Although it often goes unnoticed, the laundry room is a key area in any home. Often, it ends up being an improvised space, chaotic or with temporary solutions that are neither practical nor aesthetic. However, renovating the laundry room can be a great opportunity to gain functionality, order and harmony at home. With a good design, even the smallest corner can be transformed into an efficient, beautiful area, perfectly adapted to your lifestyle.
1. Make the most of every corner: vertical and multifunctional design.
Ceiling-high floating shelves
Placing open or closed shelves on top of the laundry room will allow you to store cleaning products, baskets, detergents and towels without losing floor space. The vertical design maximizes the available space, ideal in small areas. You can combine open shelves for quick access with closed cabinets to maintain aesthetics.
Customized furniture for stacked washing machines
A practical solution is to stack the washer and dryer in a custom-made cabinet that takes advantage of the space to the millimeter. This type of furniture can also integrate shelves, pull-out baskets and even a hidden space for the laundry basket. It is ideal for keeping everything tidy and out of sight.
Spaces for other uses
If you have a little more space, consider including an area for ironing or folding clothes. A small desk or multifunctional countertop can be very useful and can incorporate drawers or cabinets underneath.
2. Sturdy, well-integrated furniture
Moisture-resistant and easy-to-clean materials
Choose materials that resist moisture and wear, such as water-repellent melamine, PVC, stainless steel or treated woods. These materials are not only durable, but also more hygienic and easier to clean, key aspects in an area as functional as the laundry room.
Folding solutions: boards, clotheslines and more
A folding ironing board that hides inside a closet or an extendable clothesline attached to the wall can make all the difference. There are also folding tables for folding laundry and benches with hidden storage, perfect for optimizing every square foot.
Integration with other spaces
If the laundry room shares space with the kitchen or bathroom, it is important that the furniture maintains aesthetic coherence. Choose similar finishes and design lines that do not break the visual harmony of the whole.
3. Lighting and ventilation
Natural light and light colors
Make the most of any window or natural light. High-efficiency white LED lighting can complement if you don’t have direct light. In addition, using colors such as white, pearl gray, beige or pastel blue provides a sense of cleanliness, spaciousness and visual order.
Adequate air extraction and circulation
Installing a vent or exhaust fan prevents problems such as dampness or mildew, especially if you use a dryer or if the laundry room is in an enclosed space. Air circulation also improves the natural drying of garments and extends the life of materials.
4. Small spaces, big solutions
Concealable cabinets for concealed laundry room
A laundry room can be integrated into a built-in cabinet with hinged, sliding or folding doors. This type of solution is ideal for small homes, studios or apartments where every centimeter counts. Inside, organize appliances and add upper modules for cleaning products.
Sliding doors for more space
Sliding doors are ideal for isolating the laundry room without encroaching on other areas. They work especially well in pass-through areas or kitchens where space is limited. Decorative panels can also be included to blend in as part of the furniture.
Portable or auxiliary modules
Rolling carts, mobile organizers or tower furniture can help you adapt the space to your daily needs. They are a practical option for those looking for flexibility.
5. Order and aesthetics
Vertical and concealed storage systems
Install wall organizers, hanging hooks, pull-out drawers and labeled baskets for a tidy space. Sort products by type (washing, ironing, general cleaning) for ease of use. Cabinets with smooth or louvered doors help maintain a clean aesthetic.
Unify the style with the rest of the house.
For visual integration, choose materials and finishes that are present in other areas of the home. The use of decorative textiles, such as appliance covers or fabric baskets, also contributes to a cozier, more cohesive atmosphere.
Tips before starting a laundry room renovation
Define your real needs
Before you start, think about what tasks you will perform in the laundry room: just washing clothes, drying, folding, ironing, storing cleaning products? Your answers will determine the design, furnishings and layout.
Choose the right location
If you are building or renovating from scratch, choose a location that has water, sewage, electricity and, preferably, natural ventilation. A laundry room near the bathroom or kitchen can facilitate installations and reduce costs.
Common mistakes when renovating a laundry room and how to avoid them
- Forgetting ventilation: a common cause of dampness, odors and mold.
- Few outlets: limits the simultaneous use of washing machine, dryer or iron.
- Lack of support surface: hinders tasks such as folding clothes or placing detergents.
- Choosing unsuitable materials: some finishes do not resist moisture well and deteriorate.
- Do not provide storage space: it generates disorder and a sense of visual chaos.
What furniture is best for the laundry room?
Moisture resistant furniture, easy to clean and with great storage capacity.
How much does it cost to renovate a small laundry room?
It depends on the level of renovation, but can range from €500 for basic improvements to €2,000 or more for complete renovations.
What do I do if I don’t have a laundry room?
You can integrate it into a built-in cabinet or place it in the bathroom/kitchen using sliding or hinged doors.
Should I install ventilation in the laundry room?
Yes, it is highly recommended, especially if you iron or use a dryer on it.
