Creating a functional and stylish laundry room in a small space can be a challenge, but with clever design choices, you can transform this often-overlooked area into a practical and aesthetically pleasing part of your home. Whether you prefer a minimalist approach or a bold statement, incorporating the latest design trends in color, style, and functionality will help you maximize space and efficiency. From utilizing vertical space to incorporating hidden storage solutions, let’s explore 21 design ideas to inspire your small laundry room makeover.
Stackable Washer and Dryer with Open Shelving
Maximize space by opting for a stackable washer and dryer set. This frees up valuable floor space for other essentials. Above the units, install open shelving for storing laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and other supplies. Consider using sleek, white shelving against a soft grey wall for a minimalist Scandinavian feel. Wire baskets or woven containers can add texture and warmth while keeping items organized. This combination of functionality and airy aesthetics is a popular trend in both the US and EU.
Wall-Mounted Drying Rack
A wall-mounted drying rack is a space-saving alternative to traditional floor-standing racks. Choose a foldable model that can be tucked away when not in use. This is particularly beneficial in small spaces where floor area is limited. Paint the wall a vibrant teal to contrast with a natural wood drying rack for a pop of color that reflects current European design trends. Add small potted plants for a touch of biophilic design, further enhancing the space.
Hidden Ironing Board
Integrate a built-in ironing board that can be discreetly folded away into a cabinet or wall recess. This eliminates the need for a separate ironing board and keeps the space clutter-free. Combine this with a neutral color palette, such as beige walls and white cabinetry, to create a sense of calm and order. Adding brass hardware can introduce a touch of luxury and warmth, a trend seen in contemporary American design.
Pull-Out Laundry Hampers
Install pull-out laundry hampers beneath the countertop or within cabinets for a concealed and organized laundry system. Opt for hampers with multiple compartments for separating whites, colors, and delicates. Using a dark navy blue for the cabinetry with brushed nickel hardware offers a sophisticated and modern aesthetic popular in both US and EU design.
Vertical Storage with Pegboards
Maximize vertical space with pegboards. They provide a versatile and customizable storage solution for hanging laundry essentials, cleaning supplies, and even small tools. Paint the pegboard a cheerful yellow against a white wall for a bright and energetic atmosphere, reflecting a current trend in playful interior design.
Under-Sink Storage
Utilize the space beneath the sink by installing shelves or drawers for storing cleaning products and extra laundry supplies. Consider using clear storage containers to keep items organized and easily visible. Pair white cabinets with a light grey countertop and chrome fixtures for a clean and contemporary aesthetic popular in Scandinavian design.
Folding Countertop
Incorporate a folding countertop that can be extended when needed and folded away when not in use. This provides a dedicated space for folding clothes without permanently occupying valuable floor space. A warm wood tone for the countertop against a cool grey wall creates a balanced and inviting space, reflecting a popular trend in rustic modern design.
Sliding Barn Door
Replace a traditional swing door with a sliding barn door to save space and add a touch of rustic charm. Opt for a reclaimed wood door for a unique and sustainable option. Pair this with white shiplap walls for a farmhouse aesthetic that remains a popular trend in American interior design.
Pocket Door Entry
If a barn door isn’t feasible, consider a pocket door that slides into the wall, completely disappearing when open. This maximizes floor space and provides a clean, uncluttered look. Painting the wall a deep emerald green adds a touch of drama and sophistication, aligning with current European design trends.
Mirrored Walls
Strategically placed mirrors can create the illusion of a larger space. Consider installing a large mirror on one wall or using mirrored cabinet doors to visually expand the room. Combining this with a monochromatic grey color scheme creates a sleek and modern aesthetic.
Glass Backsplash
A glass backsplash adds a sleek and modern touch to the laundry room while being easy to clean. Opt for a clear or frosted glass backsplash to bounce light around the room, making it appear brighter and more spacious. A backsplash with a subtle geometric pattern can add visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Floating Shelves
Install floating shelves above the washer and dryer or along an empty wall to maximize storage space. These shelves create a sense of openness while providing ample storage for detergents, towels, and decorative items. Use open shelving with a mix of closed cabinets painted a soft sage green for a calming and organized look, reflecting current biophilic design trends.
Narrow Rolling Cart
A narrow rolling cart can be easily moved around the laundry room as needed and tucked away in a corner when not in use. Utilize it for storing laundry supplies or as an extra surface for folding clothes. Choose a cart with metal and wood elements for an industrial-chic look that is trending in both US and EU design.
Ceiling-Mounted Clothes Rack
Hang a ceiling-mounted clothes rack for drying delicate items or airing out clothes. This maximizes vertical space and adds a unique design element. This is especially useful in smaller spaces where floor drying racks are not feasible. Consider a black metal rack against a white ceiling for a bold contrast.
Built-in Laundry Basket Dresser
Maximize storage and organization by incorporating a built-in dresser with designated laundry baskets. This allows for pre-sorting clothes and keeps the laundry room tidy. Opt for a light wood dresser with white baskets for a clean and Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic.
Wallpaper with Vertical Stripes
Use wallpaper with vertical stripes to create the illusion of higher ceilings and a more spacious room. Choose a subtle stripe pattern in calming colors like light blue or grey to avoid overwhelming the small space. This classic design technique remains popular in both US and EU interiors.
Bright and Bold Accent Wall
Paint one wall a bold color, such as fuchsia or sunny yellow, to create a focal point and add personality to the laundry room. This can distract from the small size of the room and inject a sense of fun and energy. This trend is popular in contemporary interior design, adding a vibrant touch to otherwise functional spaces.
Maximize Natural Light
If your laundry room has a window, maximize natural light by using sheer curtains or blinds. Natural light makes the space feel larger and more inviting. Keeping the walls and trim white further enhances the brightness of the room, a classic design technique that remains popular globally.
Use Light Color Palettes
Opt for light and neutral colors for the walls, cabinets, and flooring to create a sense of spaciousness. Whites, creams, and light greys are excellent choices for making a small room feel larger. This is a timeless design principle that works well in any style of home.
