Laundry rooms, often relegated to forgotten corners and awkward spaces, are experiencing a design renaissance. No longer just a utilitarian space, the modern laundry room, even the smallest and most oddly shaped, can be a stylish and functional extension of your home. This article explores 21 design ideas to transform your small, odd-shaped laundry room into a space you’ll actually enjoy spending time in.
Stackable Washer and Dryer with Open Shelving
Maximize space in a narrow laundry room by investing in a stackable washer and dryer set. Install open shelving above the units for detergent, fabric softener, and other essentials. Incorporate baskets and jars for a visually appealing and organized look. Trending in both the US and EU is the use of natural materials like wood and wicker for shelving and storage, paired with sleek, stainless steel appliances for a modern industrial feel. A soft color palette of grays and whites with pops of greenery can brighten the space and make it feel less cramped. Consider adding a small, patterned rug to add warmth and personality.
Vertical Stripes to Elongate the Room
In a laundry room with low ceilings, utilize vertical stripes on the walls to create an illusion of height. Opt for subtle stripes in calming shades of blues or greens, reflecting current Scandinavian design trends popular in the EU. Pair the stripes with white cabinetry and chrome hardware for a clean and airy aesthetic. Add pops of color with brightly colored towels and laundry baskets. Consider using peel-and-stick wallpaper for an easy and affordable way to incorporate this trend. Adding a large mirror can also amplify the effect of the vertical lines and make the space feel larger.
Built-in Ironing Board and Folding Station
Optimize functionality in a small laundry room by incorporating a built-in ironing board and folding station. These can be cleverly tucked away when not in use, maximizing space efficiency. Popular in both US and EU homes, these built-ins often feature sleek, minimalist designs with hidden compartments for storage. Consider a light wood finish for a warm and inviting feel, or a bold color like navy blue or emerald green to make a statement. Pair with brass hardware and industrial-style lighting for a trendy, on-point look.
Corner Sink and Custom Countertop
Utilize an awkward corner by installing a corner sink and custom countertop. This maximizes space and adds valuable functionality to the laundry room. Quartz countertops in light colors, like Carrara marble or white concrete, are highly popular in both the US and EU for their durability and modern aesthetic. Pair with a sleek, undermount sink and contemporary faucet. Open shelving below the sink can provide storage for cleaning supplies. Consider adding a backsplash in a contrasting color or pattern for visual interest.
Hidden Laundry Hamper System
Keep dirty clothes out of sight with a hidden laundry hamper system. This can be a built-in cabinet with pull-out hampers or a tilt-out hamper built into the wall. This trend is gaining popularity in both the US and EU as homeowners seek to maximize space and maintain a clutter-free environment. Use a neutral color palette for the cabinetry to blend seamlessly with the rest of the laundry room design. Consider adding labels to each hamper for easy sorting. You can even incorporate a built-in drying rack above the hampers.
Bold Wallpaper and Contrasting Trim
Make a statement in a small laundry room with bold wallpaper and contrasting trim. Geometric patterns and floral prints are currently trending in both the US and EU. Opt for a wallpaper with a large-scale pattern to create a focal point. Pair the bold wallpaper with crisp white trim for a clean and modern look. Consider using a darker color for the trim to create a dramatic contrast. Adding metallic accents through hardware or lighting fixtures can elevate the design further.
Pocket Door to Save Space
Replace a traditional swing door with a pocket door to save valuable floor space in a small laundry room. Pocket doors seamlessly disappear into the wall, allowing for better traffic flow and maximizing usable space. This trend is particularly popular in European homes where space is often at a premium. Paint the pocket door the same color as the walls to create a cohesive look. Consider using frosted glass for the door to allow natural light to filter through while maintaining privacy.
Glass Front Cabinets for Display
Showcase neatly folded towels and laundry supplies in glass-front cabinets. This adds a touch of elegance and visual interest to the laundry room. Glass-front cabinets are a timeless design element that works well in both traditional and contemporary styles. Popular in both the US and EU, these cabinets can be customized with interior lighting to further enhance the display. Opt for clear glass for a modern look or seeded glass for a more vintage feel.
