Transforming your laundry room from a drab chore zone into a stylish and functional space is easier than you think. With a few clever storage solutions and design choices, you can create a laundry room that is both beautiful and practical. Whether you prefer a minimalist aesthetic or a bold and colorful approach, there’s a laundry room design out there for you. From utilizing vertical space to incorporating hidden storage, we’ve compiled a list of inspiring ideas to elevate your laundry room to the next level.
Floating Shelves with Woven Baskets
Maximize space and add a touch of rustic charm with floating shelves. Install them above the washer and dryer or along an empty wall. Use woven baskets in natural tones like seagrass or rattan to store laundry supplies, detergents, and even folded towels. This combination creates a warm and organized look, popular in both US and EU farmhouse-style homes. Consider a soft sage green for the walls and white for the shelves to enhance the natural aesthetic. Incorporate brass or black hardware for a touch of modern contrast.
Pull-Out Drying Rack
A retractable drying rack is a space-saving solution for air-drying delicate garments. Install it under a countertop or inside a cabinet to keep it hidden when not in use. This feature is incredibly practical and trending in compact European laundry rooms where space is at a premium. Choose a sleek stainless steel rack for a modern look, or opt for a wooden one to complement a more traditional design. Color-wise, consider a monochromatic gray palette with pops of bright yellow in accessories for a contemporary feel.
Built-in Ironing Board
Streamline your laundry routine with a built-in ironing board. This convenient feature can be tucked away in a cabinet or drawer when not needed, freeing up valuable floor space. Pair this with a dedicated storage area for your iron and other ironing essentials. This trend is gaining traction in both the US and EU, especially in minimalist and contemporary designs. Consider a deep navy blue for the cabinetry with brushed gold hardware for a luxurious and sophisticated touch. White walls will keep the space feeling bright and airy.
Vertical Laundry Hamper System
Optimize vertical space with a built-in hamper system. Designate separate compartments for whites, darks, and delicates. This system keeps laundry organized and prevents overflowing hampers. Popular in both US and EU homes, this trend is often incorporated into custom cabinetry. Choose a light and airy color palette like pale blue and white to create a sense of calm and cleanliness. Chrome or nickel hardware adds a polished touch.
Under-Sink Storage with Tilt-Out Drawers
Maximize the often-underutilized space beneath your laundry sink with tilt-out drawers. These drawers are perfect for storing small items like sponges, scrub brushes, and stain removers. Opt for a clean and modern look with white shaker cabinets and a contrasting dark gray countertop. This classic combination works well in both US and EU homes. Consider adding a patterned backsplash in shades of blue and gray to add visual interest.
Wall-Mounted Drying Rack Above Washer and Dryer
This simple yet effective solution utilizes the often unused space above your washer and dryer. Install a wall-mounted drying rack that folds down when needed, providing ample space for air-drying clothes. The rack can be easily folded up against the wall when not in use, maximizing space. This is particularly popular in smaller European apartments and is gaining traction in the US. Consider a bright and airy color palette of white and light blue with natural wood accents for a Scandinavian-inspired feel.
Custom Cabinets with Countertop Folding Station
Invest in custom cabinetry that incorporates a dedicated countertop space for folding clothes. This creates a designated area for laundry tasks and helps keep the room organized. This trend is seen in both high-end US and EU homes. Consider using rich, dark wood tones for the cabinets with a contrasting light-colored countertop like quartz or marble. Brass hardware adds a touch of elegance. A bold paint color like emerald green or deep burgundy on an accent wall would add a dramatic flair.
Open Shelving with Decorative Storage Containers
Open shelving offers a versatile and visually appealing way to store laundry essentials. Use decorative storage containers, baskets, and jars to keep supplies organized and add a touch of personality to the space. This trend is popular in both US and EU homes, particularly in farmhouse and bohemian-style designs. Opt for natural materials like wood and wicker for the shelves and containers. A neutral color palette with pops of bright color in the accessories creates a welcoming and organized space.
Rolling Laundry Cart
A rolling laundry cart provides a flexible storage solution for transporting clothes and supplies. Choose a cart with multiple compartments and shelves for sorting and organizing. This practical solution is gaining popularity in both the US and EU. Metal carts with a powder-coated finish in black or white are trending. Consider adding colorful labels to each compartment for a personalized touch.
