Small laundry rooms can be a design challenge, but with a little creativity and clever use of space, you can transform your laundry room into a functional and stylish haven. Modern design trends focus on minimalist aesthetics, functionality, and creating a sense of calm. This means incorporating clean lines, neutral color palettes, and utilizing every inch of space. We’ve compiled 22 ideas to inspire you, focusing on shelves and modern design styles that are popular in both the US and EU.
Floating Shelves for a Sleek Look
Floating shelves are a modern favorite for laundry rooms. Their sleek, minimalist design helps to create a sense of spaciousness, even in smaller rooms. You can opt for a simple, all-white look for a clean, contemporary feel, or add a touch of personality with woodgrain shelves in warm tones. Consider incorporating metal brackets in black or brass for a modern industrial aesthetic.
In the US, floating shelves in white with sleek metal brackets are particularly popular. This style is clean and modern, complementing minimalist interiors. In the EU, a more eclectic approach is common. Floating shelves in reclaimed wood with rustic metal brackets add a touch of vintage charm. The use of natural materials aligns with the growing trend toward sustainable design in Europe.
Open Shelving for Laundry Essentials
Open shelving offers a practical and visually appealing way to display your laundry essentials. Choose shelves that are deep enough to accommodate laundry baskets, detergent bottles, and other items. You can create a cohesive look by selecting shelves in a material that complements your cabinets or countertops. For example, white open shelves with a woodgrain finish pair well with light-colored cabinetry and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Use baskets or bins to keep items organized and create a visually pleasing display.
In the US, open shelving is often used in conjunction with floating shelves, creating a layered look. Popular color combinations include white shelves with black metal accents or light wood shelves with brass accents. In the EU, open shelving is embraced for its practicality and ability to showcase unique storage solutions. Reclaimed wood shelves with woven baskets add a touch of bohemian charm, while industrial-style metal shelving with wire baskets bring a contemporary edge.
Corner Shelves for Maximizing Space
Corner shelves are a brilliant solution for utilizing often-wasted space in small laundry rooms. They add extra storage without taking up valuable floor space. Choose corner shelves that are designed for the specific angle of your room to ensure a seamless fit. Consider using corner shelves to display decorative items, folded towels, or even houseplants. This can add a personal touch and create a more inviting feel.
In the US, corner shelves are often used in conjunction with a stacked washer and dryer unit. They provide a convenient spot for storing detergent, fabric softener, and other laundry supplies. White corner shelves with chrome accents are a popular choice, complementing the sleek modern aesthetic of many US laundry rooms. In the EU, corner shelves are frequently used in smaller laundry rooms, where space is at a premium. They are often paired with vintage-inspired cabinets or open shelving units, adding a touch of rustic charm. Corner shelves in reclaimed wood with metal brackets are a popular choice, reflecting the growing trend toward sustainable design in Europe.
Wall-Mounted Storage for a Minimalist Feel
Wall-mounted storage solutions are ideal for small laundry rooms as they keep everything off the floor and create a feeling of spaciousness. Consider using wall-mounted baskets, hooks, and shelves to store laundry supplies, ironing boards, and other items. Choose wall-mounted storage that is easy to install and matches the overall design aesthetic of your laundry room. A combination of open and closed storage is an excellent way to create a visually appealing and functional space.
In the US, wall-mounted storage is becoming increasingly popular, especially in small apartments and condos. Wall-mounted laundry baskets, hooks for hanging clothes, and small shelves for storing detergent are all common choices. White or chrome-finished storage solutions blend well with the minimalist design trends prevalent in the US. In the EU, wall-mounted storage is often used in conjunction with built-in cabinets and shelves. Reclaimed wood or metal wall-mounted storage solutions add a touch of vintage charm and complement the eclectic design styles popular in Europe.
Vertical Storage for a Space-Saving Solution
Vertical storage maximizes space and minimizes clutter in small laundry rooms. Consider using vertical storage solutions like a slim laundry cabinet, a tall shelving unit, or a vertical drying rack. These solutions allow you to store more laundry supplies, cleaning products, and even folded clothes without taking up valuable floor space. Choose storage solutions that complement the color scheme and design style of your laundry room.
