Laundry Renovations | Home Beautiful https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/renovation-ideas/laundry/ Homes, Bathroom, Kitchen & Outdoor Mon, 06 Jan 2025 03:41:01 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.4 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/cropped-HBFavIcon2024.png Laundry Renovations | Home Beautiful https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/renovation-ideas/laundry/ 32 32 221866170 How to renovate a laundry for under $10K https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/renovation-ideas/laundry/how-to-renovate-a-laundry-for-under-10k/ Mon, 06 Jan 2025 03:38:36 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1262424 Save money and time as our experts help you create a more functional and beautiful laundry for under 10K.

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Dismissed as the site of dreaded chores, laundries are rarely a person’s favourite room. In fact, they’re oft forgot and overlooked but that’s why renovating to increase functionality is important. We spoke to builder and Front Porch Properties founder Rachael Turner and John Harrison, Kaboodle Kitchen marketing manager, for their tips on managing a laundry reno for less than $10K.

A laundry renovation for under 10K.
Builder and expert DIY renovator Alicia wanted “more cottage and less coastal” in her Melbourne home, which took style notes from modern farmhouses. The warm and rustic ‘Hickory maple’ laminate from Kaboodle Kitchen was picked for the benchtop to ensure longevity in this hardworking wet area. Styling: Annalese Hay, Photography: Kate Enno

Builder and content creator Alicia, her electrician husband Ian, and the couple’s two young daughters and son.
Location? North-east Melbourne.
Original laundry? A new build laundry with no bench space and cabinetry that had been selected only because it was available during Covid lockdowns.
Timeframe? Two weeks.

The works: “It was about creating an English cottage vibe with colour drenching and a timber benchtop. By reworking it, I actually doubled storage and also gained work space.”

Who lives here?

Cabinetry

What are the options? If you are content with the layout and size of your cabinetry, then simply replacing the doors will enhance the look of the space without significantly hurting your wallet. Otherwise, Rachael says, “Opt for lower-cost cabinetry, such as laminate or even flat pack.”

Installing open shelves will also reduce costs. “Eliminating overhead cabinets also helps to make the room feel less top heavy and overbearing,” she adds. John agrees with this, while stressing the importance of ensuring you plan for all of your cleaning and ironing supplies, which can be bulky. “Consider adding practical features like pull-out hampers and tall cabinets to neatly tuck away vacuums, mops, and brooms,” he suggests. To maximise storage, try internal solutions such as Kaboodle Kitchen base mount laundry hampers.

Estimated cost: $750–$1500 for typical flat pack options.

Benchtops & splashbacks

What are the options? To update a tiled splashback, save money by simply painting instead of replacing. For benchtops, consider laminate or timber. These more budget-friendly materials are perfect in laundries as they are tucked away, rather than on show like a kitchen. John suggests timber for warmth, or “water-resistant options such as laminate.”

Estimated cost: $50–$800.

Appliances

What are the options? We love front-load washers and dryers, as they allow you to maximise bench space, making everyday laundry tasks more convenient in one dedicated area,” says John. While Rachael advises that some people prefer stacking appliances, or installing them up high to avoid bending down, placing front loaders side by side does allow for a benchtop to run seamlessly over the top

Estimated cost: $500–$1500 per appliance.

Ventilation

What are the options? Natural ventilation is important, especially in Australian climates. “Most budget dryers require ducted ventilation, so if your laundry doesn’t have a window, an exhaust fan will be necessary,” advises Rachael. “A standard ventilation fan is a cost-effective choice, with plenty of upgrade options available, such as high-extraction models.”

Estimated cost: $50–$800.

Hardware & tapware

What are the options?Tapware comes in a wide range of finishes, so choose the best quality within your budget,” suggests Rachael. The most important thing is to pick a finish that fits within your budget as well as the overall style of your home.

Estimated cost: $50 for washing machine tapware. Sink sets range from $100–$600.

A country style laundry renovation for under 10K.
Porter’s Paints Timberline adds country appeal on the VJ panelled walls and base cabinets. The cabinetry is a mix of 600mm base cabinets and wall cabinets with ‘country profile’ raw doors, all from Kaboodle Kitchen. “I also used wireware range from Kaboodle inside the base cabinets,” Alicia adds. “This allowed the basket to pull out and hold all the cleaning products. Styling: Annalese Hay, Photography: Kate Enno

The best builder’s tips for an affordable laundry renovation

  1. “Reconfiguring walls for a laundry rarely produces life-changing results,” says Rachael. “While we often remove walls in main areas to greatly increase function and liveability, we rarely see the value for money in making massive structural changes to a laundry. Save your money here!”
  2. Building new, or renovating right back to the bare frame? Line all the walls with VJ sheets (rather than gyprock) and use this to double as a splashback,” suggests Rachael. This will eliminate the cost of tiles, a tiler and a plasterer while adding classic Australian aesthetic appeal.
  3. “Consider installing a hanging rail, perfect for air-drying delicate items,” suggests John.

