Let’s Get Ready To Tumble
*Article originally written for and published in Grand Rapids Magazine March 2021 issue
The laundry room is arguably one of the hardest working spaces in a home, yet it’s often the most neglected when it comes to design. Often times, this space not only houses a washer and dryer but is also the storage area for cleaning products and bulk goods. So how do you maximize storage while creating a balance between form and function? These tips will help you create a beautiful space that makes laundry feel like less of a chore while keeping life just a little less messy.
DESIGN RECOMMENDATION #1: DEEP SINK
Incorporating a deep sink into your space will help with hand washing delicates, stain treating and pre-washing clothes, and soaking stained items while a pull-out spray on your faucet adds a second layer of cleaning convenience. Consider using a stain resistant sink like stainless or Silgranit that won’t be affected by the blue dyes often found in laundry detergent.
DESIGN RECOMMENDATION #2: DRYING RACK / ROD
A hanging rod and/or drying rack is a must for air drying delicates, and you don’t need a lot of space to incorporate one! If you don’t have room for a designated cubby like this laundry room, a wall-to-wall tension rod above the washer and dryer is a perfect solution.
DESIGN RECOMMENDATION #3: FOLDING SPACE
Imagine folding clothes in your beautiful laundry room rather than letting them sit in a hamper in your bedroom until you find the motivation to fold them. We’ve all been there. If you have front loading machines, a folding counter can conveniently be located on top of your washer and dryer, or it can be as simple as adding an adjacent console or counter next to your units.
DESIGN RECOMMENDATION #4: TRASH
A double trash can for a recycling bin and trash bin is the perfect catch all for dryer lint, laundry detergent bottles, and all of those miscellaneous goodies found in pockets before washing. Rarely are trash cans pretty, so bonus points if you’re able to incorporate it into your cabinetry — tucked away out of plain sight.
DESIGN RECOMMENDATION #5: CLOSED CABINETRY
Closed cabinets are the perfect place to store unsightly items like large bottles of detergent, softeners, cleaning supplies, and bulk goods. If nothing else, hide some chocolate in the cupboard. You’ll thank me later.
DESIGN RECOMMENDATION #6: OPEN STORAGE
Open storage works great for easily accessible baskets and cubbies to tuck hampers away. Bonus tip: Just because they’re hardworking doesn’t mean they can’t be beautiful. Ditch the white plastic hampers, and swap them out for some lovely woven baskets that better match your aesthetic.
DESIGN RECOMMENDATION #7: A FOCUS ON BEAUTIFUL DESIGN ELEMENTS
There’s no reason your laundry room can’t be efficient and beautiful. Closed off spaces in your home are the perfect place to take design risks and incorporate fun patterns or colors to make it uniquely you. Consider adding a bold floor tile, wallpaper, colorful cabinet color, or even a fun light fixture to make your laundry room an inspiring space to get the job done.