Laundries are one of those rooms that some people get very excited about planning and designing, and for others…hmmm, not so much. Whether having a lovely laundry is important to you or not, there are still some important considerations to ensure it is a space that makes the never-ending job of washing, just that little bit easier and more enjoyable.
Read on for our top five tips to consider when designing a laundry.
Consider additional shelving in your cupboards, like this broom cupboard, currently on display at Home Collective, Leederville.
Storage and ease
Firstly, write a list of everything you currently store in your laundry and any items you would like to store in your new laundry. Once you have that list pre-plan a space for each item.
Consider incorporating smaller cupboards or drawers to store cleaning supplies, medium-sized cupboards for bed linens and towels, and tall cupboards for items like vacuums, brooms, mops, and ironing boards. Also think about adding shelving into larger cupboards. If possible, include overhead cupboards for additional storage, but if budget constraints apply, opt for open shelves instead.
You might like to add a built in laundry hamper, and, pro tip: if you have lots of space, add one for whites and one for colours so laundry sorting is a breeze.
Think about the location of each cupboard and what you will put in each and make sure that the items you use the most will be easily accessible.
Appliances can be stacked (R) or fit neatly underneath a benchtop (L). And don't forget new appliances like steam cupboards (R).
Think about your appliances
Did you know some washers and dryers are stackable and some aren’t? And there are lots of different sized appliances out there. Make sure you measure and look into the requirements of yours, and then plan around them. Do you want them open, or hidden away behind cupboards?
Think of the future too. Right now, you may be happy with your small machine but if you’re building a family or forever home, you may need to upgrade the size of your appliances along the way and you will want room for them.
There are also new appliances you may want to incorporate into your design. Steam cupboards are trending – and why wouldn’t they? It means packing away the iron, potentially for ever! You can view a working steam cupboard at Home Collective in Leederville and decide if it is a must-have for our laundry design.
This large laundry has plenty of bench space. Image: Beaumont Tiles.
Consider bench space
Having a designated workspace can really amp up the productivity (and aesthetic!) of your laundry area. A spacious bench gives you the freedom to work smoothly and efficiently: perfect for sorting clothes, tackling stains, or zipping through folding.
And don’t forget about the sink! It’s a laundry room staple for most people. Just keep in mind its size and how much precious bench space and cupboard space it might swallow up.
Not all laundries need a benchtop though, and having no bench might be the best option for you.
Hidden hanging rails - genius.
Include a hanging rail
What is the number one feature that clients love the most in our laundry displays? Hanging rails. It might seem like a no-brainer but adding a rail to your laundry means you can dry some clothes indoors if it is too wet (or too hot), plus you can use to hang clothes as you iron.
Consider a ‘hidden’ rail if you install overhead cabinetry for a seriously stylish look.
Built in dog bed and dog washing station at the Dale Alcock Homes Amira Display Home.
Think of your pets
If you’ve got the room, why not carve out some special spots for your furry friends in your laundry setup? Think cozy corners for their beds, a dedicated dog-washing station, clever storage for food bowls, or even a designated area for litter trays. And if your pets hang out in the laundry while you’re away, consider making it extra comfy for them, with outside access via a built-in pet door.
Open shelves are a great option for those on a budget, as seen here in Homebuyers Centre's Bayside Display Home
Visit Home Collective Leederville for some laundry inspo and to view the Fisher and Paykel steam cupboard in action. You can also visit our display homes in Perth and the South West for more design ideas and layouts.
Images: Dale Alcock Homes Shorehouse Display, Dale Alcock Homes Amira Display, Homebuyers Centre Bayside Display and Beaumont Tiles Dramatic Stone laundry design