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1262424 under-10k-laundry-renovation (2) Builder and expert DIY renovator Alicia wanted “more cottage and less coastal” in her Melbourne home, which took style notes from modern farmhouses. The warm and rustic ‘Hickory maple’ laminate from Kaboodle Kitchen was picked for the benchtop to ensure longevity in this hardworking wet area. Styling: Annalese Hay, Photography: Kate Enno under-10k-laundry-renovation (1) Porter’s Paints Timberline adds country appeal on the VJ panelled walls and base cabinets. The cabinetry is a mix of 600mm base cabinets and wall cabinets with ‘country profile’ raw doors, all from Kaboodle Kitchen. “I also used wireware range from Kaboodle inside the base cabinets,” Alicia adds. “This allowed the basket to pull out and hold all the cleaning products. Styling: Annalese Hay, Photography: Kate Enno homebeautiful-1262424
Makeover masterclass: Simple tips for a bold laundry https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/renovation-ideas/laundry/laundry-room-makeover/ Mon, 30 Dec 2024 01:05:08 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/laundry-room-makeover A bevy of experts weigh in on the latest in modern laundry design

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The laundry is arguably the hardest-working room in the house and yet, traditionally, a laundry makeover is the last cab off the rank. What if the design of this essential utilitarian zone is approached with as much care and consideration as our living or bedroom spaces?

After all, it’s just the washing machine, dryer, sink and some cupboards, right? Not so. The way we view laundries is changing. We’ve collected some of the best laundry design ideas, layout advice and interior design techniques to help you dream up a laundry makeover that’s as aesthetically pleasing as the rest of your home. From space-saving and storage ideas to appliance integration, we’ve got you covered.

1. Add colour and pattern in the laundry

Colour, pattern and texture can harmonise in a laundry just like any other room in the house, using wallpaper and window coverings in a similar hue and theme across all sections. Texture-rich laundries will benefit from a simple palette, while more uniform spaces can support more colour. Even a rug on the floor can work, says interior designer Lisa Burdus, whose top tip is to keep surfaces clear. “Ensure what you see from the open door is as neat as possible,” she says.

Laundry design ideas
(Credit: Louise Roche)

2. Get the laundry layout right

Where space allows, consider a U-shaped laundry layout, which allows plenty of work space either side of the sink while keeping appliances within reach. Add interest and warmth with colourful paint colours or window dressings. 

Studio Trio interior designer Lauren Mahoney says that for an ergonomic laundry of your own, focus on the finer details. “Allow extra depth behind appliances to get a flush finish with the joinery, or the machines will stick out,” advises Lauren. “Add pull-out baskets to hide dirty laundry and, if possible, face the sink to the outside or near a window.”

3. Maximise your laundry storage

It’s amazing what you can fit into a small laundry design. Whether you’ve got a cupboard-sized nook or a converted bedroom space, cut laundry clutter by maximising your storage options,” advises interior designer Anna-Carin McNamara. “Utilising your space doesn’t necessarily mean filling every wall with storage. I’d recommend optimising hanging space so that you have less use of the dryer by allowing room to hang things up and more space for a nice benchtop.”

Contemporary laundry hanging rack
(Credit: Nat Spadavecchia)

4. Customise your laundry design

Extend the style of your home into your laundry by choosing tapware and cabinetry hardware to match your kitchen choices. This Sydney laundry (below) by Stritt Design & Construction is pure function. “The laundry incorporates a stacking dryer and washing machine, which allows for ease of access, plenty of bench space for folding and a long hanging rail perfect for hanging freshly ironed clothes,” says Janine Stritt. “A pull-out cupboard below with double hampers is wonderful for sorting washing and to the right of the benchtop is a laundry chute.” Janine likes stacking appliances to free up bench space, or elevating appliances so they can be easily reached, though, there are better-suited laundry design top loader machines will require.

Pale blue laundry hanging rail stacked washer dryer
This hard-working hanging rail was designed to hang laundry and the ironing, while a nearby wall hook is idea for a hand towel. (Credit: Photographer: Simon Whitbread)

5. Small laundry design ideas

The secret to aceing a small-space laundry is spatial planning and careful colour consideration. This space-saving Melbourne laundry (below) by Terri Shannon of Bloom Interior Design & Decoration combines a European design with practical solutions. “Ensure your appliances and sink all fit within the cavity space, and the doors need to fold clear of the work area,” says Terri. “White is always a good all-rounder, and you can add a splash of colour through a gorgeous mosaic tile.”

white laundry in cupboard with bifold doors
“The bi-fold door and monochrome palette is the hero,” says Terri. “We also installed a hamper drawer, which is great for storing washing.” (Credit: Armelle Habib)

6. Stamp your style on your laundry

Chloe Brookman, founder of lifestyle brand Olli Ella, channelled much of the brand’s Hygge aesthetic when she renovated her dark and dated 1970s bungalow in Byron Bay. A standout example is the light-filled laundry (below), with its Scandi timber cabinetry, chunky rug, rattan pendant light, plenty of baskets, potted plants and an abundance of shelving to display her flea-market finds. “Our style is unfussy and casual,” says Chloe. To re-create this inviting look, employ the basic principles of Danish hygge interiors, prioritising comfort, cosiness and contentment through the use of texture and treasured possessions.

