A large family brings joy and chaos. One of the areas where chaos can easily spiral out of control is the laundry room. With more laundry to tackle, a large family needs a well-organized and functional laundry space. But instead of just getting by, why not transform your laundry room into a beautiful and inspiring space? Here are 22 design ideas to help you create a laundry room that will not only conquer the chaos but will also be a haven for the whole family.
Open Shelving with Colorful Baskets
Open shelving is a popular trend in laundry rooms, offering a clean and airy aesthetic while maximizing storage. Instead of simply using plastic storage bins, inject some personality with colorful, woven baskets. Think bold, geometric patterns in shades of teal, mustard yellow, and terracotta for a modern, bohemian vibe. In a more traditional setting, opt for natural woven baskets in earth tones or white. For a touch of whimsy, consider adding personalized labels to each basket using stencils or vinyl lettering.
Built-in Folding Station
Every laundry room needs a designated folding station, and for a large family, this is non-negotiable. Consider integrating a built-in folding station with a pull-out counter and shelves. This allows for a seamless flow from washing to folding to putting away. For a modern look, opt for sleek, white cabinetry with a brushed nickel countertop. For a farmhouse feel, consider using reclaimed wood or distressed cabinets paired with a butcher block countertop. Add a pop of color with a bright, patterned rug.
Floating Shelves for Detergent Storage
Elevate your detergent storage with stylish floating shelves. The minimalist design helps to keep the laundry room feeling clean and organized. In Europe, floating shelves are often used in a minimalist, Scandinavian style, opting for simple, white shelves and clear containers. In the US, a more eclectic approach is common, with colorful shelves in shades of sage green, navy blue, or mustard yellow. Consider displaying decorative bottles of laundry detergent and fabric softener for a touch of personality.
Vertical Storage with Pegboard
Maximize wall space with a pegboard wall for hanging laundry baskets, ironing boards, or other essential items. A pegboard offers flexibility and allows you to adapt your storage needs as they change. For a contemporary feel, opt for a sleek black pegboard with minimalist hooks and storage containers. For a more rustic look, choose a natural wood pegboard with vintage-inspired hooks. You can add a personal touch with colorful clothespins or decorative hooks.
Laundry Room Mudroom Combo
If space allows, consider combining your laundry room with a mudroom. This creates a central hub for managing all the family’s coming and going. Use a bench with built-in storage for shoes, backpacks, and coats. A built-in cubby system with baskets can be used for organizing each family member’s belongings. For a modern look, choose a sleek white bench with chrome accents. For a farmhouse feel, consider using a distressed wood bench with rustic metal hardware.
Decorative Laundry Baskets
Don’t be afraid to add a touch of style to your laundry baskets. Instead of boring plastic baskets, opt for decorative wicker baskets, canvas bins, or even repurposed vintage suitcases. These can be a focal point in your laundry room, adding a touch of personality and warmth. Choose colors and patterns that complement your laundry room’s overall design, or create a cohesive look by using the same type of basket for each family member’s laundry. You can even personalize them with monograms or initials.
Industrial Chic Laundry Room
Embrace the industrial chic aesthetic with exposed brick walls, metal shelving, and vintage lighting. Use a distressed wood countertop for a rustic touch and add a vintage-inspired metal cart for extra storage. For a touch of warmth, incorporate natural elements like a potted plant or a wooden laundry hamper. Opt for metal baskets in black or silver for a streamlined look. Consider using Edison bulb light fixtures for a vintage feel.
Bright and Airy Laundry Room
Create a bright and airy laundry room with a light color palette and plenty of natural light. Use white cabinetry, pale blue walls, and a light wood countertop for a clean and spacious feel. Add pops of color with bright accessories like a patterned rug, colorful towels, or a floral bouquet. A large window will allow for natural light to flood the space. You can also add a skylight to further enhance the airy ambiance.
Rustic Farmhouse Laundry Room
Embrace the charm of a rustic farmhouse laundry room with distressed wood accents, vintage hardware, and natural materials. Use a distressed wood countertop and shelves, and incorporate a farmhouse sink for a rustic touch. Add a vintage-inspired metal cart for extra storage and use canvas laundry baskets for a natural, rustic look. Consider adding a window with a view of your garden for a touch of nature.
Minimalist Laundry Room
For a minimalist laundry room, focus on clean lines, neutral colors, and efficient storage solutions. Use white or gray cabinetry with sleek, modern hardware. Keep countertops clutter-free by storing laundry supplies in hidden compartments. Use matching baskets or bins in a neutral color to create a cohesive look. The minimalist aesthetic emphasizes functionality and simplicity, making it a great choice for a busy family.
Modern Farmhouse Laundry Room
Combine the charm of a farmhouse with the clean lines of modern design. Use a white or gray cabinetry with sleek, modern hardware. Incorporate natural wood accents, such as a countertop or a wooden shelf. Use rustic metal accents for a touch of farmhouse charm. Choose a light and airy color palette for a modern feel. This combination creates a cozy yet sophisticated laundry room that is perfect for a large family.
Color-Coded Laundry Baskets
Simplify the laundry process by using color-coded laundry baskets for each family member. This makes it easy for everyone to sort their clothes before washing and eliminates the need to constantly re-sort later. Choose bright, vibrant colors that are easy to distinguish. You can even assign colors to different types of laundry, such as whites, colors, and delicates. This not only helps with organization but also adds a touch of personality to your laundry room.
Hidden Laundry Storage
If you’re short on space, consider creating hidden laundry storage. A built-in cabinet with a sliding door can be used to store laundry supplies, extra baskets, or even a small ironing board. Another option is to use a Murphy bed style design to create a folding station that can be tucked away when not in use. Hidden storage helps to keep your laundry room looking clean and organized, even when you have a lot of laundry to manage.
Laundry Room with a View
If you have the luxury of a laundry room with a window, make the most of it. Create a cozy corner by adding a comfortable chair or bench. Use the window to bring in natural light and enjoy the view. Consider adding a few potted plants to bring in a touch of nature. This will make the laundry room feel more inviting and less like a chore.
Custom Laundry Room Cabinetry
Invest in custom laundry room cabinetry to create a truly unique and functional space. Custom cabinetry allows you to maximize storage space, accommodate specific needs, and create a seamless look. You can choose from a variety of materials, finishes, and hardware to create a design that perfectly complements your home’s style. A well-designed custom cabinetry system can make a significant difference in how efficiently you manage your laundry.
Designated Drying Rack
A designated drying rack is essential for a large family. Instead of hanging clothes on the back of doors or in random areas, create a designated space for air-drying. Consider using a retractable drying rack that can be tucked away when not in use. You can also add a built-in drying rack to your laundry room cabinetry for a seamless look. A dedicated drying rack helps to streamline the laundry process and keeps your laundry room looking neat and tidy.
Laundry Room with a Hamper System
A hamper system can be a game-changer for large families. Instead of having one large hamper for everyone, consider using individual hampers for each family member or for different types of laundry. These hampers can be placed on shelves, in a cubby system, or even mounted on the wall. This makes sorting laundry much easier and helps to keep the laundry room organized.
Laundry Room with a Sink
A sink is a valuable addition to any laundry room, but it’s especially useful for a large family. It can be used for hand-washing delicate items, pre-treating stains, or even for cleaning up messes. A deep sink with a pull-out sprayer is a good option for a laundry room. Make sure to have plenty of counter space around the sink for working on laundry.
