Laundry in the 1700’s was done near running water utilizing water and rocks. It has evolved slowly over time using heated water and soap. In the 1930’s laundry equipment was placed in the room with the most efficient plumbing and lighting supply, the kitchen. After World War ll, laundry equipment became smaller and was moved into the basement to keep the “noise” of the machines away from living spaces. At that point laundry rooms were known as the “utility room.” Laundry rooms were often drab, ugly, smelly, and not a place you’d want to spend much time in. Over the years laundry rooms have moved not only from the basement, but onto the first and sometimes even second floors of the home. They have become more than just a room to do your laundry in. The modern laundry room is all about maximizing space and functionality in an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere.

What to Consider When Designing and Remodeling a Laundry Room

1. Elevated Appliances – Adding a custom built-in base cabinet in the laundry room that raises the washer and dryer can save your back the wear and tear from bending over when changing laundry and allow for additional storage.
2. Counter Space – Large counter tops in the laundry room are a necessity whenever possible and are beneficial for separating, loading, and unloading laundry, as well as folding. How often have you folded your laundry from the couch or in your bedroom?
3. Sinks – Scrubbing muddy shoes or grass-stained pants is a task for a laundry room sink, not a kitchen sink. Having a sink in the laundry room also makes washing delicate items easy.
4. Additional Storage – There’s no such thing as too much storage. A laundry room remodel is the perfect time to conceal clutter with extra cabinets, shelving, and organization. When it comes to cleaning up and staying organized, storage is a must.
5. Good Lighting – This is an easy, cost-effective way to brighten up your laundry room while updating it, too. Get rid of the old, outdated light fixtures and opt for something new and trendy, like recessed lighting or a modern fixture. Like any work area, good lighting is important.
6. Flooring – When it comes to flooring, durability is key! You’ll want something that is tough, waterproof, and scratch resistant in the laundry room. Tile is hands down the best option for the job and can go a long way towards modernizing the look in the room and a design option to add a splash of fun.
7. Hanging/Drying Rack – Having a place for items that need to hang dry is a huge plus in a laundry room (beats hanging dripping clothes off doorknobs or kitchen cabinets!). Keep in mind where they will “drip”, so ensure it is a waterproof area (see flooring above).
8. Multi-Function – A multifunctional laundry room could also include a mudroom, dog area, craft station, gift wrapping station, message center, etc. We have even put a home office in a large laundry room, as well as a cabinet designed to conceal a kitty litter station. If space allows, utilize it for your family’s needs. Even a dog washing station has grown in popularity for muddy paw prints.

Some sources quote that the return on your investment for a laundry room remodel is 67%-91% in the first year. In addition, the improved functionality and ability to personalize the laundry room to meet the needs of your family, makes a remodel an important one. Any way to make a tedious task more enjoyable.

Check out a few of our laundry room remodels to give you an idea on how some of our homeowners chose to remodel and use their updated laundry rooms.

Dated 70’s Laundry Room Gets Contemporary Makeover (Before to After)

Dramatic Multi Room Renovation

Sophisticated Master Suite and Laundry Addition

Growing Family Needs More Space

If you’re in the process of remodeling your laundry room, or are interested in getting started, we’d be happy to assist you with these and other areas of your home. Our team of designers can also provide you with great layout options and smart designs to optimize the look and functionality of the space. We want you to Love Where You Live.