A low ceiling in a laundry room can present a challenge when it comes to lighting design, but it’s also an opportunity to get creative and create a space that’s both functional and stylish. The right lighting can transform a cramped, dimly lit laundry room into a bright, inviting space that you’ll actually enjoy spending time in. Here are some design ideas to inspire your next laundry room makeover.
Recessed Lighting with a Twist
Recessed lighting is a popular choice for low ceilings as it doesn’t take up any valuable headroom. To elevate the look beyond the standard white fixtures, consider using a combination of different sized recessed lights for a dramatic effect. In the US, a trend is to use dimmable LED recessed lights in warm white for a cozy and inviting ambiance. In the EU, a more contemporary approach involves using sleek, minimalist recessed lights with cool white LEDs for a modern look. Adding a decorative trim or a unique accent light around the perimeter of the room can further enhance the design.
Pendant Lighting for a Focal Point
Despite the low ceiling, you can still incorporate a statement pendant light. Opt for a smaller, compact pendant with a delicate design, such as a single-bulb globe pendant or a geometric pendant. This adds a touch of sophistication and visual interest to the space. Color and style are key to achieving the desired look. In the US, farmhouse-style pendant lights with distressed finishes and warm wood tones are popular. In the EU, Scandinavian design aesthetics are favored, with white or black pendant lights made of natural materials like wood or bamboo.
Track Lighting for Flexibility
Track lighting offers incredible versatility for illuminating various areas within your laundry room. With low ceilings, opt for a shorter track and use adjustable spotlights to focus light on specific tasks, such as the washing machine, dryer, or folding table. In both the US and EU, black or white track lighting fixtures are preferred, allowing them to blend seamlessly with most interiors. You can also integrate LED bulbs in different colors, like warm white for general lighting and cool white for task lighting, to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere.
Under-Cabinet Lighting for Functionality
Under-cabinet lighting is a must-have for any laundry room, regardless of ceiling height. It provides focused illumination for tasks like sorting laundry, folding clothes, or working with small items. You can choose from a variety of fixtures, such as LED strips, puck lights, or linear fixtures. In the US, a popular trend is to use warm white LED strips with a touch of ambient light to create a cozy and inviting workspace. In the EU, minimalist white LED strips with a contemporary design are often favored, providing a sleek and functional lighting solution.
String Lights for a Cozy Vibe
For a more casual and relaxed feel, consider adding string lights to your laundry room. String lights can create a warm, inviting atmosphere, especially when paired with exposed brick walls or rustic wood accents. In the US, copper or vintage-style string lights are popular, adding a touch of charm and nostalgia. In the EU, modern string lights with white or black cables and LED bulbs are preferred, offering a more minimalist and sleek aesthetic.
Wall Sconces for Ambiance
Wall sconces are a great way to add a touch of sophistication and ambience to your laundry room. They can be placed above a folding table, next to the washing machine, or above a mirror for a more luxurious feel. In the US, farmhouse-style wall sconces with warm-toned finishes are popular, adding a touch of rustic elegance to the space. In the EU, modern wall sconces with minimalist designs and sleek metal finishes are favored, creating a more contemporary look.
Mirror Lighting for a Brighter Space
Adding lighting around a mirror can instantly make your laundry room feel more spacious and brighter. You can use LED strip lights, vanity lights, or even a single pendant light for a minimalist look. In the US, warm white LED strip lights are commonly used to create a cozy and inviting ambiance. In the EU, sleek, minimalist vanity lights with cool white LEDs are often preferred, adding a modern touch to the space.
Accent Lighting for a Pop of Color
Introduce a playful element to your laundry room by incorporating accent lights that add a splash of color. You can use LED bulbs in various colors, such as blue, green, or pink, to highlight specific features, such as a laundry basket or a shelving unit. In the US, pastel colors are popular, adding a touch of whimsical charm to the space. In the EU, bold, saturated colors are favored, adding a more dramatic and contemporary feel.
Ceiling Fan with Light
For a functional and stylish solution, opt for a ceiling fan with a light fixture. This provides both air circulation and illumination in a single fixture, saving valuable space in a low-ceiling laundry room. In the US, brushed nickel or white ceiling fans with warm white lights are often chosen for a classic and timeless look. In the EU, sleek, minimalist ceiling fans with integrated LED lights are favored, adding a modern touch to the space.
LED Strips Under Shelves
Create a clean and modern look by installing LED strips under shelves. This provides task lighting for folding laundry and a warm, inviting ambiance. In the US, warm white LED strips are popular, adding a cozy feel to the space. In the EU, cool white LED strips are often preferred, creating a more contemporary and minimalist look.
Skylight for Natural Light
If your laundry room has the potential for a skylight, it can dramatically transform the space. A skylight brings in natural light, making the room feel brighter and more open. In both the US and EU, skylights with frosted glass or diffusers are preferred to create a soft, diffused light that’s not harsh on the eyes.
Glass Block Wall for Diffused Light
For a unique and stylish look, consider incorporating a glass block wall into your laundry room. Glass blocks allow natural light to filter through while still providing privacy. In the US, frosted or textured glass blocks are popular, adding a modern touch to the space. In the EU, clear glass blocks are often preferred, creating a more contemporary and minimalist look.
Open Shelving with Lighting
Open shelving is a popular choice for laundry rooms, as it allows for easy access to supplies and creates a sense of openness. By integrating LED lights under the shelves, you can create a modern and stylish look while providing functional task lighting. In the US, white or wood shelves with warm white LED lights are often chosen for a clean and inviting look. In the EU, black or gray shelves with cool white LED lights are favored, creating a more minimalist and contemporary design.
Wall-Mounted Laundry Basket with Lighting
A wall-mounted laundry basket is a space-saving solution for small laundry rooms. By adding a built-in light fixture, you can illuminate the basket and create a functional and stylish accent. In the US, white or gray laundry baskets with warm white LED lights are commonly chosen for a clean and inviting look. In the EU, black or stainless steel laundry baskets with cool white LED lights are often favored, creating a more minimalist and contemporary design.
Color-Changing LED Strip Lights
For a playful and customizable touch, install color-changing LED strip lights. You can switch between different colors to create a unique ambiance for each laundry day. In the US, pastel colors are popular, adding a touch of whimsy to the space. In the EU, bold, saturated colors are favored, adding a more dramatic and contemporary feel.
Integrated LED Lights in Cabinets
For a seamless and modern look, integrate LED lights into your cabinets. This provides ample task lighting for working within the cabinets and adds a sophisticated touch to the space. In the US, warm white LED lights are popular for a cozy and inviting ambiance. In the EU, cool white LED lights are often preferred, creating a more minimalist and contemporary look.
Motion-Activated Lighting
For a hands-free and convenient solution, install motion-activated lighting. This turns on automatically when you enter the laundry room, providing instant illumination. In the US, warm white LED lights are commonly chosen for a cozy and inviting ambiance. In the EU, cool white LED lights are often preferred, creating a more minimalist and contemporary look.
