Maximizing space and functionality in a laundry room is a top priority for many homeowners, especially in smaller homes or apartments. Installing shelving above the washer and dryer offers a brilliant solution for storage and organization. But beyond the practical benefits, shelving also presents an opportunity to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your laundry room. From sleek and modern to rustic and charming, the design possibilities are endless. This article explores 20 inspiring design ideas for laundry room shelving over the washer, incorporating current color trends, diverse design styles, and innovative storage solutions popular in both the US and EU.
Open Shelving with Woven Baskets
Embrace a touch of rustic charm with open shelving crafted from reclaimed wood, stained in a warm honey hue. Pair this with woven seagrass baskets in varying sizes to store laundry essentials like detergent, dryer sheets, and clothespins. The natural texture of the baskets against the wood creates a visually appealing contrast and adds warmth to the space. This style aligns with the growing trend of incorporating natural materials and textures into home design, prevalent in both the US and EU.
Sleek White Floating Shelves with Chrome Accents
For a modern and minimalist aesthetic, opt for sleek white floating shelves. These shelves provide a clean and streamlined look, making the space feel brighter and more open. Incorporate chrome hardware and accessories, such as sleek metal laundry baskets and a chrome drying rack, to enhance the contemporary feel. The monochrome color scheme with metallic accents is a timeless design choice that remains popular in both the US and EU, reflecting a desire for clean lines and uncluttered spaces.
Industrial Metal and Wood Shelving
Combine the rugged appeal of metal with the warmth of wood for an industrial-inspired laundry room. Install open shelves with black metal brackets and wooden planks stained a dark walnut color. Use vintage-style metal containers and wire baskets for storage, adding to the industrial aesthetic. This style reflects the ongoing popularity of industrial design, particularly in urban lofts and modern homes in both the US and EU.
Glass Shelves with Backlit LED Lighting
Create a luxurious and modern ambiance with glass shelves and integrated LED backlighting. The glass shelves provide a sense of airiness and allow light to penetrate the space, while the backlighting adds a touch of drama and highlights displayed items. This design element is a growing trend in high-end kitchens and bathrooms and is now making its way into laundry room design in both the US and EU.
Built-in Cabinets with Shaker Doors
For a classic and timeless look, consider built-in cabinets with Shaker-style doors painted in a soft, muted green. This provides ample concealed storage while adding a touch of elegance to the laundry room. The Shaker style, with its simple lines and understated elegance, remains a popular choice for cabinetry in both the US and EU.
Open Shelving with Colorful Storage Bins
Brighten up your laundry room with open shelving and vibrant storage bins. Choose a neutral shelf color like white or gray and then incorporate bins in a range of bold colors like turquoise, yellow, and coral. This adds a playful and energetic vibe to the space, reflecting the trend of using color to personalize and invigorate interiors.
Rustic Farmhouse Style with Sliding Barn Doors
Embrace the charm of farmhouse style with open shelving made from reclaimed wood and incorporating sliding barn doors to conceal the washer and dryer. Use vintage glass jars and enamelware containers for storage, enhancing the rustic aesthetic. Farmhouse style remains incredibly popular in the US, particularly in rural areas and suburban homes.
Modern Black and White with Geometric Patterns
Create a bold and graphic statement with black and white shelving and geometric patterned wallpaper or tile. Incorporate black metal shelving brackets and white shelves, and add patterned storage boxes and baskets to complete the look. Geometric patterns are a key trend in contemporary design, adding visual interest and a touch of dynamism to the space.
Coastal Inspired Shelving with Blue and White Accents
Bring the serenity of the coast into your laundry room with open shelving painted in a soft, watery blue. Decorate with whitewashed wicker baskets, seashells, and nautical-themed accessories. This style evokes a sense of relaxation and tranquility, reflecting the popularity of coastal and nautical themes in interior design, particularly in coastal regions of the US and EU.
Scandinavian Minimalism with Light Wood and White
Embrace the simplicity of Scandinavian design with light wood shelves and white walls. Keep the décor minimal and functional, focusing on clean lines and natural materials. This style emphasizes functionality and a sense of calm, reflecting the enduring popularity of Scandinavian minimalism in both the US and EU.
Bold and Bright with Yellow and Gray
Infuse your laundry room with energy and optimism by pairing bright yellow shelves with a cool gray background. This vibrant color combination creates a cheerful and inviting space. Yellow is a trending color in interior design, bringing a sense of warmth and happiness to the home.
Luxury Marble Shelving with Gold Accents
Create a luxurious and sophisticated laundry room with marble shelves and gold hardware. The marble adds a touch of elegance and opulence, while the gold accents enhance the glamorous feel. This high-end look reflects a growing trend towards incorporating luxurious materials into traditionally utilitarian spaces.
Bohemian Chic with Macrame and Plants
Embrace a bohemian aesthetic with open shelving adorned with macrame wall hangings and trailing plants. Use woven baskets and colorful textiles to add texture and visual interest. This style reflects the ongoing popularity of bohemian design, with its emphasis on natural materials, handcrafted items, and a relaxed, eclectic vibe.
Mid-Century Modern with Walnut and Brass
Capture the essence of Mid-Century Modern design with walnut shelves and brass hardware. Incorporate geometric patterns and vintage-inspired accessories to complete the look. This classic style remains popular, particularly in homes with Mid-Century architecture.
French Country with Distressed Wood and Lavender
Create a charming and romantic laundry room with distressed wood shelves painted in a soft lavender hue. Decorate with vintage-inspired linens and floral arrangements. This style evokes a sense of rustic elegance, reflecting the enduring appeal of French Country design.
Art Deco Inspired with Black and Gold
Embrace the glamour of Art Deco with black lacquer shelves and gold accents. Incorporate geometric patterns and mirrored surfaces to enhance the luxurious feel. This sophisticated style is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, particularly in urban environments.
Eclectic Mix of Colors and Textures
Create a unique and personalized laundry room by combining different colors, textures, and styles. Mix and match open shelving with closed cabinets, incorporate patterned wallpaper, and add a variety of storage containers in different materials and colors. Eclectic design allows for creative expression and individuality.
Minimalist Concrete Shelving
For a truly minimalist and industrial look, consider concrete shelves. The raw and unfinished look of concrete adds a unique and edgy element to the space. This style is popular in modern lofts and industrial-style homes.
Hidden Laundry Room with Pocket Doors and Shelving
Conceal your laundry area completely by incorporating it into a hallway or closet with pocket doors. Install shelving above the washer and dryer to maximize storage within the hidden space. This is a great solution for smaller homes or open-plan living spaces where concealing the laundry area is desired.