Scandi-style plywood laundry
A woven Freedom pendant light, soft furnishings, display shelving and large windows with a garden outlook makes this laundry feel more like an extension of the living zone than a work space. (Credit: Maree Homer)

7. Heated laundry floor

While it might seem like a bit of a splurge, Anna-Carin explains that floor heating is in fact a great ergonomic investment. “Floor heating is a great versatile investment; the subtle heat dries laundry when you hang them up and it also gets rid of that murky damp feeling.”

Pale blue laundry with drying racks
(Credit: Chris Warnes)

Shop laundry baskets

01

Joseph Joseph ‘Tota’ laundry separation basket

$113.97 (usually $189.95), Myer

What lies beneath the sleek lines of this clever laundry hamper is a foolproof system of laundry handling. Take the guess work out of whether or not you have enough for a load by sorting your darks and lights directly into their designated baskets after wearing and, you are literally… sorted!

Key features:

  • Handy carry handles to remove baskets and take straight to the washing machine
  • Stylish, seamless outer
  • 2 x 45 litre fabric tote bags
laundry basket

02

Kendrick laundry basket in Natural

$69.99 (usually $99.99), Adairs

Merging the classic old-school laundry basket with a modern aesthetic, then Kendrick is part of a wider basket range from Adairs for a cohesive look to storage throughout your entire home. For a coastal look, choose the neutral paper weave or bring your laundry to life with crisp white or striking black – also available in the same collection.

Key features:

  • Large size H52 x D30 x W30cm
  • Study built with handles built into the frame and reinforced with stylish timber detail
  • Matching washing basket and extra large divided laundry basket in range.

03

Wire laundry hamper cabinet

$29 (usually $39), Target

Key features:

This tidy but mighty laundry station might be the affordable answer to your dirty washing dilemma. Great for a small laundry, the dual polyester bags allow for sorting as you go in clever tilting bays. A shelf on top will hold washing powder and pegs, or provide a folding surface for clean washing. Genius!

  • Compact size H67 x D33 x W70cm
  • Powder-coated white frame with removable liners
  • Wall fixings included for added safety
Herman laundry basket

04

Ferm Living ‘Herman’ laundry basket

$143 (usually $205), Finnish Design Shop

A classic minimal line meets the utmost practicality in this namesake from the Danish design office Herman Studio. Perfect for a Scandi-style home, or for a minimal, contemporary look to avoid a cluttered laundry or bathroom space where dirty washing collects. There’s also a cute magazine rack to match!

Key features:

  • Large size H65 x D40 x W50cm
  • Powder-coated black frame with 100% cotton canvas bag and leather string detail
  • Designed with sustainability in mind for a long life.

The post Makeover masterclass: Simple tips for a bold laundry appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1027612 Laundry design ideas Contemporary laundry hanging rack Pale blue laundry hanging rail stacked washer dryer This hard-working hanging rail was designed to hang laundry and the ironing, while a nearby wall hook is idea for a hand towel. white laundry in cupboard with bifold doors “The bi-fold door and monochrome palette is the hero,” says Terri. “We also installed a hamper drawer, which is great for storing washing.” Scandi-style plywood laundry A woven Freedom pendant light, soft furnishings, display shelving and large windows with a garden outlook makes this laundry feel more like an extension of the living zone than a work space. Pale blue laundry with drying racks laundry basket Wire-laundry-hamper-cabinet Herman laundry basket homebeautiful-1027612
Laundry renovations that will change the way you do the washing forever https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/renovation-ideas/laundry/laundry-renovations/ Fri, 12 Jan 2024 00:37:56 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/laundry-renovations Professional renovation tips that will hang a lousy laundry out to dry.

The post Laundry renovations that will change the way you do the washing forever appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Well-considered laundry renovations can turn a bleak, poorly planned room (kept hidden behind a closed door) into a beautiful space you may actually want to show off to your visitors. A renovated laundry will also help you get the job done quicker, keep clutter at bay and make the whole experience so much more pleasant. 

It doesn’t matter whether you have a small laundry or a large laundry, a big budget or a tiny budget – there is always something you can do to improve both the functionality and appearance of your laundry. This roundup of renovated laundries as well as professional tips from Three Birds Renovations co-founder Lana Taylor, will inspire you to find clever ways to turn a drab laundry into a stellar space. 

Beige, white and marble laundry by Three Birds Renovations
Three Birds Renovations designed this laundry for a family. A bank of multiple washers and dryers lightens the load of wash day. (Image: Three Birds Renovations)

Where to start

Three Birds Renovations are currently working on House 15 – so it’s safe to say that they’ve designed and renovated their fair share of laundries. “The best place to start is either with how the room looks, or how it works. Every decision is interlinked. It’s not a linear sequence and you need all of the elements to work together,” says Lana.

