Designing a laundry room may seem straightforward, but its small size, frequent usage, and multifunctional nature can make it a challenging space to plan effectively. In this article, we delve into valuable insights and tips from a seasoned designer to transform your laundry room into a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. Discover essential dimensions, expert design tips, often-overlooked details, and even luxury additions that can elevate your laundry room experience.
Laundry Design Tips:
Dimensions Matter:
- Depth of room: Optimal at 1.65m, providing ample walk-through space and a 650mm bench area for essential appliances.
- Width of room: Ideal at 3m, accommodating side-by-side placement of a washing machine and dryer, a 60cm sink, and additional storage.
- The bench/countertop height is typically 900mm, adjustable based on user height and material thickness.
- Space between bench/countertop and overhead cabinets: Around 600mm, with adjustments for hanging rails.
Functionality First:
- Prioritize functionality by listing all laundry activities and required storage.
- Identify main functions: storage, soaking/washing/drying, sorting and folding, ironing, and hanging.
SketchUp for Effective Planning:
- Utilize tools like SketchUp to plan the laundry layout and cabinetry in 3D, ensuring optimal circulation space.
Elevated Appliances for Comfort:
- Design the laundry with elevated washers and dryers within the cabinetry to reduce bending and potential back strain.
Also Read: Advantages of Closed Kitchens in Modern Architecture
Strategic Storage:
- Ensure convenient storage for washing powder and daily-use products near the washer and dryer.
- Include a hanging rail for drying delicate items or facilitating ironing.
Appliance Selection:
- Choose appliances before designing aligning cabinetry with the selected washer, dryer, sink, or other appliances.
Bench/Counter Space:
- Opt for a slightly deeper bench top (beyond 600mm) to accommodate appliances and plumbing.
Budget-Friendly Design:
- Consider cost-effective options, such as using an IKEA kitchen sink, to enhance aesthetics without exceeding the budget.
- Incorporate power outlets inside tall cabinets to discreetly charge items like cordless vacuums.
Outdoor Access and Local Regulations:
- Provide outdoor access for easy hanging of clothes on a line if possible.
- Familiarize yourself with local laws regarding waterproofing and drainage.
Luxury Additions:
For those with an additional budget, consider these luxury additions
- Heated flooring for a winter-friendly drying room.
- A heated towel rail for drying delicate items.
- Pull-out or wall-mounted ironing boards for space efficiency.
- Special spaces for pets, such as a hutch or designated area for bowls.
Avoid common oversights by remembering to include
- A tall cupboard for the ironing board, mop, and broom.
- Adequate space/cupboard for buckets, considering their varying heights.
- A hanging rail for delicate items.
- Bench space for folding clothes.
- A decent-sized tub that accommodates buckets.
- Under-bench sorting drawers for dirty clothes.
- Adequate ventilation, with options like a window or exhaust fan.
- A well-designed space for a pleasant laundry experience.
By applying these expert tips and considering often-overlooked details, you can create a laundry room beyond mere functionality, transforming it into a space you genuinely enjoy spending time in. From strategic planning with SketchUp to incorporating luxurious elements, this comprehensive guide ensures your laundry room becomes a well-designed and efficient haven within your home. Remember, a well-thought-out laundry room design can make the tedious chore of laundry a more enjoyable and organized experience.
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