With the average Australian spending at least three hours a week on laundry (three hours?! I am definitely not part of that average), it seems that an intuitive, intelligent and efficient laundry setup is a must.
“Time and style conscious families want a laundry space jam packed with functionality and storage to create the ultimate in laundry layouts,” says Henley designer Micaela Campbell.
Here are some top tips from home builder Henley for creating a beautiful and functional laundry space.
Storage
A laundry without enough storage is like navy without gold, or a cupcake with no icing. To avoid the modern family nightmare, a combination of cupboards, drawers and shelves is a great way to cover all bases. Eliminate clutter by creating custom fit storage for brooms, detergents, dirty laundry and ironing.
Style
Gone are the days when the laundry was a sad combination of a laundry sink and cheap lino/tiles. Benchtops and built-in cabinetry that match or complement your kitchen create a look of consistency and style. Although built-in washing machines aren’t a trend (yet?), cupboards are a far better option than open shelves to keep the laundry looking neat and streamlined.
Details
Floor-to-ceiling feature tiles aren’t just reserved for bathrooms; they can create opulence and stylish function in an often overlooked laundry. Built-in solutions such as washing and ironing hampers will keep the room feeling organised, even when the laundry pile is high. Air dryers are also a chic add-on that saves energy and money, while an extended benchtop can make sorting, folding and stacking a breeze.
Colours
While white is often the go-to colour choice, light greys and teak trimming can add interesting texture and visual appeal. White and stainless steel appliances will pop against hints of colour in the tiles and benchtops.
Store, sort and stack
The laundry doesn’t have to be a tiny cubicle; larger families will benefit from a larger laundry, as the extra space is perfect for storing assorted items from family members (think cricket bats and dirty soccer boots). However, smaller spaces don’t need to skimp on functionality either, with creatively designed cupboards making good use of odd and awkward spaces.
Doing the laundry might not be fun, but it doesn’t have to be an all-day chore either.