Here are three things you need to think about before you start renovating a laundry.

1. Budget

According to HiPages, a laundry room renovation in Australia can cost anywhere from $5000 to $25,000. “Tiles, benchtop, cabinetry and tapware choices could take your reno into the tens of thousands, or you could do it on the cheap for under $5000,” says Lana. 

Ways you can save money renovating the laundry: 

  • Flat pack cabinetry – Flat pack cabinetry has come a long way over the years. For a custom look on a budget, opt for cabinets that can be painted a colour that matches your laundry design aesthetic. The main players in the flat-pack space are: Kaboodle, IKEA, Freedom and Kinsman.
  • Keep existing appliances – While it’s nice to have a matching set of appliances to go with your shiny new laundry, keeping existing appliances is a great way to shave hundreds (and potentially thousands) of dollars off your renovation.
  • Simple tiles – “Don’t waste your budget on tiles if you’re strapped for cash,” says Lana. “You can use simple 60x60cm porcelain marble-look tiles on the floor, with a tile skirt and painted walls. Subway tiles always look great for a splashback and there are some very affordable choices around.”
Blue laundry with marble benchtop and subway tile splashback
Keep tiling choices simple if your budget is tight, says Lana. This laundry gets its wow-factor from cabinetry painted in Dulux Shadow Blue. (Photography: Suzi Appel | Styling: Beckie Littler)

2. Layout

Another way to save money on a laundry reno is to work within the existing footprint (i.e. keep all of the plumbing and electrical in the same spots). Doing so will reduce your plumbing and electrical costs, and you can reserve more of your budget for fun things like tiles, benchtop materials and tapware. 

It’s important to think about the way you use your laundry before you settle on a layout. Would you like your laundry to be a multi-purpose space with enough room for sorting and folding laundry? In that case, prioritise bench space. Do you have pets that need to be bathed indoors? Then consider opting for an extra-large sink and a tap with a retractable hose. Do you want a laundry that always looks tidy? Then save space for pull-out laundry hampers and plenty of storage. 

The appliances you choose can also impact your laundry’s layout, says Lana. “We love a front loader because we prefer how they look and they can also be stacked or placed underneath a bench to save on space.” 

Narrow laundry with l-shaped layout
It may be a narrow space, but this L-shaped laundry has plenty of storage and bench space. Stacking the appliances also helps maximise floor space. A pocket door conceals the laundry and helps to block out noise. ( Photography: Simon Whitbread | Styling: Corina Koch)

3. Style

Finally, think about how you want your laundry to look and feel. “Create a moodboard to ensure that all your laundry elements complement each other,” says Lana.

“Continue to revisit your decisions but don’t actually buy anything until you’ve decided on all elements. 

The basics

Once you’ve settled on a budget, layout and style, it’s time to prioritise the essentials. 

If you’re working in a small laundry and aren’t quite sure what you need to prioritise, think of a European-style laundry, which includes only the absolute essentials. They often include:

  • Vertical space for stacked laundry and dryer units
  • Soaking tub with under-basin storage
  • Upper cabinetry for storing cleaning supplies and linen
  • Exhaust fan
White and marble laundry with tiled terracotta splashback
Selecting simple cabinetry can allow you to splurge on items such as feature tiles and tapware. (Photography: Simon Whitbread | Styling: Jessica Bellef)

Laundry storage solutions

Now it’s time to create order. 

Aside from piles of washing, what else tends to create clutter in the laundry? If, when planning your laundry renovations you don’t make a ‘home’ for things like washing detergent, softeners, stain remover sprays, general cleaning supplies, washing baskets, soaking buckets, clothes hangers, clothes airers – the list goes on, you could end up hating your new laundry just as much as your old one! 

To prevent this from happening, take stock of items you use regularly and take full advantage of both under-cabinet storage and above-cabinet storage. Don’t forget to include a tall storage cupboard (if space permits) for stowing away the ironing board, broom, mop and vacuum cleaner. 

Large combined laundry and mud room with in built storage
This modern country laundry features plenty of storage, which helps the space stay tidy all day, every day. (Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Kylie Jackes)

Lighting for laundry renovations

One area of laundry design that is frequently overlooked is lighting. The ideal lighting set up will not only brighten the room, but provide enough task lighting so you can easily spot stains, lint and creases. 

Take your needs into account

It’s one thing to configure a laundry layout based on the space and budget you have available, but there are other things you should take into account when designing your laundry. Raising appliances off the ground, for example, is one way to reduce strain on your back as you tackle the weekly washing.

If you’re keen to get the kids involved in household chores, but they claim they ‘don’t know how to use the washing machine’, smart appliances that have AI-load detection technology can take the guesswork out of selecting a wash setting. 

White and blue Hamptons style laundry
Placing the washer and dryer on a pedestal can reduce strain on your back. (Photography: Simon Whitbread | Styling: Heliconia)

Nice to have in laundry renovations

Feature tiles “Because the laundry is a small room, you can actually get away with adding more design features for less,” says Lana. “Invest in those fabulous feature tiles from Sardinia for your splashback – because it’s such a small area you get more impact.”