In the US, vertical storage solutions are often used in conjunction with a stacked washer and dryer unit. Tall white or grey cabinets with sliding doors provide ample storage space for linens, cleaning supplies, and other laundry essentials. In the EU, vertical storage solutions are frequently used in smaller apartments and studios. Slim laundry cabinets in natural wood finishes or vintage metal cabinets add a touch of character and blend seamlessly with the eclectic design styles prevalent in Europe.
Foldable Laundry Baskets for Easy Storage
Foldable laundry baskets are a practical and space-saving solution for small laundry rooms. These baskets can be easily folded away when not in use, making them ideal for smaller spaces. Look for foldable laundry baskets in various colors and materials to match the aesthetic of your laundry room. Consider using foldable baskets for dirty laundry, clean laundry, or even for storing small items like socks and underwear.
In the US, foldable laundry baskets in neutral colors like white, grey, or black are popular choices, as they blend seamlessly with the minimalist design trends prevalent in the country. In the EU, foldable laundry baskets in natural materials like bamboo or wicker are often chosen, adding a touch of rustic charm and complementing the eclectic design styles popular in Europe. Bold colors and patterns are also embraced, adding personality and vibrancy to laundry rooms.
Built-In Shelving for a Seamless Look
Built-in shelving offers a seamless and integrated solution for storage in small laundry rooms. They can be customized to fit your exact needs and create a cohesive look with your cabinetry and countertops. Built-in shelving can be used for storing detergent, fabric softener, towels, and other laundry essentials. Consider incorporating a combination of open and closed shelving to create a visually appealing and functional space.
In the US, built-in shelving is often used in conjunction with custom cabinetry, creating a cohesive and luxurious look. White or light grey built-in shelves with chrome accents are popular choices, complementing the sleek modern aesthetic of many US laundry rooms. In the EU, built-in shelving is frequently used in smaller laundry rooms, where space is at a premium. They are often paired with vintage-inspired cabinets or open shelving units, adding a touch of rustic charm. Built-in shelves in reclaimed wood with metal brackets are a popular choice, reflecting the growing trend toward sustainable design in Europe.
Storage Solutions Under the Sink
The area under the sink is often underutilized in small laundry rooms. Consider utilizing this space with storage solutions like pull-out drawers, shelves, or baskets. These solutions can be used to store cleaning supplies, laundry detergents, or even small appliances like an iron or steamer. Choose storage solutions that are easy to access and complement the overall design aesthetic of your laundry room.
In the US, pull-out drawers under the sink are particularly popular, offering a convenient and organized way to store laundry supplies and cleaning products. White or grey drawers with sleek metal pulls are a common choice, complementing the minimalist design trends prevalent in the country. In the EU, a more eclectic approach is common. Under-sink storage solutions in reclaimed wood or metal with vintage-inspired accents add a touch of character and blend seamlessly with the eclectic design styles popular in Europe.
Ladder Shelf for a Rustic Touch
A ladder shelf can add a rustic and charming touch to your laundry room. These shelves can be used to display folded towels, decorative baskets, or even houseplants. Choose a ladder shelf that is made from natural materials like wood or metal to complement the overall design aesthetic of your laundry room. The ladder shelf can be placed against a wall or used as a room divider to create a sense of separation in a larger laundry space.
In the US, ladder shelves are becoming increasingly popular, adding a touch of rustic charm to modern laundry rooms. They are often used to display decorative items and houseplants, adding a touch of warmth and personality. White or grey ladder shelves with a natural wood finish are a popular choice, complementing the minimalist design trends prevalent in the country. In the EU, ladder shelves are frequently used in smaller laundry rooms, where space is at a premium. They are often paired with vintage-inspired cabinets or open shelving units, adding a touch of rustic charm. Ladder shelves in reclaimed wood or metal with a vintage finish are a popular choice, reflecting the growing trend toward sustainable design in Europe.
