Maximizing space in a small laundry room can be a challenge, but with clever shelving solutions, you can transform this often-overlooked area into a functional and stylish space. DIY shelving offers the flexibility to customize the design to your exact needs and preferences, allowing you to create a laundry room that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Whether you prefer a minimalist, rustic, or modern aesthetic, there’s a DIY shelving idea that can perfectly complement your small laundry room.
Open Shelving with Woven Baskets
Open shelving provides a versatile and visually appealing storage solution for small laundry rooms. Utilizing natural woven baskets adds texture and warmth to the space, while offering a stylish way to conceal laundry supplies and keep the area organized. Consider a combination of white painted shelves with seagrass baskets for a fresh, coastal vibe. This pairs well with light grey walls and natural wood flooring, reflecting current Scandinavian design trends popular in both the US and EU. For a bolder look, opt for dark stained shelves and black woven baskets, creating a dramatic contrast against a lighter backdrop. This modern industrial aesthetic remains popular in urban settings.
Floating Shelves with Glass Jars
Floating shelves are a space-saving solution that adds a contemporary touch to any small laundry room. Using clear glass jars to store detergent, fabric softener, and other laundry essentials creates a clean and organized look. A minimalist color palette of white shelves and clear jars against a soft grey wall creates a sense of calm and order, reflecting the minimalist trend prevalent in both the US and EU. You can incorporate pops of color with colorful labels or by adding small potted plants to the shelves. For a more rustic farmhouse feel, consider using reclaimed wood for the shelves and vintage-inspired glass jars with decorative labels.
Corner Shelves with Metal Brackets
Maximize every inch of space in your small laundry room with corner shelves. Industrial-style metal brackets provide sturdy support and add a touch of modern flair. Opt for black metal brackets and dark stained wooden shelves for a bold statement, complementing the industrial trend. This pairs well with exposed brick or concrete walls, popular in loft-style apartments. Alternatively, choose white or brushed nickel brackets and light-colored shelves for a brighter, more airy feel. This complements the Scandinavian trend and works well with pastel wall colors, adding a touch of softness to the space. Adding small, colorful storage bins to the shelves provides further organization and visual interest.
Ladder Shelving with Hanging Rods
A leaning ladder shelf offers a unique and space-saving storage solution. Incorporate hanging rods for drying delicate garments or storing ironing boards. A natural wood ladder shelf with black metal rods creates a visually appealing contrast and adds a touch of rustic charm. This complements the farmhouse trend popular in the US. For a more modern look, paint the ladder shelf a bold color, like teal or navy blue, and use chrome or brass hanging rods. This adds a pop of color and complements contemporary design trends seen in European interiors. Hang small canvas bags from the rods for additional storage of smaller items.
Over-the-Toilet Shelving
Utilize the often-underused space above the toilet with custom shelving. This is a great way to add storage without sacrificing valuable floor space. White shelves with chrome accents create a clean and modern look, complementing contemporary bathroom design trends. Incorporate wicker baskets or fabric bins to conceal toiletries and cleaning supplies. For a more rustic aesthetic, consider using reclaimed wood shelves and black metal brackets. This creates a visually interesting contrast and complements the farmhouse trend. Consider adding a small potted plant or decorative items to the shelves to add personality to the space.
Built-in Niche Shelving
If you’re willing to undertake a slightly more involved DIY project, consider creating a built-in niche in your laundry room wall. This provides a recessed storage area that maximizes space and adds architectural interest. Paint the niche a contrasting color to the wall to create a focal point. For example, a navy blue niche against a white wall creates a dramatic and stylish look, reflecting current color trends. Alternatively, a soft pastel green niche against a light grey wall creates a calming and sophisticated atmosphere, aligning with Scandinavian design principles. Install adjustable shelves within the niche to customize the storage to your specific needs.
Under-the-Sink Shelving
Maximize the space under your laundry room sink with pull-out shelves or drawers. This provides easy access to cleaning supplies and keeps the area organized. White pull-out shelves with chrome handles create a clean and modern look, complementing contemporary kitchen and bathroom design trends. For a more rustic farmhouse feel, consider using wooden drawers with vintage-style handles. This adds warmth and character to the space. You can further organize items within the shelves by using small containers or dividers.
Vertical Shelving with Pegboard Back
Maximize vertical space with tall, narrow shelving units. Adding a pegboard backing allows for customizable storage with hooks and baskets, perfect for hanging cleaning tools and smaller items. A white shelving unit with a natural wood pegboard back creates a visually appealing contrast and complements the Scandinavian trend. Use colorful hooks and baskets to add personality and organization to the space. For a more industrial look, opt for a black metal shelving unit with a black pegboard back. This creates a bold statement and provides ample storage for all your laundry essentials.
Recessed Shelving with LED Lighting
Create a luxurious and functional laundry room with recessed shelving and integrated LED lighting. This adds a modern and sophisticated touch to the space. White shelves with warm white LED lighting create a clean and inviting atmosphere. This complements minimalist design trends and enhances the functionality of the space. Consider using glass shelves to further enhance the lighting effect. For a more dramatic look, use black shelves with cool white LED lighting. This creates a contemporary and stylish ambiance, reflecting current lighting trends in both the US and EU.
Windowsill Shelving
Extend your windowsill to create a functional shelving area. This provides a space for plants, decorative items, and small storage containers. A white windowsill shelf with potted herbs creates a fresh and inviting atmosphere, reflecting the biophilic design trend. For a more rustic look, consider using reclaimed wood for the shelf and displaying vintage glass bottles or jars. This adds character and complements the farmhouse aesthetic. Ensure the shelf is deep enough to accommodate your chosen items without obstructing the window opening.
Hanging Shelf with Macrame Detail
Add a bohemian touch to your laundry room with a hanging shelf featuring macrame details. This adds texture and visual interest to the space. A natural wood shelf with a white macrame hanger creates a light and airy feel, complementing the boho trend popular in both the US and EU. Use the shelf to display small potted plants, candles, or decorative items. For a more colorful look, incorporate brightly colored macrame cords. This adds a playful touch and complements eclectic design styles.
