Designing a laundry room in just one meter of space can seem daunting, but with clever planning and innovative design solutions, it’s possible to create a functional and stylish space. This article explores 28 design ideas for a 1-meter laundry room, incorporating the latest color trends, design styles popular in both the US and EU, and space-saving techniques to maximize functionality without compromising aesthetics.
Vertical Stacked Washer and Dryer
Maximize vertical space by stacking your washer and dryer. Opt for front-loading models to save space and consider a sleek, integrated unit for a seamless look. Popular in both the US and EU, this configuration frees up valuable floor space for storage or folding. Choose white appliances for a clean and modern aesthetic, paired with light gray walls and open shelving made of natural wood for a touch of Scandinavian minimalism. Incorporate baskets for storage and add a pop of color with vibrant green towels or laundry accessories.
Pull-Out Drying Rack
Integrate a pull-out drying rack that discreetly tucks away when not in use. This space-saving solution is perfect for delicate items that can’t be tumble dried. Consider a wall-mounted rack that folds down for extra convenience. Choose a metallic finish, like brushed nickel or black, to complement modern appliances. Incorporate a bold color palette, such as navy blue walls with brass accents, a trend seen in contemporary European design. Add patterned floor tiles to further enhance the visual interest of the space.
Wall-Mounted Folding Table
Install a wall-mounted folding table that can be easily lowered for folding laundry and raised to save space when not needed. This multifunctional solution is ideal for small spaces. Opt for a light-colored wood finish for a Scandinavian feel or a sleek white laminate for a modern look. A popular trend in US laundry room design is incorporating farmhouse elements, such as a shiplap wall behind the folding table. Pair this with black hardware and woven baskets for a rustic yet chic aesthetic. Consider a warm color palette with beige walls and terracotta accents for a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Sliding Barn Door
Replace a traditional swing door with a space-saving sliding barn door. This adds a rustic touch while maximizing floor space. Paint the door a bold color, like teal or deep green, for a statement piece. This trend is popular in both US and EU farmhouse-style homes. Pair the door with white walls and black hardware for a classic look. Consider incorporating open shelving with glass jars for storing laundry supplies, adding a touch of vintage charm. For a more contemporary feel, opt for a sleek metal sliding door with frosted glass panels.
Open Shelving with Baskets
Utilize open shelving to store laundry essentials and add visual interest. Use baskets to corral smaller items and maintain a tidy appearance. Woven baskets bring a natural texture, while metal baskets offer a more industrial vibe. Currently trending in the EU is the use of natural materials like bamboo and rattan. Incorporate these materials into the shelving and baskets for a sustainable and stylish look. Pair with a neutral color palette of whites and grays, adding a pop of color with plants and colorful laundry detergents.
Built-in Ironing Board
Maximize space with a built-in ironing board that folds away into a cabinet or wall. This eliminates the need for a separate ironing board and keeps the laundry room clutter-free. Choose a cabinet that matches the existing cabinetry for a seamless look. White shaker-style cabinets are a popular choice in both the US and EU, offering a timeless and versatile aesthetic. Pair with quartz countertops and stainless steel hardware for a modern feel. Add a patterned backsplash to inject personality and visual interest into the space.
Under-Sink Storage
Utilize the space under the sink with pull-out drawers or shelves to store cleaning supplies and laundry detergents. Opt for custom-built solutions to maximize storage efficiency. A current trend in European design is the use of handleless cabinets for a sleek and minimalist look. Choose a dark color palette for the cabinets, such as charcoal gray or deep blue, and pair with light-colored countertops for contrast. Add integrated lighting under the cabinets to enhance functionality and create a sophisticated ambiance.
Narrow Rolling Cart
Incorporate a narrow rolling cart for extra storage and flexibility. This can be easily moved around the laundry room as needed and tucked away when not in use. Choose a cart with multiple shelves and baskets for organizing different laundry supplies. Metal carts with a black or chrome finish are popular choices for industrial-style laundry rooms, while wooden carts with a natural finish complement a more rustic aesthetic. Add colorful labels to the baskets for a personalized touch and improved organization.
Mirror to Expand the Space
Hang a large mirror on the wall to visually expand the narrow space. This creates the illusion of a larger room and reflects light, making the laundry room feel brighter and more inviting. Choose a frameless mirror for a modern look or a vintage-inspired frame for a more traditional feel. A current trend in both US and EU interior design is incorporating round mirrors. Pair the mirror with wall sconces for added lighting and a touch of elegance. Consider painting the walls a light color, like pale blue or soft green, to further enhance the sense of spaciousness.
Wall-Mounted Laundry Hamper
Install a wall-mounted laundry hamper to save valuable floor space. Opt for a tilting hamper for easy access or a hamper with multiple compartments for sorting laundry. Choose a hamper that complements the overall design aesthetic of the laundry room. Wicker hampers are a popular choice for a natural and rustic look, while canvas hampers offer a more modern and minimalist feel. Consider a bold color for the hamper, such as bright yellow or vibrant orange, to add a pop of color to the space.