Built-in laundry hampers Keep dirty washing out of sight by installing built-in laundry hampers. If you have the room, consider installing two or three for sorting items as you go.

Access outdoors Consider adding an outside door to your laundry if your budget and home layout permits. This will make hanging washing on the line so much easier. A door with a window will also add plenty of natural light to the space.

Drying cupboard If you live in a cooler climate, a drying cupboard could be a fantastic investment. 

Hanging rail Another alternative to a drying cupboard is to install a hanging rail. A good position for a rail is over the laundry sink (to catch any drips from handwashed items). There are also suspended laundry drying racks that can be raised and lowered when required. 

Energy-saving appliances – Investing in energy-saving laundry appliances will save you money in the long run. 

The post Laundry renovations that will change the way you do the washing forever appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1024135 Beige, white and marble laundry by Three Birds Renovations Three Birds Renovations designed this laundry for a family. A bank of multiple washers and dryers lightens the load of wash day. Blue laundry with marble benchtop and subway tile splashback Keep tiling choices simple if your budget is tight, says Lana. This laundry gets its wow-factor from cabinetry painted in Dulux Shadow Blue. Narrow laundry with l-shaped layout It may be a narrow space, but this L-shaped laundry has plenty of storage and bench space. Stacking the appliances also helps maximise floor space. A pocket door conceals the laundry and helps to block out noise. White and marble laundry with tiled terracotta splashback Selecting simple cabinetry can allow you to splurge on items such as feature tiles and tapware. Large combined laundry and mud room with in built storage This modern country laundry features plenty of storage, which helps the space stay tidy all day, every day. White and blue Hamptons style laundry Placing the washer and dryer on a pedestal can reduce strain on your back. homebeautiful-1024135
How to fit a laundry into even the smallest of spaces https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/renovation-ideas/small-space-laundry-renovations/ Thu, 14 Dec 2023 00:11:09 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/small-space-laundry-renovations Renovating in a tiny laundry? Here are some big solutions.

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Renovating a laundry can feel like a game of Tetris. Initially, there’s a blank canvas that seems like it will fit in everything you need, but as you factor in the space required for a washing machine, a dryer, bench space and storage, you quickly realise – how will everything fit? 

The laundry is often the hardest working room, but in many homes, it also happens to be the smallest. That means every square millimetre matters! Whether you live in a studio, an apartment, a townhouse or a larger family home, there is always room to make a small laundry function just as efficiently as its larger counterparts. Stacking appliances, for example, can create much-needed bench and storage space. Likewise, 2-in-1 appliances that can wash and dry, will also save space. 

We spoke to the experts to find out how to make a small laundry as functional, and beautiful, as possible.

White and timber laundry with shaker style doors
Shoreline Kitchens built the laundry from the old kitchen carcasses in this refreshing Federation-era home on Sydney’s North Shore. (Credit: Photography: Ryan Linnegar | Styling: Fiona Gould) (Credit: Photography: Ryan Linnegar | Styling: Fiona Gould)

How much space do you need?

Whether you’re in an apartment, an old home or are working on plans for a new build, it’s good to know up front what is the least amount of space possible needed and what exactly is required to get a workable laundry into even the tiniest space in your home. We asked the experts for a breakdown on how small space living can work to include laundries, and what combination of appliances works well in the available space.

“Think practical and make good use of small spaces,” says Senior category manager for Winning Appliances Jordan Rogers. “Every single part of your laundry can be useful to you no matter how small, whether that means having less cupboards or a smaller sink to compensate for bench space, or room for appliances.”

“It’s definitely better to prioritise what you think you need more space for, such as washing machines and dryers, and what you may not use as much,” said Jordan.

Contemporary timber laundry with gold tap
A machine that can wash and dry can save floor space in a small laundry. (Credit: Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Kylie Jackes) (Credit: Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Kylie Jackes)

Space savers

Benchtops should be 650mm deep to accommodate a washing machine/dryer, and allow adequate space for a large sink and tap directly behind. 

“It is essential to have practical sink space, with lots of room to work with and an optional drainer accessories,” Jordan suggests when considering in the planning stages of your laundry renovation process. “Adequate bench space is often overlooked for laundries, but is needed more than people think. Having easy to access powerpoints for other appliances are also a common afterthought for renovators. 

A simple rail affixed between walls, or a collapsible air dryer, are ideal for hanging delicates for freshly ironed items.

Laundry with blue patterned mosaic tile floors
If you plan to place your washer and dryer under a bench, ensure a depth of at least 650mm. (Credit: Photography: Tim Salisbury, Eleanor Byrne | Styling: Anna Spiro) (Credit: Photography: Tim Salisbury, Eleanor Byrne | Styling: Anna Spiro)

Buy once, buy well

Rather than cutting corners, it pays to future-proof as you make decisions for your laundry renovation – perhaps less likely to be updated down the track than a kitchen or bathroom. 

