Designing a small, narrow laundry room can be a challenge, but with a little creativity, you can transform this often-overlooked space into a functional and stylish area. Whether you prefer a minimalist aesthetic or a bold statement, there are countless design solutions to maximize space and efficiency in your laundry room. This article presents 28 design ideas to inspire your small narrow laundry room makeover, incorporating the latest color trends, design styles and space-saving solutions popular in both the US and EU.
Vertical Stripes for Visual Expansion
In a narrow laundry room, creating an illusion of width is key. Vertical stripes, whether painted on the walls or incorporated through wallpaper or tiled backsplash, can visually stretch the space. Opt for soft, cool colors like light blues or greys for a calming effect. Pair these with crisp white cabinetry and shelving to enhance the sense of airiness. A current trend in both the US and EU is incorporating natural textures like wood or stone alongside the stripes to add warmth and depth. Consider a light oak countertop or open shelving with woven baskets for storage.
Stackable Washer and Dryer with Built-In Shelving
Maximize vertical space by opting for a stackable washer and dryer unit. This frees up valuable floor space and allows for the incorporation of built-in shelving above or beside the appliances. Utilize this space for storing laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and other essentials. A popular trend in European laundry room design is to conceal these appliances behind sliding doors, creating a sleek and seamless look. Consider painting the doors in a bold color like deep teal or emerald green, a popular color choice in the EU currently, to make a statement. In the US, open shelving with decorative storage containers is trending, allowing for both functionality and visual appeal.
Hidden Drying Rack
A retractable or fold-down drying rack is a must-have in a small laundry room. When not in use, it can be neatly tucked away, saving valuable space. Consider installing one that folds out from the wall or ceiling. This allows you to dry delicate items flat, preventing damage and saving energy compared to using a dryer. Pair this with a minimalist design aesthetic, using white or light grey walls and simple, streamlined cabinetry, a popular choice in Scandinavian-inspired design seen across both the US and EU. Incorporate natural light wherever possible to further enhance the sense of space.
Pull-Out Ironing Board
Integrate a pull-out ironing board into your laundry room design for ultimate convenience. These can be built into cabinets or drawers and easily extended when needed. When not in use, they disappear seamlessly into the cabinetry, maintaining a clutter-free environment. Consider a modern farmhouse style for this design, using a combination of white shaker cabinets and warm wood tones. This style is currently trending in both the US and EU, offering a balance of practicality and aesthetic appeal. Add vintage-inspired hardware for a touch of character.
Under-Sink Storage Solutions
Maximize the space under your laundry room sink with clever storage solutions. Install pull-out drawers or shelves to organize cleaning supplies and other essentials. Use clear containers to easily identify items and keep the space looking tidy. A popular trend in the US is to utilize a farmhouse sink with an apron front, providing a charming and functional focal point. Pair this with open shelving below for easy access to frequently used items. In the EU, minimalist handleless cabinets are trending, creating a clean and modern look.
Wall-Mounted Folding Table
A wall-mounted folding table provides a dedicated space for folding laundry without taking up valuable floor space. When not in use, it can be folded down against the wall. Consider positioning it near the dryer for a streamlined workflow. Industrial style design is gaining popularity in both the US and EU, featuring exposed brick, metal accents, and utilitarian fixtures. Incorporate this style by using a metal folding table and open metal shelving. Pair this with a neutral color palette of grey, black, and white.
Slim Rolling Cart for Extra Storage
A narrow rolling cart can be tucked into tight spaces and provides extra storage for laundry supplies or folded clothes. Choose a cart with multiple tiers to maximize storage capacity. Look for one with a metal frame and mesh baskets for a modern industrial look, reflecting current trends in both the US and EU. This allows for good ventilation and prevents items from getting damp. Alternatively, a wooden cart with woven baskets can add warmth and texture to a more minimalist design scheme.
Bright and Airy White Laundry Room
White is a classic choice for small spaces, as it reflects light and creates a sense of openness. Paint the walls, cabinets, and ceiling white to maximize the feeling of airiness. Incorporate pops of color through accessories like rugs, towels, and artwork. A current trend in Scandinavian design, popular in both the US and EU, is to use varying shades of white to create depth and interest. Consider pairing bright white walls with off-white cabinets and a light grey floor.
