The Laundry Room that Makes Laundry Bearable

Why is it that our utility rooms are designed as strictly that… utility? Function is always at its best when combined with form.  We do this in other rooms, but the laundry and mudroom are probably the most neglected rooms in a house. They are often designed simply to incorporate the necessities and thus are often under-utilized.  Since laundry is likely not anyone’s favourite activity, planning is the key to creating an efficient but inviting space. Redesigning your laundry room can make the chore seem like less of one.

When designing your custom home or remodelling your existing one, consider some of the following key elements:

• Practicality and Suitable Layout: Choose a laundry layout that suits the manner in which you and your family function. Perhaps your laundry room simply needs to be a reach-in type closet size area that houses your machines and a storage shelf for your supplies. You may have a need to have a more elaborate set up in a much larger space. This space may need to allow you to combine activities while you do your laundry (e.g. hobbies or other chores).
• Location: Combine a mudroom with a laundry area or adjacent to one another. When outdoor clothes need laundering, it is possible to avoid carrying them through the house and dropping dirt, snow, water through the house. If you hang clothes outside, this is the perfect area for your laundry room, close to an exit. A laundry off the kitchen area can allow you to complete other chores between loads, or be a part of the hub of the home even when you are doing chores. Being located close to a home office may also be beneficial for double duty chores. If your laundry is in your basement, you may want to consider moving it to the main floor where you spend the most time or perhaps you would prefer to have it near your bedrooms so that clothes are easily put away in bedrooms. Keep in mind that if you do laundry at times when a family member is sleeping, despite the improvements in appliances, the noise may be disturbing. Do not share a laundry and bedroom wall. If you do want your laundry in the basement, consider incorporating a laundry chute from your bedroom areas. This may help your family keep bedrooms and bathrooms organized and may reduce the stress of carrying loads of laundry to your machines. Consider how many floors you will have to carry your laundry to and from when designing your space. It may not be a big deal when you are young, but if you plan to stay in your home at some point it may be an obstacle.
• Organization: A well-designed laundry room can incorporate shelves and/or cabinetry to store more than just your laundry detergent. Ironing boards can be incorporated into built-ins and laundry can be hidden in pull out bins. Utilize this space to store household cleaning supplies or items that you do not have another storage area for. Make sure you establish a folding and ironing station that is convenient, safe and ergonomically designed. Remember life happens.
• Lighting: Task lighting is necessary, but if possible design this space with a window. Natural light provides a sense of tranquility that can certainly make a chore less tedious if you can enjoy the view.
• Sink and Shower Stall: Ensure that you incorporate a sink in your laundry room for soaking items or storing wet clothes before washing. You may even want to consider a shower stall if any member of your family including a pet may need to wash off the mud and dirt on a regular basis.
• Colour and Design: Colour does inspire mood, so choose colours that are inviting, calming and tranquil.  Decorate in a manner that is easy to clean. Cabinets with doors help to reduce clutter and keep dusting to a minimum.
• Appliances and Measurement: Ensure that you consider appliance size, door swing and distance when designing this space. Being able to utilize your machines properly is vital.  If you have a larger family, or intend to have one, or your job involves some serious dirt, you may want to consider having additional appliances incorporated in your design. Appliances are not just white anymore. Be a little daring and choose a colour that makes you happy.
• Technology: Incorporating music or television screen can help to make your chores less tedious. Consider your layout carefully to incorporate the amenities you prefer.

Planning a laundry room properly takes a great deal of consideration. If you are interested in a laundry room remodel and live in the Niagara Region, call the experts at Vanderzalm Construction Inc. at (905)562-4463 or (905)684-5823. You may not like laundry, but you can still love the room.