A small, narrow laundry room doesn’t have to be a drab and inefficient space. With clever design choices and strategic use of shelving, you can transform this utilitarian area into a stylish and functional part of your home. From maximizing vertical space with floor-to-ceiling shelving to incorporating pull-out drying racks and hidden ironing boards, the possibilities are endless. Let’s explore 21 design ideas that will inspire you to reimagine your small narrow laundry room.
Open Shelving with Woven Baskets
Embrace a rustic farmhouse aesthetic by installing open shelves made of reclaimed wood. Use woven baskets in varying sizes to store laundry essentials, keeping everything organized and visually appealing. Incorporate warm, neutral colors like beige, cream, and gray for the walls and shelves, and add pops of color with the baskets or decorative items. This style is trending in both the US and EU, offering a cozy and inviting feel.
Sleek White Minimalism
For a modern and clean look, opt for sleek white shelves against a contrasting dark wall. This high-contrast design creates a dramatic effect while maximizing the sense of space. Incorporate minimalist hardware and hidden storage solutions to maintain a streamlined appearance. This style is particularly popular in European design, emphasizing functionality and clean lines. Consider adding a touch of warmth with wooden accents or a patterned floor tile.
Vertical Ladder Shelving
Maximize vertical space with a leaning ladder shelf. This space-saving solution provides ample storage without taking up valuable floor space. Paint the ladder a bold color, like teal or emerald green, to make it a focal point in the room. Use the shelves to store folded towels, laundry detergents, and decorative items. This trend is gaining popularity in both the US and EU, offering a unique and stylish storage solution for small spaces.
Built-in Cabinets with Pull-Out Drawers
Invest in custom built-in cabinets with pull-out drawers to maximize storage and organization. Opt for light-colored cabinets to brighten the space and create a sense of airiness. Incorporate features like pull-out laundry hampers and ironing boards for added convenience. This classic design transcends trends and offers a timeless solution for laundry room storage.
Floating Shelves with Glass Jars
Install floating shelves and use clear glass jars to store laundry detergent, fabric softener, and other supplies. This not only keeps everything organized but also adds a touch of visual interest. Consider adding labels to the jars for a more polished look. This trend is popular in both the US and EU, blending functionality with a clean aesthetic. Use a soft color palette, such as pastels or muted tones, to create a calming atmosphere.
Industrial Metal Shelving
Embrace the industrial trend with metal shelving units. The raw, unfinished look of metal adds a touch of edginess to the laundry room. Combine the metal shelves with wooden countertops or accents to soften the look. This style is particularly prevalent in urban lofts and modern homes in both the US and EU.
Corner Shelving Unit
Utilize often-wasted corner space with a corner shelving unit. This allows you to maximize storage without obstructing the flow of the room. Opt for a unit with adjustable shelves to accommodate items of varying sizes. This practical solution is a timeless classic in both US and EU homes.
Over-the-Washer and Dryer Shelving
Install shelves above the washer and dryer to utilize the often-unused space. This provides a convenient spot for storing detergents, fabric softeners, and other laundry essentials. Consider adding a rod for hanging clothes to dry. This space-saving solution is a popular choice in both the US and EU.
Recessed Shelving
Create a seamless look by incorporating recessed shelving into the wall. This maximizes space and provides a clean, minimalist aesthetic. Paint the recessed area a contrasting color to add visual interest. Recessed shelving is a sophisticated design choice gaining popularity in contemporary homes across the US and EU.
Hanging Baskets for Storage
Add a touch of bohemian charm with hanging baskets. Suspend them from the ceiling or wall to store laundry supplies, small items, or even plants. Use a variety of basket sizes and materials to create a visually appealing display. This trend is particularly popular in eclectic and bohemian-inspired homes in the US and EU.
Under-Shelf Baskets and Bins
Maximize the space under your shelves by using baskets and bins to store items. This keeps everything organized and out of sight. Choose baskets that complement the overall design of your laundry room. This practical storage solution is a staple in both US and EU homes.
Narrow Rolling Cart
A narrow rolling cart is a versatile storage solution for a small laundry room. Use it to store cleaning supplies, laundry detergents, or folded towels. The mobility of the cart allows you to easily move it around as needed. This functional and space-saving solution is a popular choice in both the US and EU.
Wall-Mounted Drying Rack
Save floor space with a wall-mounted drying rack. This provides a convenient spot for drying delicate items or clothes that cannot be put in the dryer. Fold the rack up against the wall when not in use to conserve space. This practical solution is a common feature in European laundry rooms and is gaining popularity in the US.
Pegboard Wall Organizer
Install a pegboard wall to create a versatile storage solution. Use hooks and baskets to hang and organize laundry supplies, tools, and other items. Paint the pegboard a bold color to make it a focal point in the room. This trend is popular in both the US and EU for its flexibility and customizable storage options.
Magnetic Spice Rack for Small Items
Repurpose a magnetic spice rack to store small laundry items like clothespins, safety pins, and buttons. Attach it to the wall or the side of a cabinet for easy access. This clever and unexpected solution adds a touch of personality to the laundry room.
Tiered Shelving Unit
Maximize space with a tiered shelving unit. The varying shelf heights allow you to store items of different sizes. Use the top shelf for decorative items and the lower shelves for laundry essentials. This classic storage solution is a staple in both US and EU homes.
Pull-Out Ironing Board
Install a pull-out ironing board to save space and keep your ironing board readily accessible. Hide it away in a cabinet or drawer when not in use. This convenient feature is popular in both US and EU homes, particularly in smaller spaces.
Fold-Down Drying Rack
A fold-down drying rack is a space-saving solution for drying clothes. Mount it to the wall and fold it down when needed. When not in use, it folds flat against the wall, freeing up valuable space. This practical feature is becoming increasingly popular in US and EU homes with limited space.
Utilizing Door Space with Over-the-Door Organizers
Don’t forget to utilize the back of the laundry room door for storage. Hang an over-the-door organizer to store cleaning supplies, laundry bags, or other items. This maximizes space and keeps everything within easy reach. Over-the-door organizers are a popular storage solution in both the US and EU.