“Always invest in quality appliances that are focussed on not only durability, but fabric care too,” says Jordan. “These items are mostly used daily, so you will always get your return on investment with quality appliances. Many brands on the market now offer 5 year + warranties on products, so it’s good to know how long your warranty is before you make any purchases.”

Get the finishes right

“It is important to choose good quality, durable materials for benchtops, wall tiles and cupboards that can handle water, steam and any other elements they may be exposed to in the laundry room,” advises Jordan.

Navy blue laundry with patterned tile splashback
The old laundry in this Melbourne weatherboard double-fronted home was transformed into this small and pretty laundry. (Credit: Photography: Martina Gemmola | Design: Carmel Wylie, GIA Bathrooms & Kitchens) (Credit: Photography: Martina Gemmola | Design: Carmel Wylie, GIA Bathrooms & Kitchens)

Laundry ideas for a studio apartment

“When space is limited in a studio apartment, and a laundry is simply a single appliance in a cupboard, a washer dryer combo is a two-in-one solution that will save space as well as time,” suggests Fisher & Paykel Senior industrial designer Wendy Nannestad. 

“Compact all-in-one front loaders are easy to install under a bathroom or kitchen benchtop or into a hallway cupboard and will wash and dry an average load in less than three hours. And as no venting is required for installation, it means less humidity in a small studio space.”

White laundry next to modern white kitchen
(Credit: Photography: The Palm Co / Styling: Sarah Yarrow)

Laundry ideas for apartments and townhouses

“Space is equally valuable in apartments where washers and dryers are likewise hidden behind cabinetry,” says Wendy. “Side-by-side front-loading machines allow for usable benchtops above, or stacked machines make for efficient use of cupboard space.”

“In a townhouse there may be a small laundry room, but it’s still wise to stack front-loading appliances where possible to free up valuable floor or storage space.”

Laundry ideas for family homes

“While larger laundries offer more room to move, top-loading washing machines may be the ideal choice for meeting the demands of families who do lots of washing,” says Wendy. “Fisher & Paykel’s top-loading washer ranges in capacity from 5.5 to 10 kilograms to handle family-sized loads and bulky items, such as doonas.”

Classic grey and white laundry with stacked washer/dryer
Stacking a washer and dryer can free up floor space, says Wendy. (Credit: Photography: Simon Whitbread | Styling Corina Koch) (Credit: Photography: Simon Whitbread | Styling Corina Koch)

Laundry design essentials to consider

Placement

Ensure that the placement of your appliances lends itself to ease of use day in and day out.

Storage

Allow for enough storage space where you can place items, such as ironing boards and laundry baskets, out of sight, so the laundry becomes a beautiful extension of your home.

A classic grey country laundry with a farmhouse sink and shaker cabinets.
Hiding the appliances behind cupboard doors successfully softens this laundry space. Powdery blue-grey tones dominate here, with joinery in Dulux Pūkaki Half and Chalford limestone pavers from Eco Outdoor. (Photography: Maree Homer / Styling: Kayla Gex)

Energy and water efficiency

Energy and water efficient appliances are a must. Look for products that tick boxes of efficiency to suit both your daily needs and that of the environment. “The ASKO 10kg/10kg Laundry Package has a 5-star energy and a 5-star water rating for the washing machine and a 9 star energy rating for the heat pump dryer which are some of the highest rated laundry appliances on the market,” says Jordan.

“Appliances have hugely improved in the star rating in recent years, so getting a new washing machine or dryer that has a better rating will end up saving you money in the long run,” says Jordan.

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1024247 White and timber laundry with shaker style doors Shoreline Kitchens built the laundry from the old kitchen carcasses in this refreshing Federation-era home on Sydney's North Shore. Contemporary timber laundry with gold tap A machine that can wash and dry can save floor space in a small laundry. Laundry with blue patterned mosaic tile floors If you plan to place your washer and dryer under a bench, ensure a depth of at least 650mm. Navy blue laundry with patterned tile splashback The old laundry in this Melbourne weatherboard double-fronted home was transformed into this small and pretty laundry. White laundry next to modern white kitchen Classic grey and white laundry with stacked washer/dryer Stacking a washer and dryer can free up floor space, says Wendy. southern-highlands-country-weekender-laundry-farmhouse-sink homebeautiful-1024247
Inside a flawless family-friendly laundry room designed by Andy and Deb https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/renovation-ideas/laundry/family-friendly-laundry-room-ideas/ Wed, 07 Jun 2023 15:34:22 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/family-friendly-laundry-room-ideas Designed to service a family of eight!

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Dirty washing can fill a laundry hamper with alarming speed. Just when you think it’s empty – blink and another load will appear. It’s a truth former Block contestants and busy parents Andy and Deb know all too well. So when they were tasked with designing a functional laundry room as part of their Gold Coast hinterland home renovation, they put all of their tried and tested family-friendly laundry ideas in place. 

The pair designed the room for a blended family of eight, who had a long laundry list of features they wanted their dream laundry to have. “I think we managed to tick all the boxes except for the one wish of making the washing disappear!” says Deb.

