Construction Specification For Renovating A Laundry Room

How to Design a Functional Laundry Room

Learn some practical design ideas for creating a high-functioning and stylish laundry room.

A laundry room is one of the most functional workrooms in your home. A well-designed and well-equipped laundry room can be a pleasure to work in, helping you save time and keep the laundry pile under control.

Ideally, a well-functioning laundry room should have plenty of natural or artificial light, secure storage for laundry products, plenty of space for all your laundry equipment, and plenty of counter space for sorting and folding clean clothes.

Let’s examine specifications, dimensions, and design ideas to consider as you create your ideal laundry room.

Think About Functionality First

According to a National Association of Homebuilders consumer survey conducted in 2019, 95 percent of new homeowners want a separate laundry room. The survey also found that 65% of laundry rooms are built on upper levels rather than first floors or basements. The survey also found that homeowners want an extended, multi-functional work area in the laundry room.

If you’re considering adding a separate laundry room, start the process by brainstorming functionality. Do you prefer that your laundry room also function as an entry mudroom? Do you need storage? Or will you need space for your pet care? Features like built-in ironing boards, solid surface counter space for folding or sorting laundry, and built-in storage are all popular options. Other popular features include a laundry room sink for soaking clothes and washing the dog and secure storage for keeping cleaning supplies out of the reach of the pets and kids.

Consider how you’ll use your new space and what features you’d like to include. Then, you can begin to look at design and space specifications.

5 Tips for Making the Most of Your New Laundry Room

When designing your laundry room, consider several important factors, from where to place it to practical layout ideas. These five tips can help you to plan the perfect workspace.

1. Find the Perfect Place

A large laundry room in the basement is out of sight and earshot. However, a smaller space, like a utility room or mudroom, can be made into a functional laundry room. One excellent space for your laundry room is upstairs near the bathroom. You’ll be close to water lines and save yourself the hassle of carrying laundry up and down the stairs.

2. Carefully Consider Your Laundry Room Design

Like a pantry or dressing room, if your laundry room is connected to another space, it should reflect its aesthetic design. If your laundry room is entirely separate and behind closed doors, you have the luxury of having fun with the décor. Consider adding whimsical wallpaper or striking bold colors. Whatever you choose aesthetically, don’t skimp on the fixtures and finishes. For example, ensure the flooring and countertops are impervious to splashes and drips from water and cleaning chemicals.

3. Get the Layout Right

When working with a designer and planning your laundry room layout, think about how you’ll organize and use the space. Base your design around what you’ll be doing in the space, for example, sorting, drying, folding, ironing, and pre-soaking. Create both a wet and dry zone. It will make the space easy to use and more convenient. Plus, it can cut down on the plumbing and installation work. In a smaller space consider a stackable washer/dryer combo and wall or ceiling-hung options, which can save floor space. If you have a larger space, add closed storage or even an island or wall-mounted folding table.

4. Choose Your Appliances Carefully

Consider a combined, front-opening washer/dryer to allow for a countertop above. A larger laundry room allows you the luxury of side-by-side full-size appliances with doors that open in opposite directions for convenience. To save space, consider appliances that can be stacked. For added comfort, consider having the washer and dryer raised off the floor with built-in storage below. Look for the Energy Star label. Certified washers use around 20% less energy and 30% less water than regular machines. The latest smart washers can even be controlled from your smartphone.

5. Consider Lighting and Ventilation

An open window or door that allows daylight and ventilation is always a good option. However, consider adding a dehumidifier or heated laundry rack for added convenience. If you work in the laundry room early in the morning or later in the evening, include focused task lighting.

The Bottom Line on a Laundry Room Redesign

First and foremost, your laundry room must be functional, practical, and convenient. For this, you’ll need hanging and drying space, a washer and dryer that will meet your family’s needs, and a countertop and sink for sorting, stacking, folding, and soaking. Make sure you have plenty of natural or artificial light and proper ventilation. If you have the space, closed cabinet space can keep your room looking clutter-free and organized.

Are you considering adding a laundry room to your home? Let us help you design the perfect space to meet your needs! If you live in the Greater Madison area, call the experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel at (608) 846-5963. We can take your home to the next level of comfort, design, and function! Are you ready to learn more? We are always available and happy to answer your questions.