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With all the time we spend washing, scrubbing, ironing and folding, a hardworking and good-looking space in which to do it really isn’t too much to ask for. We’ve rounded up the top 12 features of a laundry you’ll love to spend time in.
If the laundry is too close to bedrooms or entertaining areas, the noise of your appliances may limit the hours you can use them. “Station it near the rear or back-entry mudroom, or if you’re living in a small apartment, consider integrating the laundry into a bathroom or kitchen away from living areas,” says Alisa Fraser of interior design duo Alisa & Lysandra. Where possible, outdoor access directly to the clothesline is ideal.
“A galley layout is our go-to design for a laundry,” suggests interior designer Sarah Jobse of Oak & Orange. “Position your washer/dryer, laundry tub and cupboards or drawers all in a row. If room permits, add in bench space above your cupboards or drawers and don’t forget a generous broom cupboard tall enough to fit the ironing board.”
“This should be one of the first steps when designing your laundry so cabinetry can be built to fit around it,” says Alisa. “Plus, if you opt for concealed appliances, you’ll need to allow for adequate ventilation and an exhaust fan.”
“Prioritise space for big items such as brooms, vacuums and the ironing board,” says Alisa, who also recommends overhead storage options for keeping cleaning agents out of reach in family homes. “And don’t forget to incorporate drawers for small items.”
“We love in-built laundry hampers,” says Sarah, who suggests a deep, multi-sectioned drawer, preferably close to the washing machine. Keep a collapsible or stackable laundry basket in each bedroom so, when not in use, it’s easy to store it out of sight.
“Choosing the right tapware should be based on quality, design, functionality and cost,” says Alisa. “In terms of function, consider pull-out taps for total efficiency when the sink is full and for awkward items like buckets and brushes.”
Whether it’s a cabinetry or paint colour you haven’t been game to use yet, or black tapware that may not work in the kitchen, this is the place to give it a go.
Go for something hardy, water resistant and slip proof underfoot. While floor tiles are one of the best options, they’re not the only one. Vinyl (sheet, planks or tiles) is watertight and hardy enough to take a beating. Hybrid flooring gives the look of timber or laminate, but with a waterproof core that can survive splashes.
Don’t skimp on size when it comes to your laundry sink – you’ll want to be able to handwash bulky items, fill a bucket and have ample room for soaking dirty laundry. If bench space is tight, opt for a skinny version or an under-mounted one.
From glass and VJ panels to tiles of all shapes and sizes, the splashback possibilities are endless. As a laundry is generally quite small, it’s a chance to blow the budget on a finish you love.
Try a single hanging rail mounted under overhead cabinetry, a drying cabinet or a retractable micro clothesline which can roll neatly out of the way. Handy DIYers could even make their own rack!
Layer general, task and ambient lighting for the best effect. “Think track lighting on the ceiling, add task lighting through integrated LED strips underneath cabinetry, and a small illuminated wall sconce to make the space feel more inviting, brighter and to create a pleasing atmosphere,” says Alisa. All wet zones have special regulations for electrical fittings, so always call on a licensed sparkie to do the work.
Tip: Planning a laundry? Ask at the Special Orders Desk about appliance and tap and mixer installation.
Find out how to make a retro clothes airer with our step-by-step guide.
Photo Credit: Cath Muscat, The Palm Co and Flatpax.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