Wall-Mounted Drying Rack for Air-Drying
Wall-mounted drying racks are a practical and space-saving solution for air-drying clothes in small laundry rooms. They fold away when not in use, making them ideal for smaller spaces. Choose a wall-mounted drying rack that is made from rust-resistant materials and complements the overall design aesthetic of your laundry room. You can find wall-mounted drying racks in various colors and finishes to match your laundry room décor.
In the US, wall-mounted drying racks are becoming increasingly popular, as people embrace eco-friendly practices. Simple, minimalist designs in white or grey are popular choices, blending seamlessly with the modern aesthetic of many US laundry rooms. In the EU, wall-mounted drying racks are frequently used in smaller apartments and studios, where space is at a premium. They are often made from natural materials like bamboo or wood, adding a touch of rustic charm and reflecting the growing trend toward sustainable design in Europe.
Open Storage Baskets for a Visual Appeal
Open storage baskets can add a touch of visual appeal and functionality to small laundry rooms. These baskets can be used to store laundry supplies, towels, or even small appliances. Choose baskets in various colors and materials to match the aesthetic of your laundry room. Consider using baskets with handles for easy access and to add a decorative touch to your laundry room.
In the US, open storage baskets in neutral colors like white, grey, or black are popular choices, as they blend seamlessly with the minimalist design trends prevalent in the country. In the EU, open storage baskets in natural materials like bamboo or wicker are often chosen, adding a touch of rustic charm and complementing the eclectic design styles popular in Europe. Bold colors and patterns are also embraced, adding personality and vibrancy to laundry rooms.
Under-Shelf Storage for Maximizing Space
Under-shelf storage is an excellent way to maximize space in small laundry rooms. Consider using under-shelf baskets or trays to store smaller items like laundry detergent pods, stain removers, or even small tools. Choose under-shelf storage solutions that are easy to access and complement the overall design aesthetic of your laundry room.
In the US, under-shelf storage solutions are becoming increasingly popular, as people look for ways to maximize space in smaller homes. Simple, minimalist designs in white or grey are popular choices, blending seamlessly with the modern aesthetic of many US laundry rooms. In the EU, under-shelf storage solutions are frequently used in conjunction with built-in cabinets and shelves. Reclaimed wood or metal under-shelf baskets add a touch of vintage charm and complement the eclectic design styles popular in Europe.
Stackable Storage Bins for Organization
Stackable storage bins are a practical and space-saving solution for organizing small laundry rooms. These bins can be used to store laundry supplies, towels, or even folded clothes. Choose stackable storage bins in various sizes and colors to match the aesthetic of your laundry room. Consider using labels to identify the contents of each bin for easy access.
In the US, stackable storage bins in clear plastic are particularly popular, allowing you to easily see the contents of each bin. White or grey stackable storage bins are also common choices, blending seamlessly with the minimalist design trends prevalent in the country. In the EU, stackable storage bins in natural materials like bamboo or wicker are often chosen, adding a touch of rustic charm and complementing the eclectic design styles popular in Europe.
Metal Baskets for a Industrial Look
Metal baskets can add a touch of industrial chic to small laundry rooms. These baskets can be used to store laundry supplies, towels, or even small appliances. Choose metal baskets in various colors and finishes to match the aesthetic of your laundry room. Consider using baskets with wire handles for easy access and to add a decorative touch to your laundry room.
In the US, metal baskets in black or white are popular choices, blending seamlessly with the minimalist design trends prevalent in the country. In the EU, metal baskets in reclaimed or vintage finishes are often chosen, adding a touch of rustic charm and complementing the eclectic design styles popular in Europe.
Wire Baskets for a Sleek and Minimalist Look
Wire baskets are a sleek and minimalist solution for storing laundry supplies in small laundry rooms. These baskets can be used to store laundry detergent, fabric softener, or even small appliances. Choose wire baskets in various sizes and colors to match the aesthetic of your laundry room. Consider using wire baskets with handles for easy access and to add a decorative touch to your laundry room.
In the US, wire baskets in white or chrome are popular choices, blending seamlessly with the minimalist design trends prevalent in the country. In the EU, wire baskets in black or copper are often chosen, adding a touch of industrial chic and complementing the eclectic design styles popular in Europe.