Maximizing space and efficiency is key in any laundry room, especially in smaller homes and apartments. One simple yet brilliant solution that’s gaining popularity in both the US and EU is installing a hanging bar underneath a shelf. This seemingly minor addition provides a dedicated space to air-dry delicate garments, hang freshly ironed clothes, or even store frequently used items. But the possibilities go far beyond mere functionality. With a little creativity, a laundry room hanging bar can become a stylish design element that elevates the entire space. Let’s explore 22 inspiring design ideas to transform your laundry room with this versatile feature.
Rustic Farmhouse Charm
Embrace the warmth of rustic farmhouse style by pairing a reclaimed wood shelf with a black wrought iron hanging bar. Consider painting the walls a soft, creamy white or a pale sage green to enhance the natural tones of the wood. Accessorize with woven baskets for storage, vintage-inspired glass jars for laundry detergent, and a galvanized metal bucket for clothespins. This style emphasizes natural materials and textures, creating a cozy and inviting laundry space.
Modern Minimalist Metallics
For a sleek and contemporary look, opt for a floating shelf made of light-colored wood or white laminate, paired with a brushed nickel or stainless steel hanging bar. Keep the walls a crisp white or a light gray to maintain a clean and uncluttered aesthetic. Incorporate minimalist storage solutions like clear acrylic containers and sleek metal baskets. This style focuses on clean lines, simple forms, and a neutral color palette, reflecting the popular minimalist trend in both the US and EU.
Bold Industrial Chic
Create an edgy industrial vibe by using open shelving made of dark metal piping and a matching black iron hanging bar. Consider a brick veneer accent wall or concrete flooring to further enhance the industrial aesthetic. Use metal storage containers, wire baskets, and Edison bulb lighting to complete the look. This style embodies raw and unfinished elements, popular in urban lofts and modern homes.
Coastal Blue Serenity
Bring the tranquility of the coast into your laundry room with a whitewashed wood shelf and a polished chrome hanging bar. Paint the walls a soft shade of blue or aqua to evoke the feeling of the ocean. Accessorize with seashells, starfish, and woven rope baskets. This style utilizes a calming color palette and natural textures to create a relaxing and refreshing laundry space.
Scandinavian Simplicity
Embrace the clean lines and functionality of Scandinavian design with a light wood shelf and a white or black hanging bar. Keep the walls white or a light gray, and incorporate natural materials like wood, cotton, and linen. This style emphasizes functionality, simplicity, and natural light, creating a bright and airy laundry room.
Bohemian Rhapsody
Infuse your laundry room with bohemian flair by using a dark wood shelf and a brass or copper hanging bar. Incorporate colorful textiles, patterned rugs, and macrame wall hangings. This style embraces eclecticism, vibrant colors, and global influences, creating a unique and personalized space.
Glamorous Gold Accents
Add a touch of luxury to your laundry room with a white or black shelf and a gold hanging bar. Incorporate mirrored accessories, crystal knobs, and plush towels for a glamorous touch. This style emphasizes elegance, sophistication, and opulent details.
Two-Tone Elegance
Create a visually appealing contrast by pairing a dark-colored shelf with a light-colored hanging bar, or vice versa. For instance, a black shelf with a brass bar offers a sophisticated look, while a white shelf with a black bar creates a modern feel.
Hidden Hanging Bar
Maximize space by installing a pull-out hanging bar that can be tucked away when not in use. This is particularly useful in smaller laundry rooms where space is at a premium.
Hanging Bar with Integrated Lighting
Enhance functionality and ambiance by incorporating LED lighting into the underside of the shelf above the hanging bar. This provides task lighting for laundry chores and creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Open Shelving Above and Below
Maximize storage and display options by installing open shelving both above and below the hanging bar. This allows for easy access to laundry essentials and provides a space to showcase decorative items.
Built-in Ironing Board
Optimize efficiency by incorporating a fold-down ironing board into the laundry room design. This eliminates the need for a separate ironing board and saves valuable floor space. Position it near the hanging bar for a seamless workflow.
Vertical Hanging Space
In a narrow laundry room, consider installing a vertical hanging bar that extends from the floor to the ceiling. This maximizes vertical space and provides ample hanging room for longer garments.
Corner Hanging Bar
Utilize corner space effectively by installing a corner hanging bar. This is a great solution for maximizing storage in smaller laundry rooms with awkward layouts.
Multi-Tiered Hanging Bars
Install two or three hanging bars at different heights to accommodate various garment lengths and maximize hanging capacity. This is particularly useful for families with children.
Hanging Bar with Hooks
Add versatility to your hanging bar by incorporating hooks for hanging smaller items like delicates, bags, or cleaning tools. This keeps everything organized and within easy reach.
Fold-Down Drying Rack
Combine the functionality of a hanging bar with a fold-down drying rack. When not in use, the drying rack can be folded up against the wall, saving space and maintaining a clean look.
Wallpaper Accent Wall
Create a focal point in your laundry room by installing a bold wallpaper accent wall behind the hanging bar and shelf. Choose a pattern that complements the overall design style of the room.
Hanging Bar with Shelf Dividers
Keep laundry essentials organized by incorporating shelf dividers above the hanging bar. This creates designated spaces for detergents, fabric softeners, and other laundry supplies.
Chalkboard Paint Backsplash
Add a fun and functional element to your laundry room by painting the wall behind the hanging bar with chalkboard paint. This allows you to write reminders, to-do lists, or even inspirational quotes.
Pegboard Organizer