First they focused on the practical: storage, layout and the selection of efficient appliances, before finishing off the room with their signature style, this time incorporating a wabi-sabi design influence

“We embraced imperfections, using natural and organic materials and focused on authenticity and simplicity – elements that bring some much-needed warmth and comfort to the space,” says Deb. As for the colour palette, the couple selected soft, muted green to connect the home’s interior to its beautiful bushland surrounds. 

Let’s sort through five design details that make this functional family laundry a complete success.

Calming, coastal style laundry designed by Andy and Deb featuring a handmade tile splashback
Large capacity Westinghouse appliances were carefully selected to keep up with the family’s laundry demands. The room doesn’t have any windows, so a framed landscape print creates a focal point while understated wall sconces provide plenty of task lighting. (Credit: Image: Suppplied)

Efficient Appliances

Choosing large-capacity appliances was crucial says Deb, to ensure that the family weren’t running more loads than they needed to. For this space, Andy and Deb opted for maximum capacity Westinghouse appliances (a 10kg washer and an 8kg dryer) but “go for the best quality appliances you can afford as washers and dryers are always in use and good quality will last longer,” says Deb. 

Rather than choosing a condenser or vented dryer, Andy and Deb selected a heat pump dryer, citing ventilation as a deciding factor. “The dryer needed to be suitable for a room that would often be closed off, so we didn’t want one that released hot air into the space,” says Deb. 

“We made sure the cabinetry around the appliances was deep enough to ensure that they sat flush under the bench,” says Andy.

Bench space

Bench space on both sides of the laundry sink was another feature Andy and Deb sought to include in the laundry for folding washing, handwashing delicate items or even simply setting down a basket or mop bucket.

Hidden Helpers

The client wanted a laundry that didn’t look like a laundry, says Deb, and keeping accessories like a fold-away ironing boards cleverly hidden helped them achieve this goal. 

“The cupboards next to the washing machine and dryer are large enough for washing baskets to be hidden away,” says Deb. For times when the laundry does get a bit chaotic, cavity doors can slide across to keep everything hidden from view of the kitchen and butlers pantry. 

Andy and Deb standing in the kitchen of house 2
Andy and Deb completed the laundry build as part of their House 2 project in the Gold Coast hinterland. (Credit: Photo: Supplied)

Lighting

“We were unable to put windows in,” says Andy, so the couple had to get creative with the design to ensure the room still felt light and open. “Extra lights can make all the difference and turn a gloomy small space into a bright and calming space,” says Deb. “Two lovely wall lights make the laundry look incredible.”

The pair also used styling magic to create the impression of a room with a connection to the outdoors. A large landscape canvas print set above the sink became the room’s ‘window’ and overall focal point. 

Laundry visible from kitchen and butlers pantry
The laundry flows on from the kitchen and butler’s pantry, so it was important to keep cabinetry and benchtop materials consistent. Polytec cabinetry in ‘Greige’ runs throughout. (Credit: Photo: Supplied)

Design Details

“It doesn’t have to be stark and cold in there,” says Deb, who believes styling is just as important in the laundry as it is elsewhere in the home. Details such as handmade tiles, a mix of timber and laminate and art make this room feel both pleasant to be in, and connected to the rest of the home. 

As the laundry flows on from the kitchen and butlers pantry, it was important to keep the cabinetry and benchtop selections consistent. “The soft colour of the doors and benchtops was chosen to match the kitchen and butlers pantry,” says Deb. 

The verdict

“The family love it,” says Deb. “When you think of a laundry, you never really think of luxury, but really I believe we spend so much time in this space and treating to ourselves to a bit of luxury can make the chore more enjoyable and worth our time.” 

The post Inside a flawless family-friendly laundry room designed by Andy and Deb appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1035086 Calming, coastal style laundry designed by Andy and Deb featuring a handmade tile splashback Large capacity Westinghouse appliances were carefully selected to keep up with the family's laundry demands. The room doesn't have any windows, so a framed landscape print creates a focal point while understated wall sconces provide plenty of task lighting. Andy and Deb standing in the kitchen of house 2 Andy and Deb completed the laundry build as part of their House 2 project in the Gold Coast hinterland. Laundry visible from kitchen and butlers pantry The laundry flows on from the kitchen and butler's pantry, so it was important to keep cabinetry and benchtop materials consistent. Polytec cabinetry in 'Greige' runs throughout. homebeautiful-1035086
Small space laundries: how to fit a laundry into any space https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/renovation-ideas/laundry/small-space-laundry-renovations-22729/ Wed, 15 Sep 2021 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/small-space-laundry-renovations-22729 Renovating in a tiny space? Here are some big solutions.

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Renovating your home can feel like a game of Tetris – a blank canvas that at first, seems like it will fit in everything you need – room to accommodate all the appliances, storage and workspaces on your wishlist. In planning the layout of key traffic areas in kitchen, bathroom and living rooms however, allowing for adequate laundry space is often last on the list. Worse still, hopes and dreams for your laundry renovation are often jammed into a tiny space at the last minute.

