Australian homeowners often face the challenge of limited space, especially when it comes to laundry rooms. However, small doesn’t have to mean cramped or dysfunctional. With clever design choices and innovative storage solutions, even the tiniest laundry nook can be transformed into a stylish and efficient space. Drawing inspiration from the latest US and EU trends, we’ve compiled 28 design ideas to maximize your small laundry room in Australia.
Stackable Washer and Dryer with Open Shelving
Maximize vertical space by opting for a stackable washer and dryer set. Install open shelving above the units to store detergents, fabric softeners, and other laundry essentials. Consider using sleek, white shelves against a soft grey wall for a modern minimalist look, reflecting popular Scandinavian design trends. Incorporate woven baskets for a touch of natural texture and to conceal clutter. This combination creates a clean and airy feel, making the space appear larger. For a bolder look, consider dark grey or black shelves with brass hardware, reflecting the industrial chic trend popular in the US.
Pull-Out Drying Rack
Incorporate a wall-mounted, pull-out drying rack that can be tucked away when not in use. This is a space-saving solution for air-drying delicate garments. Paint the wall a vibrant teal, a colour trending in both the US and EU, and pair it with white accents for a fresh and invigorating laundry room. Consider adding a small, patterned rug in complementary colours to add warmth and personality.
Fold-Down Ironing Board
Install a fold-down ironing board that can be easily mounted on the wall or inside a cabinet. This eliminates the need for a bulky ironing board and frees up valuable floor space. A neutral colour palette of beige and white with natural wood accents creates a calming and organized atmosphere, reflecting the Japandi trend gaining traction globally. Add a touch of greenery with a small potted plant to enhance the sense of tranquility.
Under-Sink Storage
Utilize the space under the sink by installing cabinets or drawers. This is ideal for storing cleaning supplies and other laundry room necessities. Opt for shaker-style cabinets in a classic white finish for a timeless look. Incorporate a patterned backsplash in shades of blue and white, inspired by Portuguese tile designs, to add a touch of visual interest. This combination creates a clean and functional space while reflecting current European design trends.
Wall-Mounted Cabinets
Maximize vertical space by installing wall-mounted cabinets above the washer and dryer or along an empty wall. This provides ample storage for laundry supplies and keeps the floor clear. Choose cabinets with a sleek, handleless design in a bold navy blue, a colour increasingly popular in US kitchen and laundry room designs. Pair this with brass hardware and a white countertop for a sophisticated and modern aesthetic.
Narrow Rolling Cart
A narrow rolling cart can be tucked away in small spaces and provides extra storage for detergents, laundry baskets, and other essentials. Opt for a metal cart with a black finish for an industrial look, or choose a natural wood cart for a more rustic feel. This versatile solution is both functional and stylish, reflecting the trend towards flexible and adaptable furniture in smaller homes.
Over-the-Door Organizer
Utilize the back of the laundry room door with an over-the-door organizer for storing cleaning supplies, brushes, and other small items. Choose a clear organizer to keep items visible and easily accessible, or opt for a fabric organizer with pockets for a more concealed storage solution. A pop of colour, such as a bright yellow or pink organizer, can add a playful touch to the space, echoing the trend of incorporating vibrant accents in minimalist spaces.
Corner Shelving
Maximize corner space with floating shelves or a corner shelf unit. This is an excellent way to utilize often-underutilized areas. Choose glass shelves for a modern and airy feel, or opt for wooden shelves for a warmer and more traditional aesthetic. Consider using a bold colour on the walls, such as a deep emerald green, a trending colour in European interiors, paired with brass shelf brackets for a luxurious touch.
Retractable Clothesline
Install a retractable clothesline that can be extended when needed and retracted when not in use. This is a space-saving solution for air-drying clothes indoors. Choose a stainless steel clothesline for a modern look, or opt for a white clothesline to blend seamlessly with the walls. Consider painting the wall behind the clothesline a soft pastel colour, such as lavender or mint green, reflecting the trend of incorporating calming colours into the home.
