Creating a functional and stylish laundry room, even within the confines of a small closet, is a challenge many homeowners face. However, with clever design choices and innovative storage solutions, a small laundry closet can be transformed into an efficient and aesthetically pleasing space. This article explores various design ideas for small laundry room closets, focusing on color combinations, design styles, and the latest trends in the US and EU.
Stacked Washer and Dryer with Open Shelving
Maximize vertical space by stacking your washer and dryer. Install open shelving above the appliances for detergent, fabric softener, and folded towels. Consider using sleek white shelves against a soft gray wall for a minimalist Scandinavian vibe. Incorporate woven baskets for a touch of natural texture and warmth. This layout is popular in both the US and EU for its clean and functional aesthetic.
Hidden Laundry Closet with Bi-Fold Doors
Conceal your laundry area completely with bi-fold doors. Paint the doors the same color as the surrounding walls for a seamless look. Opt for neutral colors like greige or beige for a calming effect. Inside the closet, utilize every inch of space with pull-out drawers for laundry supplies and a retractable ironing board. This hidden approach is a growing trend in European apartments where space is at a premium.
Barn Door Laundry Closet
Add a touch of rustic charm with a sliding barn door to enclose your laundry closet. Choose a reclaimed wood door for a more authentic look or a painted white door for a modern farmhouse feel. Inside, consider a bold color like navy blue for the walls and incorporate brass hardware for a touch of elegance. This style blends seamlessly with current US design trends favoring natural materials and farmhouse aesthetics.
Wallpaper Feature Wall
Create a visual focal point within the small laundry closet by incorporating a bold wallpaper on the back wall. Geometric patterns in vibrant colors like teal and coral are trending in both the US and EU. Pair the wallpaper with white or light gray cabinetry and shelving to balance the boldness. Consider adding a small pendant light to further highlight the feature wall.
Built-in Ironing Board and Drying Rack
Optimize functionality with a built-in ironing board that folds down from the wall or cabinet. Incorporate a retractable drying rack above for air-drying delicate garments. Use a light and airy color palette like pastel green and white to create a sense of spaciousness. This practical and space-saving solution is popular in compact European homes.
Glass Door Cabinets
Showcase neatly organized laundry supplies and add a touch of elegance with glass-front cabinets. Choose frosted glass for a more subtle look or clear glass for a modern display. Opt for sleek black cabinets and stainless steel hardware for a contemporary feel popular in urban US apartments. This style allows for easy visibility of supplies while maintaining a clean and organized appearance.
Under-Shelf Laundry Basket Pull-Outs
Maximize storage space beneath the countertop or shelving by installing pull-out baskets for sorting laundry. Use wicker baskets for a natural aesthetic or metal baskets for a more industrial look. Consider painting the closet a bold color like emerald green and adding contrasting white trim for a vibrant and stylish space. This practical storage solution is gaining popularity in both US and EU homes.
Vertical Laundry Hamper
Optimize floor space with a tall, narrow laundry hamper that fits snugly in a corner or between appliances. Choose a hamper with multiple compartments for sorting clothes. A sleek stainless steel hamper complements a modern aesthetic while a canvas hamper adds a touch of casual charm. This space-saving solution is essential for small laundry closets.
Floating Shelves with Backsplash Tile
Install floating shelves above the washer and dryer for storage and visual interest. Add a stylish backsplash tile behind the shelves to create a focal point. Consider using subway tile in a classic white or a more contemporary color like mint green. This combination of functionality and style is a popular trend in both US and EU kitchen and laundry designs.
Pocket Door for Space Saving
Replace a traditional swinging door with a pocket door that slides into the wall, freeing up valuable floor space. Paint the door the same color as the adjacent wall for a seamless look. Inside the closet, consider using a bright and cheerful color like sunny yellow to brighten the space. Pocket doors are a classic space-saving solution favored in smaller homes.
Maximize Corner Space with a Corner Shelf Unit
Utilize often-overlooked corner space with a custom-built or freestanding corner shelf unit. This provides extra storage for laundry supplies and décor. Consider using open shelves for a light and airy feel or closed cabinets for a more streamlined look. White or light gray shelving units will enhance the sense of space in a small closet.
Laundry Room Pegboard Wall
Install a pegboard wall to create a versatile and customizable storage solution. Hang baskets, hooks, and shelves to organize laundry essentials and tools. Paint the pegboard a bold color like deep red or keep it a classic white. This flexible storage solution is a growing trend in US laundry room designs.
Slim Rolling Cart for Extra Storage
Add a slim rolling cart between the washer and dryer or in a narrow space for extra storage. Use the cart to hold detergents, cleaning supplies, or folded towels. Choose a cart with metal shelves for a modern look or a wooden cart for a warmer aesthetic. This versatile solution is ideal for maximizing space in tight areas.
Over-the-Door Drying Rack
Hang an over-the-door drying rack on the inside of the closet door for additional drying space. Choose a rack that folds flat when not in use. This simple and affordable solution is perfect for small laundry closets lacking space for a larger drying rack.
Wall-Mounted Fold-Down Table
Install a wall-mounted table that folds down when needed for folding clothes or as a workspace. Choose a table that matches the overall design aesthetic of the laundry room. This space-saving solution is a popular choice for maximizing functionality in compact spaces.
Mirrored Closet Doors
Create the illusion of a larger space by installing mirrored closet doors. This not only reflects light but also provides a convenient spot for checking your appearance. Mirrored doors are a classic design trick for enhancing small spaces.
Boldly Colored Appliances
Make a statement with brightly colored appliances like a red washer or a blue dryer. This unexpected pop of color can transform a small laundry closet into a vibrant and stylish space. Pair the bold appliances with neutral walls and simple décor to avoid overwhelming the space.
Use a Laundry Pedestal for Elevated Storage
Place your washer and dryer on a pedestal to create additional storage space underneath. This elevated platform also makes loading and unloading the machines easier. Use the space below for storing laundry baskets, detergents, and other essentials.