Floating Shelves for a Modern Look
Install floating shelves for a modern and minimalist look in the laundry room. These shelves provide ample storage space without taking up valuable floor space. Floating shelves are a versatile design element that can be used to display decorative items, plants, or functional items like laundry detergent and fabric softener. Use a mix of open and closed storage to create visual interest and keep clutter at bay. Consider incorporating LED lighting underneath the shelves for a contemporary touch.
Bright and Airy White on White
Create a bright and airy laundry room with an all-white color scheme. White walls, cabinets, and appliances reflect light and make the space feel larger. This classic and timeless look is popular in both the US and EU. Add texture and interest with different shades of white and varying materials. Incorporate natural elements like wood and wicker to warm up the space. Consider adding a pop of color with a brightly colored rug or artwork.
Dark and Moody Charcoal Accent Wall
Add drama and sophistication to the laundry room with a dark charcoal accent wall. This creates a focal point and adds depth to the space. Dark accent walls are a popular trend in both the US and EU, adding a touch of moodiness and sophistication to any room. Pair the charcoal wall with lighter colored cabinetry and flooring to create contrast. Consider incorporating metallic accents like brass or copper to add warmth and glamour. Good lighting is crucial in a room with a dark accent wall.
Maximize Vertical Space with Floor-to-Ceiling Storage
In a small laundry room, maximize vertical space by installing floor-to-ceiling storage cabinets. This provides ample storage for all your laundry essentials and keeps the space organized. This design solution is particularly popular in European homes where space is often limited. Opt for sleek, handleless cabinets for a modern look. Consider incorporating a pull-out laundry hamper or ironing board within the cabinetry for added functionality. Use a light color palette for the cabinets to prevent the space from feeling overwhelming.
Patterned Tile Floor for Visual Interest
Add visual interest to the laundry room with a patterned tile floor. Geometric patterns, such as Moroccan or encaustic tiles, are currently trending in both the US and EU. Choose a durable and water-resistant tile that can withstand the demands of a laundry room. Consider using a neutral color palette for the walls and cabinets to allow the patterned floor to be the focal point. A patterned floor can also help to disguise dirt and grime.
Utilize Awkward Spaces with Custom Built-Ins
Maximize every inch of space in an odd-shaped laundry room by incorporating custom built-ins. This allows you to utilize awkward corners and nooks for storage or functionality. Custom built-ins can be designed to perfectly fit the unique dimensions of your laundry room, making the most of every available space. This approach is particularly popular in older homes with unique architectural features. Consider incorporating a built-in drying rack, folding table, or ironing board into the design.
Add a Touch of Luxury with a Chandelier
Elevate the laundry room with a statement chandelier. This unexpected design element adds a touch of glamour and sophistication to the space. Chandeliers are no longer limited to dining rooms and entryways. They are increasingly being used in unexpected spaces like laundry rooms to add a touch of luxury and personality. Choose a chandelier that complements the overall design style of your laundry room. Consider a crystal chandelier for a glamorous look or a more rustic style for a farmhouse feel.
Incorporate a Gallery Wall
Personalize your laundry room with a gallery wall featuring artwork, photographs, and other decorative items. This adds personality and visual interest to the space. Gallery walls are a popular trend in both the US and EU, allowing homeowners to showcase their personal style and interests. Choose a mix of frame styles and sizes for a curated look. Consider incorporating laundry-themed artwork or vintage laundry signs for a whimsical touch.
Boldly Colored Cabinets
Make a statement in your laundry room with boldly colored cabinets. Deep blues, greens, and even blacks are trending in both US and EU kitchen and laundry room design. This adds personality and a contemporary edge to what can be a mundane space. Pair bold cabinetry with neutral countertops and walls to create balance. Consider using brass or gold hardware to add a touch of luxury. Good lighting is essential to prevent the space from feeling too dark.
Add a Rug to Soften the Space
Soften the hard surfaces in your laundry room with a rug. This adds warmth and comfort underfoot and can also help to absorb sound. Choose a durable and washable rug that can withstand the demands of a laundry room environment. Consider a rug with a geometric pattern or bold color to add visual interest. A runner rug is a great option for a narrow laundry room.
Incorporate Plants for a Touch of Nature
Bring the outdoors in by incorporating plants into your laundry room design. Plants add life and vibrancy to the space and can also help to purify the air. Choose plants that thrive in humid environments, such as ferns or snake plants. Consider hanging plants from the ceiling or placing them on shelves to save counter space. Adding a small herb garden can be both beautiful and functional.