Bold and Dramatic Dark Laundry Room
Contrary to popular belief, dark colors can work well in small spaces when used strategically. A deep navy blue, charcoal grey, or even black can create a dramatic and sophisticated laundry room. Pair the dark walls with lighter colored cabinetry and flooring to create contrast and prevent the space from feeling too closed in. Brass or gold hardware can add a touch of luxury and warmth, a trend seen in both US and EU interior design. Consider incorporating patterned tiles on the floor to add visual interest.
Modern Minimalist Laundry Room
Embrace the minimalist aesthetic by keeping the design clean and uncluttered. Opt for sleek, handleless cabinets, a neutral color palette, and minimal decorations. Incorporate hidden storage solutions to keep surfaces clear. This style is particularly popular in European design, focusing on functionality and simplicity. Use natural materials like wood and stone to add warmth and texture. Consider incorporating a large window to maximize natural light and enhance the sense of spaciousness.
Rustic Farmhouse Laundry Room
Create a cozy and inviting laundry room with rustic farmhouse elements. Use shiplap walls, open shelving with vintage-inspired storage containers, and a farmhouse sink. Incorporate warm wood tones and natural textures like wicker and linen. This style remains incredibly popular in the US, with its emphasis on comfort and practicality. Add vintage signage or artwork for a touch of personality. Consider using a sliding barn door to conceal the washer and dryer.
Contemporary Laundry Room with Geometric Patterns
Incorporate geometric patterns through tiles, wallpaper, or textiles to add visual interest and a contemporary touch. Choose bold colors and contrasting patterns for a dramatic effect. This trend is gaining popularity in both the US and EU, offering a modern and dynamic aesthetic. Pair the patterned elements with sleek, modern cabinetry and minimalist fixtures. Consider using a hexagon tile backsplash or a patterned floor rug.
Laundry Room with a Pop of Color
Add a vibrant pop of color to your laundry room to energize the space. Paint a feature wall in a bold hue, like sunny yellow, coral, or teal. Incorporate the color through accessories like towels, laundry baskets, and artwork. This is a simple yet effective way to personalize the space and reflect your own style. This trend is prevalent in both US and EU design, allowing for individual expression within a functional space. Consider pairing the bold color with neutral tones like white or grey to create balance.
Laundry Room with a Wallpaper Feature Wall
Wallpaper can add personality and visual interest to a small laundry room. Choose a bold print or a subtle texture to create a focal point. Consider using wallpaper with a waterproof finish for durability. Floral prints, geometric patterns, and abstract designs are all popular choices. This trend is seeing a resurgence in both the US and EU, offering a wide range of styles to suit any taste. Pair the wallpaper with simple, neutral colored cabinetry and accessories.
Laundry Room with Open Shelving
Open shelving provides a practical and visually appealing way to store laundry essentials. Use baskets, jars, and containers to organize items and add a decorative touch. Open shelving allows you to easily access frequently used items and can create a sense of openness in a small space. This trend is popular in both the US and EU, particularly in minimalist and Scandinavian inspired designs. Consider using floating shelves for a modern look or rustic wooden shelves for a farmhouse feel.
Laundry Room with a Gallery Wall
Personalize your laundry room by creating a gallery wall with artwork, photographs, and other decorative items. This adds personality and visual interest to the space. Choose frames that complement your overall design style. Gallery walls are a popular way to add a personal touch to any space and are trending in both the US and EU. Consider using a mix of frame sizes and styles for a eclectic look. Choose artwork that reflects your interests and hobbies.
Laundry Room with a Built-In Pet Bed
If you have a furry friend, consider incorporating a built-in pet bed into your laundry room design. This creates a cozy and designated space for your pet and keeps them out of the way while you’re doing laundry. This can be achieved by creating a nook under the counter or incorporating a pull-out bed from a cabinet. This trend reflects a growing awareness of pet-friendly design in both the US and the EU. Consider using durable and washable fabrics for the pet bed.
Laundry Room with a Designated Folding Station
Create a dedicated folding station in your laundry room with a countertop and ample storage space for folded clothes. This can be a built-in counter or a freestanding table. This allows you to efficiently fold and organize laundry without cluttering up other areas of your home. This focus on functionality and organization is a key element of modern laundry room design in both the US and the EU. Consider using baskets or drawers to sort and store folded items.
Laundry Room with a Hanging Rod
Install a hanging rod above the washer and dryer or on a blank wall to hang clothes that need to air dry. This is a space-saving solution that prevents wrinkles and saves energy. This simple yet practical feature is a staple in laundry rooms across both the US and the EU. Consider using a decorative rod and hangers to add a touch of style to the space.
