Project House Insight: 3 Tips for Organized Laundry & M

Laundry and mudroom design can be tricky. You have to factor in many details into these high-use spaces so you can maximize function.

Laundry and mudrooms should not only have durable surfaces and plenty of storage, but they should also be designed so well you’ll actually want to spend your time there. Because mudrooms and laundry rooms both have similar needs, they work well as a combined, multipurpose space.

Here are some tips and tricks from Scissortail Homes builder Lindsay Morris and our Project House designer Rachel Shingleton for creating a stylish, multifunctional laundry room/mudroom that works for you.

laundry and mudroom design by Rachel Shingleton. Soft green cabinets are complimented by brass hardware — The laundry room/ mudroom combo in Project House 2020 is streamlined yet stylish. Rachel chose a stunning green which gives this small room character. Lighting from Golden Lighting and floors from Cherokee Brick signal that this is no-less well appointed than any other room in the house. Photo by Mel Willis. Styled by Rachel Shingleton.

Open and concealed storage

Make it easy to keep your mudroom/laundry room neat and tidy by providing enough storage. One tip is to have a variety of open and concealed storage options.

Whether you have storage pieces custom-built or you find the perfect storage furniture, open cubbies and lockers are the perfect way to give each member of your family a place for coats, backpacks, and more.

Laundry and mudroom design ideas: Laundry room with brick floors and subway tile — Open shelving keeps items at easy reach and provides an opportunity to add decorative elements. Photo by Ridgelight Studios. Styled by Molly Ferrante.

For other items you’d prefer to hide away, concealed storage is just the thing. Concealed storage can be cabinetry or a storage piece with doors and ample space.

“That’s a great way to throw things like a vacuum, broom or beach towels that you need handy but you don’t want it [to be visible] every day,” says Lindsey. “You can even add an outlet in there for a hand-held vacuum.”

Decorative workspace

While your laundry and mudroom design may need to take utility into account, that doesn’t mean it can’t be beautiful.

Include enough workspace for folding laundry or spot-treating stained clothes, but make add a designer touch to every detail.

For example, a slim wall shelf is practical for storing your laundry detergents and stain removers. Select a finish like natural wood tones to add a warm personality to the space.

Cabinets with a counter above give you more room to work. Be sure to choose a countertop surface that’s equally durable and attractive. Cabinet doors with beadboard can bring cottage charm to your space.

Laundry and mudroom design ideas: mudroom area with shiplap walls, a striped built in bench cushion and modern floral pillows — Textiles from window coverings or seating are prime real estate for adding style to these small spaces. AJ Olsen Whitfield chose a striking stripe for her mudroom area for a touch of punch and color. Photo by Bret Gum. Styled by Jickie Torres.

Laundry and Mudroom Design: Small storage ideas

Mind the little details in your space such as small storage ideas to contain your clutter. When it comes to laundry and mudroom designs, make it neat and make it pretty.

For wall hooks and towel racks to hang laundry to dry, pick out ones with decorative elements that mesh with your overall decor. And for all items that you want out on display all the time, make sure it’s just as lovely to look at as it is useful.

laundry and mudroom design with open shelves above the machines — Don’t let small spaces deter you from customizing your storage. Use a mix of methods to tailor your tools to your space.

“Contain, contain, contain. Get as much in baskets or bins as much as possible,” suggests Rachel Shingleton of Pencil Shavings Studio. “Think outside the box and get yourself a pretty glass soap dispenser, even if you’re using regular old soap. Use interesting containers for laundry pods and a fun lazy susan. They’re really useful in spaces like this so you have everything on hand.”

Looking for more ideas for your laundry and mudroom design? Check out this post on how to infuse high function into your laundry room.