D.I.Y. Made Easy: Smarter laundry layout with extra storage

The laundry: First impressions

When Ricky and Haydn first walked into the laundry they were renovating, it was a mess: brooms and mops cluttered up one corner, baskets of clothes were taking up floor space, and laundry appliances were stacked on top of one another.

There was also no bench space or storage – the owners were using the windowsill to store products – and the laundry had a generally old and dated appearance.

Ricky and Haydn quickly realised that this small laundry needed smarter layout ideas to unlock more usable space. It also needed better functionality, clever laundry storage solutions and a generous benchtop so the floor wasn’t constantly cluttered.

Planning out the space

Ricky and Haydn started by clearing the laundry completely to get accurate measurements, and to properly understand the space.

Rethinking the layout came next – and they decided a more functional laundry design would be an L-shaped configuration, with new cabinets to fix the lack of storage.

Ricky and Haydn also decided to reconfigure the appliances, putting them side by side instead of stacked on top. This would free space above for a bench, shelving and a decent hanging rail – all of which would make a big difference in how the laundry could be used.

Transforming the laundry

Once the new layout was locked in, it was time for a visit to Bunnings to get advice and find out what items and materials they might need to bring their laundry vision to life.

A blind corner cabinet – bought as a flatpack right off the shelf – solved one of the biggest problems: an unused corner. Back on site, the cabinet was quickly assembled with a drill then lifted (you’ll need two people) and slotted neatly into the corner of the laundry, next to an existing sink. Interior shelves and antique white cabinet doors were then installed (the boys used 400mm and 450mm doors) so washing tabs, towels and other cleaning products could be stored inside.

Ricky and Haydn then disconnected the appliances to move them into place side by side, on the other side of the existing sink. Luckily, this was achievable without having to move any plumbing – changes to pipework can add up fast!

To add a continuous benchtop, the duo opted for interior merbau multi-use panels. Back on site, these were cut to size, sanded, oiled and installed over the blind corner cabinet and on top of the side-by-side appliances. Result? Instant benchtops that brought both a warmth to the laundry and a practical area for folding and sorting clothes.

Offcuts from the merbau panel were also used to create a hanging shelf, so nothing was wasted. And because the appliances were now under-bench, a much longer hanging rail could be installed, too – making it much easier to hang items that can’t go in the dryer.

For some final flourishes, Ricky and Haydn refreshed and brightened the space with a lick of paint, some greenery, and some contemporary touches like this natural hyacinth washing basket.

How to update your laundry on a budget

Undertaking a budget laundry makeover can be a lot easier than you think – and be a fast fix for a space that’s not working as it could.

Our tips:

1. Think about the size of the space and what you’d like to change
2. Take measurements and map out a new design on paper
3. Go up! Think wall-mounted drying racks or mounted wall clamps for mops
4. Consider anything that saves space, like a fold-away ironing board
5. If moving appliances, try to do it without moving the plumbing
6. Head to Bunnings for advice, laundry organisation ideas and materials.

Ready to update your laundry

Head to your local store or check out our helpful laundry projects and advice online to get inspiration for your renovation.

Frequently asked questions

How can I make a small laundry more functional?
Focus on improving layout and adding storage. Reconfiguring appliances, adding cabinets and installing a continuous benchtop can make a small laundry more practical and easier to use.

What are the best storage solutions for a small laundry?
Wall-mounted drying racks, cabinets, shelves and hanging rails are great options. Using vertical space helps reduce clutter and keeps everything organised.

Can I renovate a laundry on a budget?
Yes, a budget laundry makeover is achievable using flatpack cabinets, affordable benchtop materials and simple upgrades like paint and storage accessories.

Do I need to move plumbing when updating my laundry layout?
Not always. Keeping appliances near existing plumbing can help avoid extra costs and simplify the renovation process.

What layout works best for small laundries?
An L-shaped layout is a popular choice, as it maximises available space and allows for better integration of appliances, storage and benchtops.