A narrow laundry room doesn’t have to be a design challenge. In fact, with a little creativity, it can become a stylish and functional space. Whether you prefer a minimalist aesthetic or a bold statement, these 25 design ideas will inspire you to transform your narrow laundry room into a haven of efficiency and beauty, incorporating the latest design trends from both the US and EU.
Stackable Washer and Dryer with Open Shelving
Maximize vertical space by opting for a stackable washer and dryer set. Install open shelving above the units to store laundry essentials, detergents, and decorative items. Consider using sleek, white shelving against a soft grey wall for a minimalist Scandinavian look, a popular trend in both the US and EU. Adding woven baskets for storage brings in texture and warmth. Incorporating small potted plants or succulents can add a touch of life and color to the space.
Vertical Shiplap Accent Wall
Create a focal point by installing vertical shiplap on one wall. This not only adds texture and visual interest but also emphasizes the height of the room, making it feel less narrow. Paint the shiplap a bright white and pair it with dark grey or navy blue cabinets for a modern farmhouse vibe, a continuing trend in the US. Brass hardware adds a touch of elegance and warmth. Consider adding a slim, vertical mirror to further enhance the illusion of space.
Pull-Out Drying Rack and Ironing Board
Optimize functionality in a narrow laundry room with space-saving solutions like a pull-out drying rack and a built-in ironing board. These can be neatly tucked away when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space. A popular trend in European laundry rooms is incorporating sleek, integrated cabinetry that hides these features seamlessly. Opt for light-colored cabinets with a high-gloss finish to reflect light and create a sense of spaciousness. Pair with stainless steel appliances for a modern and clean aesthetic.
Gallery Wall Above the Washer and Dryer
Personalize your laundry room by creating a gallery wall above the washer and dryer. Display framed artwork, family photos, or even vintage laundry signs to add character and visual appeal. Lean into the maximalist trend seen emerging in the EU by incorporating a mix of frame styles and sizes. Use a cohesive color palette, like shades of blue and green, to tie the gallery wall together. Consider adding a small shelf below the gallery wall for displaying decorative objects and adding another layer of visual interest.
Sliding Barn Door for Concealment
If your laundry room has a doorway, consider installing a sliding barn door to conceal the space when not in use. Barn doors add a touch of rustic charm, aligning with the ongoing farmhouse trend in the US. Choose a door made from reclaimed wood for a more authentic look, or opt for a painted finish to match your existing decor. Pair with black hardware for a modern farmhouse feel or opt for brushed nickel for a more classic aesthetic.
Built-in Hampers and Storage
Maximize space and efficiency by incorporating built-in hampers and storage solutions. Design custom cabinets with designated compartments for sorting laundry and storing detergents. Use a combination of closed cabinets and open shelving for a balanced look. Light grey cabinets with white countertops and backsplash create a clean and airy feel, popular in Scandinavian design seen in both the US and EU. Add woven baskets to open shelves for a touch of texture and warmth.
Patterned Wallpaper for a Bold Statement
Add personality to your narrow laundry room with bold patterned wallpaper. Choose a large-scale print to create a focal point and distract from the narrow dimensions of the room. Floral patterns are trending in both the US and EU, bringing a touch of nature indoors. Balance the bold wallpaper with neutral-colored cabinets and flooring. Consider a dark green or navy blue wallpaper with white or light grey accents.
Floating Shelves with Under-Shelf Lighting
Install floating shelves above the washer and dryer to maximize storage space. Add under-shelf lighting to illuminate the area and create a warm and inviting ambiance. This adds both functionality and a modern touch, reflecting current trends in minimalist design. White or light wood shelves against a darker wall create a striking contrast. Consider using LED strip lights for a sleek and energy-efficient option.
Glass Front Cabinets for Display
Showcase your neatly organized laundry supplies and decorative items by opting for glass-front cabinets. This adds a touch of elegance and allows you to personalize the space. Glass-front cabinets are a classic design element that remains popular. Pair them with shaker style cabinets in a soft grey or blue for a timeless look. Consider adding interior cabinet lighting to highlight your displayed items.
Bold Color Blocking
Create a visually striking laundry room by using bold color blocking techniques. Paint one wall a vibrant color, like teal or mustard yellow, and pair it with neutral colors on the remaining walls and cabinets. This technique is a popular trend in contemporary design, seen in both the US and EU. Consider using geometric shapes to further enhance the color blocking effect. Add black or white accents to ground the bold colors.
Mirrored Backsplash to Expand the Space
Visually expand your narrow laundry room by installing a mirrored backsplash. This reflects light and creates an illusion of depth, making the space feel larger. Mirrored backsplashes are a glamorous and timeless design element. Pair them with white or light grey cabinets for a clean and modern look. Consider using antiqued mirror for a more vintage feel.
Pendant Lighting for a Statement Piece
Add a touch of style and personality to your laundry room with a statement pendant light fixture. Choose a fixture that complements your overall design aesthetic, whether it’s modern, industrial, or farmhouse. Oversized pendant lights are a popular trend in kitchen and laundry room design. Consider a brass or black metal fixture with a clear glass shade for a modern look. Install the pendant light centered above the laundry area for optimal illumination.
Narrow Rolling Cart for Extra Storage
Utilize a narrow rolling cart to add extra storage space in your laundry room. This versatile piece can be easily moved around as needed and tucked away when not in use. Rolling carts are a practical and stylish solution for small spaces. Choose a cart with multiple shelves or drawers to maximize storage capacity. Look for a cart made from metal or wood with a durable finish. Consider a cart with a butcher block top for added functionality.
Wall-Mounted Folding Table
Maximize functionality in your narrow laundry room by installing a wall-mounted folding table. This provides a dedicated space for folding clothes without taking up valuable floor space. Wall-mounted folding tables are a space-saving solution that’s gaining popularity in both the US and EU. Choose a table that folds flat against the wall when not in use. Consider a table made from wood or laminate with a durable finish. Install the table at a comfortable height for folding clothes.
Pocket Door for Seamless Entryway
If space is truly limited, consider replacing a traditional swing door with a pocket door. This type of door slides into the wall, eliminating the need for door swing clearance and maximizing floor space. Pocket doors are a classic architectural detail that’s making a comeback. They offer a clean and minimalist look that aligns with current design trends. Choose a door that matches your existing interior doors for a cohesive look.
Maximize Natural Light with a Window Treatment
If your laundry room has a window, maximize natural light by choosing a sheer or light-filtering window treatment. This will brighten up the space and make it feel less claustrophobic. Roman shades or roller blinds in a light color are a good choice. These offer privacy while still allowing natural light to filter through. Consider a window treatment with a subtle pattern or texture to add visual interest.
Use a Monochromatic Color Scheme
Create a sense of calm and sophistication in your narrow laundry room by using a monochromatic color scheme. Choose shades of a single color, such as grey, blue, or green, for the walls, cabinets, and accessories. Monochromatic color schemes are a timeless design choice that creates a cohesive and harmonious look. Vary the shades of the chosen color to add depth and dimension to the space. Consider using a lighter shade for the walls and darker shades for the cabinets and accessories.
