Imagine, actually looking forward to laundry day — and let’s face it, that’s every day for many of us! Although it takes care of our dirty work, the humble laundry can be one of the most unloved and under-styled rooms in the home. But no more. The modern take is equal parts efficient, organised and elegant. Well if you must spend precious hours washing, drying and folding, you may as well do it in style. Steal a few ideas from these luxe laundry rooms to make this mundane household chore more of a ‘me time’ moment.
1.The luxury of space
An area just for sorting and washing, space to iron, a countertop for folding — everything in its place. That’s the beauty of working with a generous laundry footprint: hum-drum tasks can seem more effortless. With classic overtones and quality cabinetry, this laundry subtly delineates its zones for a sense of purpose and calm.
Image: Style Kitchens by Design // stylekitchensbydesign.com.au
2. Puppy love
We almost don’t know where to start with this incredible space. The glorious de Gournay wallpaper commissioned by designer Dina Bandman? The so-pretty feature pendant? The pampered pooch (and boutique bathtub!)? Including a pet bath in your laundry design may seem like an indulgence. But, how cute??
Image: via House Beautiful/Pinterest // Photo: Seth Smoot
3. Hang loose
Layered whites and creams create a timeless canvas in this epic laundry by nutritionist Tori Wesszer from Fraiche. “I wanted a space where I could enjoy folding clothes with a cup of tea or clip flowers from the garden to put in a vase without wanting to run out of the room as fast as humanly possible,” Tori explains on her blog. We can relate. Love the choice of a round window and shiplap detailing along with durable quartz countertops and that all-important hanging rail for a convenient and protected drying spot. The wire laundry hamper adds a dynamic, playful touch. Definite #laundrygoals.
Image: Fraiche // fraichenutrition.com
4. Go wild
We wouldn’t expect anything less from designer and Jungalow-founder Justina Blakeney. Her own wallpaper (in Tigris) packs a personality punch, the stacked, slate-grey washer/dryer combo is a knockout, and we are coveting that custom-painted Kohler sink. Although the element of surprise can be maintained behind closed doors, Justina notes “it’s funny how I actually want to keep the bi-fold doors open because the space just makes me really happy.”
Related article: 10 Bathroom trends to love right now
Image: Jungalow // jungalow.com
5. Make an entrance
A statement door creates an invitation — “hey, come on in. Let’s make this fun.” The choice of a barn door in this gorgeous gelato peach hue brings colour and focus, while still serving as a space saver inside the laundry.
Image: laundry from Ashley Winn Design // ashleywinndesign.com // Photo: Kate Osborne Photography
6. Mind your delicates
The powder-soft palette, abundant storage, and pleasing symmetry of this ultra-elegant space would make every wash an absolute pleasure.
Image: Coco Republic via Apartment Therapy
7. Little wonder
An ultra-compact laundry can still be chic. This one has aced the brief — clean, white palette, marble splashback and a dash of gold for luxurious impact, plus well-considered practicalities. Kudos to Lisa McInnes-Nelson of Gathering Walls. And did you spot the creative litter box solution (see pet door bottom left)? Purr-fect.
Image: @gatheringwalls via Instagram
8. Take a seat
Bring your love of marine blues + brass through to your laundry. A cushioned bench and plenty of hanging space add a practical-yet-polished mud room feel while statement wallpaper takes the vibe to a new level. So sophisticated, it’s almost more living room than laundry.
Image: decoomo.com via Pinterest
9. Sort it out
Simple yet stylish, this laundry caught our attention with its clever countertop drawers. What a top spot for those bits and pieces found in pockets, extra pegs, odd socks and unphotogenic washing supplies. The room’s gorgeous (and useful) styling elements might also encourage us to linger longer.
Image: Lewis & Weldon // lewisandweldon.com
10. Up-style your laundry space
Give functional a fresh look with greenery and a mix of materials — plush fabric storage will soften hard-working appliances while timber accents bring a sense of warmth. This lovely laundry is efficient and perfectly balanced, right down to the elegant tiling (those petite herringbones!) and chic countertop bottles.
Image: Studio Black Interiors // studioblack.com.au
11. Room with a view
If there’s a chance to position your laundry near a window or doorway, lock it in. Having natural light, air and aspect (vs a dark, dungeon feel) will always lift spirits — you might even be tempted to hang around for the spin cycle.
Image: @velvetandlinen via Instagram
