Small Laundry Renovations

Laundry renovations often require basic construction skills, plumbing knowledge and electrical work. But there are plenty of low-cost ways to refresh the room.

DIY projects like painting and a simple framed artwork are budget friendly ways to change up a laundry room. Consider striped penny tile floors too.

Changing plumbing can significantly increase your renovation costs, so make sure to talk to plumbers before moving anything around. Also, opt for flat-pack cabinets to reduce installation costs.

Layout

Often overlooked when it comes to design, the small laundry renovations can become an extension of your home’s aesthetic. As such, it’s not hard to transform a functional space into one that is also stylish.

Choose durable materials for benchtops and walls that are moisture-resistant and easy to clean. This helps your renovation last longer and can save on costly repairs in the future.

Consider a tile backsplash under the sink for protection from splashes and stains, as well as decorative elements like framed art to personalise your space. Consider if you’ll be using your laundry as a mudroom and factor in space for a clothesline or a boot rack.

Lighting

Lighting is often overlooked in laundry rooms, and a few simple upgrades can improve the space dramatically. A good solution is to add downlights, which provide ambient and task lighting.

If your laundry room has a small window, it may be a good idea to invest in blinds to help diffuse the light and soften the look of the space. If your laundry room doesn't have a window, consider adding roof lights or sun tunnels to brighten the space.

Swapping out cabinet pulls is another easy and cost-effective way to update the look of your laundry room. Choose stylish designs in fun colors or simplistic metals for a modern look.

Appliances

Whether you’re renovating an existing laundry or starting from scratch, planning the layout is key. It’s important to consider the capacity of washing machines and dryers, bench space and storage.

Look for front-loading appliances that can be stacked to save floor space. Adding a

small window will also boost natural light levels.

Choosing a bright, cheerful wallpaper can elevate this hard-working space. Choose a solid latex or canvas-backed option to keep it durable in this high-traffic room.

Flooring

If your laundry room is a space that you use frequently, it’s important to consider durable flooring. The floor you choose should be moisture-resistant, hardy and aesthetically pleasing.

Vinyl is a cheap and easy-to-install option that’s completely waterproof, which is ideal for a laundry room. It can also be made to look like wood or stone for a more appealing aesthetic.

Tile is another great option, Granville says. It’s easy to clean and has a timeless style that will stand the test of time. However, it can be slippery, so it’s best to use tiles with a low-slip surface. Also, natural stones are porous and can absorb water, so be careful with them in wet areas.

Cabinetry

When you’re stuck with a drab and cramped laundry renovations room, adding cabinetry can transform the space into a clean and organised zone. Choosing neutral tones like white is a safe option, but if you want to bring in some personality, try a moody navy or even add a tile backsplash.

Flowing custom joinery creates an attractive backdrop for washing machines and dryers, while a matching backsplash adds colour and texture. Open shelving above laundry appliances provides a spot to stash baskets and lower cabinets stow extra supplies and knick-knacks. A splash of paint and framed art personalize this functional small laundry renovation from Home Made by Carmona.

Tapware

Just like the bathroom and kitchen, laundry tapware can really make or break the look of a room. Choosing tapware in complementary finishes can help bring the space together and ensure it blends seamlessly into your home, says Balnei & Colina.

If you have young children consider opting for tapware with a shiny finish as they are easier to wipe down – a huge benefit if your laundry is often used by little hands! You can find a wide range of laundry products from Ross’s Discount Home Centre to suit any budget.