Love it or hate it, chances are if you have a family, you’re probably spending about a third of your life in your laundry! So lets create a clean, crisp comfortable yet functional area for sorting, washing, folding & ironing.
Decor-wise the laundry has often been overlooked and whilst it isn’t necessarily going to be the pride of your home it is a room that requires some careful planning so that it is as efficient as possible & not a drudge to be in.
The Four Zones
The ideal laundry should incorporate four working zones:
1) a preparation area
2) a washing and drying area
3) a counter for folding
4) an ironing area
Incorporate the washer and dryer first, as these are the most important elements and they take up the most space. Consider their positioning and build the other areas even if you only have a utility cupboard.
Storage! More is better!
Adequate storage is extremely important in a laundry. Built-in cabinetry, shelving, baskets and easy-to-clean counter tops create a crisp, clean and fresh zone. Laundries are often a bit of a dumping ground for other items including craft, linen, luggage etc so the more storage space the better. Choose waterproof surfaces for cabinets & shelving in laminates & stone and flooring in vinyl & tiles.
Ventilation
Good ventilation and an exhaust fan is another important consideration if you intend to run a dryer particularly if you don’t have a good sized window. Dryers create a lot of moisture which can lead to problems with mould and no-one wants that! Instead of a dryer, dry your clothes outside or select an undercover dryer area. This way you will avoid the possibility of mould and reduce your electricity bills substantially.
Design & Decor
No longer are laundries being overlooked in the overall interior design process. The laundry room now has the same importance as the bathroom. Interior décor products you might like to consider for your laundry might include designer sinks, countertops, cabinetry, glass splash backs and accessories that create a functional yet beautiful environment, but you don’t have to spend a lot to make your laundry a lovely space. By adding personal touches just like any other room you can make it a room you love .Add colour in splash backs, tiles & cabinetry to brighten up your room.
Luxuriate in the Laundry. Luxuriate? In the laundry?
Absolutely! Seeing as we spend so much time in there, why not add a little luxury in the laundry with music & televisions to help make the chore of laundering more pleasurable? Most Australian homes place the laundry at the back or side of the home with good access to the outdoor area, near the clothes line.
https://www.pinterest.com/oohmhomewares/laundry/
So make your laundry a place where you’ve created a beautiful space to work.
Thanks to the following sources for use of the images:
tilejunket.echoesoflaughter.southernliving.homedesigning.containerstore.houzz.woohome.atticmag.acobblestonefarm.jodiecarterdesign.decorpad.housetohome.idos