery to soften the look and introduce a natural element.
Sleek Metal and Glass Shelving
For a modern and minimalist laundry room, opt for sleek metal shelving with tempered glass shelves. This combination creates a clean and airy feel, allowing light to flow freely through the space. Choose a powder-coated metal frame in a matte black or brushed nickel finish for a sophisticated touch. Use clear glass jars and canisters to store detergents and other supplies, creating a visually appealing and organized display. Add under-shelf lighting to enhance the modern aesthetic and provide practical task lighting.
Built-in Shelves with Cabinet Doors
Maximize storage and maintain a clean, uncluttered look with built-in shelves featuring cabinet doors. This design allows you to conceal less aesthetically pleasing items while showcasing decorative elements on open shelves. Consider painting the cabinets a calming shade of sage green and pairing them with brass hardware for a touch of elegance. Incorporate textured wallpaper with a subtle geometric pattern on the back wall of the shelves to add visual interest.
Industrial Pipe Shelving
Embrace the industrial trend with robust shelving constructed from metal pipes and reclaimed wood planks. This style adds a touch of raw and edgy character to the laundry room. Paint the pipes a matte black and leave the wood natural for a contrasting look. Use wire baskets and metal containers to store laundry supplies, further enhancing the industrial aesthetic. Add a vintage-inspired metal sign or artwork to complete the look.
Ladder Shelving
Repurpose an old wooden ladder into a unique and functional shelving unit. Lean the ladder against the wall and use the rungs as shelves for storing folded towels, laundry baskets, and decorative items. Paint the ladder a vibrant color like turquoise or coral to add a pop of personality to the space. This design is particularly well-suited for smaller laundry rooms, as it takes up minimal floor space.
Floating Shelves with Backlit Panels
Create a dramatic and modern focal point with floating shelves featuring backlit panels. The soft, ambient lighting adds a touch of luxury and enhances the functionality of the space. Opt for white or light-colored shelves to maximize the light reflection. Display decorative items and plants on the shelves to create a visually appealing vignette.
Corner Shelving Unit
Utilize often-overlooked corner space with a custom-built corner shelving unit. This design maximizes storage capacity without encroaching on valuable floor space. Paint the shelves a soft gray and add decorative molding for a touch of architectural detail. Use clear storage containers to keep items organized and easily accessible.
Shelf with Hanging Rod
Combine functionality and style with a shelf that incorporates a hanging rod. This provides a convenient space for hanging delicate garments or air-drying clothes. Opt for a natural wood shelf with a black metal rod for a classic and versatile look. Add hooks to the underside of the shelf for additional hanging storage.
Mirrored Backsplash with Glass Shelves
Create a sense of spaciousness in a smaller laundry room with a mirrored backsplash and glass shelves. The mirrors reflect light and visually expand the room. Choose simple, frameless glass shelves for a clean and modern look. Add a few strategically placed decorative items to avoid a cluttered appearance.
Recessed Shelving
Maximize space and create a seamless look with recessed shelving. This design integrates the shelves into the wall, creating a flush and streamlined appearance. Paint the recessed area a contrasting color to highlight the shelves and add visual interest. Use baskets and containers to keep items organized and concealed.
Wire Basket Shelving
For a budget-friendly and versatile option, consider using wire baskets as shelves. Hang the baskets from wall-mounted brackets or a metal grid system. This creates a unique and airy storage solution perfect for smaller items. Label each basket for easy organization.
Pegboard Shelving System
Embrace versatility and customization with a pegboard shelving system. The pegboard allows you to easily adjust the shelf heights and configurations to suit your changing needs. Paint the pegboard a bright color like sunny yellow or vibrant blue to add a cheerful touch to the laundry room. Use hooks and baskets to maximize storage options.
Open Shelving with Sliding Barn Doors
Combine the openness of shelving with the ability to conceal clutter with sliding barn doors. This versatile design allows you to showcase decorative items while hiding less visually appealing laundry essentials. Choose rustic wood barn doors for a farmhouse aesthetic or sleek metal doors for a modern look.
Tiered Shelving Unit
Maximize vertical space with a tiered shelving unit. This design provides ample storage for various items, from laundry detergents to folded towels. Opt for a white or light-colored unit to brighten the space. Add decorative accents and plants to personalize the shelves.
Shelf Above the Washer and Dryer
Utilize the often-unused space above the washer and dryer with a custom-built shelf. This provides a convenient spot for storing laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and other frequently used items. Choose a shelf material that complements the washer and dryer finish.
Under-Shelf Baskets
Maximize storage capacity by adding baskets or containers underneath existing shelves. This utilizes often-overlooked space and provides a convenient way to organize smaller items. Choose baskets that complement the overall design aesthetic of the laundry room.
Pull-Out Shelves
Enhance accessibility and organization with pull-out shelves. These shelves glide out smoothly, making it easy to access items stored in the back. Consider incorporating pull-out shelves in base cabinets or under the counter for optimal storage solutions.
Shelf with Integrated Drying Rack
Combine functionality and space-saving design with a shelf that incorporates a built-in drying rack. This provides a convenient spot for air-drying delicate garments without taking up valuable floor space. Opt for a wall-mounted shelf with a foldable drying rack for maximum versatility.
Shelving with Built-in Ironing Board
Create a dedicated ironing station with a shelf that incorporates a built-in ironing board. This space-saving design keeps the ironing board readily available while concealing it when not in use. Choose a shelf material that is heat-resistant and durable.
