With the limited space in modern apartments, having a dedicated laundry room is often a luxury. Laundry functions are usually integrated into the bathroom, kitchen, or another corner of the home. However, with a little design know-how, it’s possible to create a small, functional laundry area that is also visually appealing. In compact spaces, functionality comes first, and design should prioritize how the user moves within the space, especially when it’s filled with laundry.
A Brief History of the Home Laundry Room
The home laundry room emerged in the 1930s with the development of indoor plumbing and the introduction of washing machines (1937) and electric dryers (1938).
Evolution of Location Over Time
-
Kitchen: Initially, machines were placed in rooms with existing plumbing and electricity, making the kitchen a common location—similar to small apartments today.
-
Basement (Post-WWII): Basements became popular for laundry rooms, helping to isolate noise from living areas.
-
Main Floor: As appliances became quieter and homes larger, laundry rooms moved to the main floor, often integrated into the mudroom connecting garages to the house for convenience.
Today, quieter and more stylish machines allow laundry areas to be incorporated even next to master bedrooms for easy access and convenience.
Storage Solutions for Small Laundry Rooms
Vertical Storage
Stacking the washer and dryer saves floor space and allows cabinets to extend to the ceiling. This not only increases storage but keeps essentials within easy reach, maximizing every square inch.
Rotating Storage Units
A narrow multi-tiered rotating unit beside the washer can serve as additional storage for detergents, clothespins, hangers, or folded linens.
Shelves, Cabinets, and Baskets
Open shelves or cabinets can hold laundry supplies, extra blankets, and ironing boards, keeping the space organized.
Laundry in the Bathroom
If your laundry area is part of the bathroom, use open shelving for personal care and laundry products to maintain order.
One-Wall Laundry Setup
For very small spaces, all laundry essentials can fit into a standard wardrobe (around 2 meters wide) with a sliding door. A front-loading washer placed below the cabinets keeps the area neat and hidden when not in use.
Modern Washer and Dryer Models
Consider front-loading washers with storage drawers underneath—they reduce back strain by minimizing bending and provide extra vertical storage for large items, detergents, or paper towels.
Ironing in the Laundry Room
-
Foldable Ironing Board: Install a small foldable board in a recessed wall niche with a cabinet door. It stays out of the way but is ready when needed.
-
Wall-mounted Board: If hiding it isn’t possible, lean it against a narrow wall for easy access.
-
Reduce Ironing: Hang clothes immediately after drying using a short rod between shelves for simple, efficient handling in a small space.
Decor Ideas to Enhance a Small Laundry Room
A laundry room doesn’t have to be dark or dull. Small design touches can make it both functional and appealing:
-
Paint: Glossy white paint makes a narrow space feel larger. Add small colorful accessories, like cabinet handles, or choose vibrant wall colors for energy.
-
Wallpaper: Patterned wallpaper on one wall can create a cheerful focal point when combined with neutral cabinets.
-
Tile or Wood Panels: Use ceramic, marble, or treated wood on key walls—particularly the wall separating the washer from upper cabinets.
-
Lighting: Bright lighting is essential, whether natural or from a stylish fixture.
-
Personal Touches: Decorate with functional vases, framed art, or family photos to make the space inviting.
Post a Comment