Wall-Mounted Folding Table
A wall-mounted folding table can be used for folding laundry and can be folded down when not in use to save space. Choose a table with a white laminate top and chrome legs for a modern look, or opt for a natural wood table for a warmer aesthetic. Consider pairing the table with a bright, geometric patterned wallpaper, a trend gaining popularity in the US, to add personality to the space.
Hidden Hamper
Build a hidden hamper into a cabinet or drawer to keep dirty laundry out of sight. This creates a cleaner and more organized look. Opt for a tilt-out hamper for easy access, or choose a pull-out hamper for a more discreet solution. This built-in solution can be seamlessly integrated into the overall design of the laundry room, reflecting the trend of maximizing functionality in limited spaces.
Vertical Laundry Basket System
Utilize vertical space with a stacked laundry basket system. This allows for sorting laundry and keeps the floor clear. Choose baskets in different colours to designate different loads, such as whites, darks, and colours. This system not only saves space but also adds a visually appealing element to the laundry room, reflecting the trend of incorporating functional décor.
Mirrored Walls
Install mirrors on one or more walls to create the illusion of a larger space. Mirrors reflect light and make the room appear brighter and more open. This classic design trick is particularly effective in small laundry rooms, reflecting the enduring popularity of using mirrors to enhance spatial perception.
Glass Door Cabinets
Choose cabinets with glass doors to display neatly organized laundry supplies and add a touch of elegance to the space. This allows you to showcase attractive containers and adds visual interest to the room. Consider using frosted glass for a more subtle look while still maintaining a sense of openness.
Floating Vanity
Install a floating vanity with a sink to create a more spacious feel. The open space beneath the vanity creates the illusion of a larger room. This modern design element is both stylish and functional, reflecting the trend of minimalist bathroom and laundry room design.
Pocket Door
Replace a traditional swinging door with a pocket door to save space. Pocket doors slide into the wall, eliminating the need for door swing clearance. This is a particularly effective solution in tight hallways or small laundry rooms.
Light and Bright Colour Scheme
Opt for a light and bright colour scheme to make the space feel larger and more open. White walls, light grey cabinets, and pastel accents create a clean and airy atmosphere. This classic design principle is particularly effective in small spaces, reflecting the enduring popularity of using light colours to enhance spaciousness.
Maximize Natural Light
Maximize natural light by keeping windows unobstructed and using sheer curtains or blinds. Natural light makes the space feel larger and more inviting. If natural light is limited, consider installing brighter light fixtures to mimic natural light.
Utilize Wallpaper
Use wallpaper to add personality and style to the laundry room. Choose a bold print or a subtle texture to create a focal point. Wallpaper can also be used to visually expand the space by using vertical stripes or a large-scale pattern.
Incorporate Plants
Add greenery to the laundry room with potted plants or hanging baskets. Plants add life and vibrancy to the space and can improve air quality. Choose low-maintenance plants that thrive in humid environments.
Add a Rug
A rug can add warmth and comfort to the laundry room and define the space. Choose a durable rug that can withstand moisture and frequent foot traffic. Consider a rug with a bold pattern or a bright colour to add personality.
Install a Backsplash
Protect the walls behind the washer and dryer with a stylish backsplash. Choose a tile backsplash for easy cleaning and durability, or opt for a peel-and-stick backsplash for a budget-friendly option.
Creative Lighting
Incorporate creative lighting fixtures to enhance the ambiance of the laundry room. Consider pendant lights, sconces, or under-cabinet lighting to add both functionality and style. LED strip lighting can be used to create a modern and sleek look.
Open Shelving with Baskets and Containers
Combine open shelving with stylish baskets and containers to create a visually appealing and organized storage solution. This allows you to display attractive items while concealing clutter. Choose baskets and containers in various sizes and materials to add texture and interest to the space.