When space is already tight, how do you go about fitting in a laundry, and just how much space do you need to make it work?

How much space do you need?

Whether you’re in an apartment, an old home or are working on plans for a new build, it’s good to know up front what is the least amount of space possible needed and what exactly is required to get a workable laundry into even the tiniest space in your home. We asked the experts for a breakdown on how small space living can work to include laundries, and what combination of appliances works well in the available space.

“Think practical and make good use of small spaces,” says Senior category manager for Winning Appliances Jordan Rogers. “Every single part of your laundry can be useful to you no matter how small, whether that means having less cupboards or a smaller sink to compensate for bench space, or room for appliances.”

“It’s definitely better to prioritise what you think you need more space for, such as washing machines and dryers, and what you may not use as much,” said Jordan.

Shoreline Kitchens built the laundry from the old kitchen carcasses in this refreshing Federation-era home on Sydney’s North Shore.

(Credit: Photographer: Ryan Linnegar | Styling: Fiona Gould)

Space savers

Benchtops should be 650mm deep to accommodate a washing machine/dryer, and allow adequate space for a large sink and tap directly behind. “It is essential to have practical sink space, with lots of room to work with and an optional drainer accessories,” Jordan suggests when considering in the planning stages of your laundry renovation process. “Adequate bench space is often overlooked for laundries, but is needed more than people think. Having easy to access powerpoints for other appliances are also a common afterthought for renovators.”

A simple rail affixed between walls, or a collapsible air dryer, are ideal for hanging delicates for freshly ironed items.

Buy once, buy well

Rather than cutting corners, it pays to future-proof as you make decisions for your laundry renovation – perhaps less likely to be updated down the track than a kitchen or bathroom. “Always invest in quality appliances that are focussed on not only durability, but fabric care too,” says Jordan. “These items are mostly used daily, so you will always get your return on investment with quality appliances. Many brands on the market now offer 5 year + warranties on products, so it’s good to know how long your warranty is before you make any purchases.”

Get the finishes right

“It is important to choose good quality, durable materials for benchtops, wall tiles and cupboards that can handle water, steam and any other elements they may be exposed to in the laundry room,” advises Jordan.

The old laundry in this Melbourne weatherboard double-fronted home was transformed into this small and pretty laundry.

(Credit: Photographer: Martina Gemmola | Design: Carmel Wylie, GIA Bathrooms & Kitchens)

How big is your home?

Studio apartment

“When space is limited in a studio apartment, and a laundry is simply a single appliance in a cupboard, a washer dryer combo is a two-in-one solution that will save space as well as time,” suggests Fisher & Paykel Senior industrial designer Wendy Nannestad. “Compact all-in-one front loaders are easy to install under a bathroom or kitchen benchtop or into a hallway cupboard and will wash and dry an average load in less than three hours. And as no venting is required for installation, it means less humidity in a small studio space.”

Apartments and townhouses

“Space is equally valuable in apartments where washers and dryers are likewise hidden behind cabinetry,” says Wendy. “Side-by-side front-loading machines allow for usable benchtops above, or stacked machines make for efficient use of cupboard space.”

“In a townhouse there may be a small laundry room, but it’s still wise to stack front-loading appliances where possible to free up valuable floor or storage space.”

Family home

“While larger laundries offer more room to move, top-loading washing machines may be the ideal choice for meeting the demands of families who do lots of washing,” says Wendy. “Fisher & Paykel’s top-loading washer ranges in capacity from 5.5 to 10 kilograms to handle family-sized loads and bulky items, such as doonas.”

Customised cabinetry doors in Laminex Winter Sky spruce up the laundry in this elegant heritage Sydney home restored to its former glory.

(Credit: Photographer: Dave Wheeler | Styling: Lisa Burden)

Essentials to consider

Placement

Ensure that the placement of your appliances lends itself to ease of use day in and day out.

Storage

Allow for enough storage space where you can place items, such as ironing boards and laundry baskets, out of sight, so the laundry becomes a beautiful extension of your home.

Energy and efficiency

Energy and water efficient appliances are a must. Look for products that tick boxes of efficiency to suit both your daily needs and that of the environment. “The ASKO 10kg/10kg Laundry Package has a 5-star energy and a 5-star water rating for the washing machine and a 9 star energy rating for the heat pump dryer which are some of the highest rated laundry appliances on the market,” says Jordan.

“Appliances have hugely improved in the star rating in recent years, so getting a new washing machine or dryer that has a better rating will end up saving you money in the long run,” says Jordan.

Cavity sizes required for installation | Fisher & Paykel

Cavity sizes required for installation | Fisher & Paykel

Cavity sizes required for installation | Fisher & Paykel

Cavity sizes required for installation | Fisher & Paykel

Cavity sizes required for installation | Fisher & Paykel

Cavity sizes required for installation | Fisher & Paykel

The post Small space laundries: how to fit a laundry into any space appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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