Pocket Door for Entry
Install a pocket door to save space and create a seamless transition between the laundry room and adjacent areas. Pocket doors slide into the wall, eliminating the need for a door swing area. This is a popular space-saving solution in both the US and EU. Choose a door that matches the style of the surrounding walls and trim for a cohesive look. Consider a frosted glass pocket door to allow natural light to filter into the laundry room while maintaining privacy.
Glass Jars for Storage
Use clear glass jars to store laundry detergent, fabric softener, and other supplies. This not only keeps things organized but also adds a decorative touch to the space. Label the jars with stylish labels for a cohesive and personalized look. This trend is popular in both US and EU farmhouse and minimalist style homes. Place the jars on open shelving or a countertop for easy access. Choose jars in various sizes and shapes to create visual interest.
Vertical Wallpaper Stripes
Use wallpaper with vertical stripes to create the illusion of higher ceilings and make the narrow space feel more expansive. Choose a bold stripe pattern for a dramatic effect or a subtle stripe for a more understated look. This design technique is popular in European interiors. Pair the striped wallpaper with neutral-colored walls and flooring to balance the visual impact. Consider using wallpaper with a metallic sheen for a touch of glamour.
Ceiling-Mounted Drying Rack
Install a ceiling-mounted drying rack that can be lowered for use and raised to the ceiling when not needed. This is a great space-saving solution for drying clothes in a small laundry room. This type of drying rack is particularly popular in European apartments where space is limited. Choose a rack made of sturdy materials like stainless steel or wood. Pair with a minimalist design aesthetic and a neutral color palette for a clean and modern look.
Hidden Laundry Chute
If possible, incorporate a hidden laundry chute that leads directly to the laundry room. This eliminates the need for carrying laundry baskets up and down stairs and keeps dirty clothes out of sight. This feature is becoming increasingly popular in new construction homes in the US. Conceal the chute opening with a discreet door or panel that blends seamlessly with the surrounding walls. Choose a durable material for the chute, such as stainless steel or PVC, to ensure longevity.
Magnetic Spice Rack for Small Items
Repurpose a magnetic spice rack to store small laundry items like clothespins, safety pins, and measuring spoons. This keeps these items organized and easily accessible. Mount the spice rack on the wall or inside a cabinet door. This creative storage solution is popular in DIY and small space living communities in both the US and EU. Paint the spice rack a bold color to add a pop of personality to the laundry room.
Pegboard Wall Organizer
Install a pegboard wall organizer to create a versatile and customizable storage solution. Use hooks, baskets, and shelves to organize laundry supplies, tools, and other items. Pegboards are a classic organizational tool that is experiencing a resurgence in popularity in both the US and EU. Paint the pegboard a bright color, like sunny yellow or vibrant turquoise, to add a cheerful touch to the laundry room. Consider using different colored pegs and accessories to create a visually appealing and organized display.
Fold-Down Ironing Board Cover
Instead of a built-in ironing board, install a fold-down ironing board cover that attaches to the wall. This provides a sturdy ironing surface when needed without taking up valuable space when not in use. This solution is particularly popular in smaller European apartments where space is at a premium. Choose a cover made of heat-resistant fabric with a fun and stylish pattern. Pair with a wall-mounted iron holder for a complete and compact ironing station.
Slimline Washing Machine
Opt for a slimline washing machine designed specifically for narrow spaces. These machines offer the same functionality as standard washing machines but with a reduced width. Slimline appliances are a growing trend in both the US and EU as urban living spaces become increasingly compact. Choose a washing machine with a sleek and modern design. Pair with a matching slimline dryer for a cohesive look. Consider a front-loading model with a clear door to showcase the washing process.
Over-the-Door Organizer
Utilize an over-the-door organizer to store laundry supplies, cleaning products, and other essentials. This maximizes vertical space and keeps items within easy reach. Over-the-door organizers are a versatile storage solution popular in both the US and EU. Choose an organizer with clear pockets to easily see the contents. Consider using different colored organizers to designate specific items, such as one for cleaning supplies and another for laundry accessories.
Corner Shelving Unit
Maximize corner space with a compact corner shelving unit. This provides additional storage space without taking up valuable floor area. Corner shelving units are a great way to utilize often-overlooked space in small rooms. This is a popular solution in both US and EU small space design. Choose a shelving unit with adjustable shelves to accommodate items of different sizes. Consider using decorative baskets or boxes to conceal clutter and add visual appeal.
Wall-Mounted Soap Dispenser
Install a wall-mounted soap dispenser to free up counter space and create a cleaner look. Choose a dispenser that matches the style of your faucet and other hardware. Wall-mounted dispensers are a popular trend in modern bathrooms and are now making their way into laundry room design in both the US and EU. Opt for a dispenser made of durable materials like stainless steel or chrome for a sleek and modern look. Consider a model with a built-in sensor for hands-free operation.