Pegboard Wall Organizer
A pegboard wall offers endless possibilities for customizing your laundry room storage. Hang baskets, hooks, and shelves to organize everything from cleaning supplies to ironing tools. This versatile solution is popular in both US and EU homes, especially in spaces with limited square footage. Paint the pegboard a vibrant color like coral or turquoise to make it a focal point in the room. White or natural wood shelves and accessories create a clean and organized look.
Hidden Laundry Room Behind Sliding Barn Door
Conceal your laundry area completely with a stylish sliding barn door. This is a great option for open-plan living spaces or for those who prefer a clutter-free aesthetic. This trend is popular in both US and EU homes, especially in farmhouse and industrial-style designs. Use reclaimed wood for the barn door to add a rustic touch. Paint the walls a soft gray or beige to create a neutral backdrop.
Laundry Room Wallpaper with Bold Prints
Add personality and visual interest to your laundry room with bold wallpaper. Choose a print that complements your overall design style, whether it’s floral, geometric, or abstract. Wallpaper is a great way to inject personality into a often overlooked space, a trend seen in both US and EU interiors. Consider a vibrant tropical print paired with white cabinets and natural wood accents for a fun and energetic space. Alternatively, a sophisticated geometric pattern in navy and gold would create a luxurious feel.
Glass-Front Cabinets for Displaying Laundry Supplies
Showcase beautifully organized laundry supplies in glass-front cabinets. This creates a visually appealing display while keeping everything easily accessible. Popular in both US and EU homes, this trend leans towards a more curated and intentional approach to storage. Choose shaker-style cabinets painted a soft gray or white. Add interior lighting to highlight the displayed items. Clear glass jars and canisters filled with laundry detergent, fabric softener, and other essentials create a cohesive and stylish look.
Built-in Laundry Chute
Simplify laundry collection with a built-in laundry chute. This convenient feature allows you to drop dirty clothes directly into the laundry room from other areas of the house. This is a more common feature in larger US homes and is becoming increasingly popular in newly built homes in the EU. Ensure the chute is properly ventilated and seamlessly integrated into the home’s design. The chute opening can be discreetly integrated into hallway closets or bathroom cabinetry.
Fold-Down Wall Desk for Laundry Tasks
Create a dedicated workspace in your laundry room with a fold-down wall desk. This provides a convenient spot for treating stains, folding clothes, or even working on other tasks. This space-saving solution is particularly popular in smaller European apartments and is gaining popularity in the US. Choose a desk that complements the overall design of the laundry room. A white or light wood desk would complement most color schemes. Add a comfortable chair and good lighting to create a functional workspace.
Hanging Rod for Air-Drying Clothes
Install a hanging rod above the washer and dryer or along an empty wall to provide a dedicated space for air-drying delicate garments or items that require hanging. This simple and practical solution is a staple in many European laundry rooms and is becoming increasingly popular in the US. Consider a sleek stainless steel rod for a modern look, or opt for a rustic wooden rod for a farmhouse aesthetic. Add decorative hooks for hanging smaller items.
Wire Baskets for Sorting Laundry
Utilize wire baskets to create a simple and efficient laundry sorting system. Label each basket for different categories like whites, colors, and delicates. This helps keep laundry organized and makes it easier to load and unload the washing machine. Wire baskets are a classic and affordable storage solution popular in both US and EU laundry rooms. Choose baskets with a powder-coated finish in white, black, or a bold color like red or yellow. Place the baskets on open shelves or inside cabinets for a neat and organized look.
Utilizing Attic Space for Laundry Storage
If you have attic space above your laundry room, consider utilizing it for additional storage. Install shelves or cabinets to store infrequently used laundry supplies or seasonal items. This maximizes space and keeps clutter out of the main laundry area. This is a practical solution for homes with limited storage space, a common challenge in both the US and EU. Ensure the attic space is properly insulated and ventilated to prevent moisture buildup. Install sturdy shelving units and use clear storage bins to easily identify stored items.
