Laundry Next to Kitchen: Practical and Stylish Design Ideas

Having a laundry area next to the kitchen may seem like an unusual choice, but with smart design ideas, it can work seamlessly and become a highly functional part of your home. Whether you’re dealing with a small space or are aiming for a more open-plan feel, combining your laundry and kitchen areas can help streamline your home’s layout. By considering storage solutions, clever designs, and stylish touches, you can make the most of this space while ensuring both areas remain practical and aesthetically pleasing.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to make the most of a laundry space next to your kitchen, creating a functional, stylish, and organized area.

1. Maximizing Space with Smart Layouts

When your laundry room is next to your kitchen, you need to focus on creating a layout that keeps both areas functional and doesn’t crowd the space. Here are some tips for making the most of the layout:

Separate Zones: Even though both areas are close together, it’s important to visually separate the kitchen and laundry. Use open shelving, a partial wall, or a sliding door to create a subtle division between the spaces without making the room feel closed off. This division can help maintain a clean, organized look.
Washer and Dryer Placement: Place your washer and dryer in a compact, efficient way to save space. Stackable washer and dryer units are perfect for tight spaces. Alternatively, you can hide the laundry appliances behind cabinetry or a decorative screen to keep the area neat.
Use the Kitchen Counter: If space allows, consider placing a countertop above your washer and dryer to create additional counter space in your kitchen and laundry area. This can be especially helpful for folding clothes or organizing laundry products.
Open Shelving for Storage: Use open shelving above the washer and dryer to store laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and other items you may need both in the laundry and kitchen. These shelves can also be used to store small kitchen appliances, freeing up cabinet space in the kitchen.

2. Streamlined Design: Keeping Both Spaces Cohesive

When you combine your laundry and kitchen, it’s important to maintain a cohesive design that flows well between the two spaces. Here’s how to ensure both areas feel like part of the same design:

Matching Cabinetry and Materials: Use the same cabinetry style, hardware, and materials in both spaces to create continuity. For example, if your kitchen has shaker-style cabinets, use similar cabinets for your laundry area. Matching finishes, like wood tones or glossy white cabinetry, will help unify the two areas.
Neutral Color Palette: Stick to a neutral color palette for both rooms to keep the space feeling open and harmonious. White, light gray, or beige can work well in both the kitchen and laundry, making it easy to switch up accent colors with accessories or décor items.
Consistency in Flooring: If possible, use the same type of flooring in both areas. For example, hardwood or tile floors that flow between the kitchen and laundry room create a seamless look. This makes the transition between the two spaces smoother and more visually appealing.
Integrated Appliances: Opt for built-in, integrated appliances that match the cabinetry. These will blend seamlessly into the kitchen and laundry area, reducing clutter and helping both spaces feel part of one unified design.

3. Creative Storage Solutions

Storage is one of the biggest challenges when combining a laundry area with a kitchen. However, with smart storage solutions, you can keep both spaces organized and functional.

Pull-Out Storage: Use pull-out baskets or drawers to store laundry essentials, like detergent, fabric softener, and cleaning supplies. These can be hidden in cabinets or underneath countertops, providing easy access while keeping the space tidy.
Cabinets with Open Shelving: Installing cabinets with open shelving above the washer and dryer can provide extra storage space for both laundry products and kitchen items like spices, pots, or small appliances. The open shelving adds a modern, accessible look while keeping everything organized.
Multi-Functional Furniture: Use multi-purpose furniture such as a foldable ironing board that fits into a cabinet or a utility cart with wheels that can be moved between the kitchen and laundry area. This type of furniture maximizes space while keeping both areas functional.
Overhead Shelving: Install shelves above the washer and dryer or even above the kitchen counter to store extra cleaning supplies, linens, or kitchen accessories. This vertical storage solution is ideal for smaller spaces.

4. Hidden Laundry Solutions

When your laundry is next to your kitchen, you might want to hide the laundry appliances to maintain the aesthetic appeal of the kitchen. Here are a few hidden solutions that can keep things discreet:

Cabinet Doors: Installing cabinetry with doors to enclose the washer and dryer can help maintain a sleek, cohesive look. The cabinet doors can be matched to the rest of the kitchen cabinetry, creating a seamless design where the laundry area is tucked away.
Sliding Doors or Panels: If you don’t want full cabinetry, consider sliding doors or panels that can easily conceal the washer and dryer when not in use. This allows you to quickly hide the appliances while keeping the design sleek and functional.
Curtains or Screens: For a low-cost, flexible solution, hang a curtain or a room divider to hide the laundry appliances. You can use a stylish fabric that complements your kitchen design, and it can easily be pulled back when needed.

5. Combining Laundry and Kitchen Functions

One of the benefits of having a laundry next to the kitchen is the ability to combine functions for maximum efficiency. Here are a few ways to make this work:

Integrated Laundry Stations: Consider adding a laundry station in a corner of the kitchen, especially if the space is large enough. This could include a sink for washing hands or pre-rinsing dishes, as well as shelving for cleaning products.
Drying Racks in the Kitchen: If you don’t have space for a dedicated drying rack, use a wall-mounted or retractable drying rack that can be pulled out in the kitchen when needed. This allows you to air-dry clothes without taking up valuable laundry space.
Smart Appliances: Modern appliances like smart washers and dryers can be linked to your phone, allowing you to monitor laundry cycles from the kitchen. These appliances can also be energy-efficient, saving you both space and money.
Laundry Folding Area: Consider adding a countertop or surface for folding clothes, which can also double as a kitchen counter for meal prep. This multifunctional space ensures both areas serve their purposes while avoiding clutter.

6. Add Personal Touches to the Space

Just because it’s a laundry area doesn’t mean it has to be purely functional. Adding personal and decorative elements can make the space feel inviting and pleasant.

Wall Art: Incorporate small artwork, prints, or decorative signs that reflect the personality of the space. Choose playful laundry-related prints or botanical art that adds warmth and color to the room.
Decorative Baskets: Use woven baskets or stylish storage bins to store laundry essentials or towels. These can add texture and style to the space while keeping things organized.
Textiles and Rugs: Add a colorful or patterned rug to the floor to inject personality into the space. A cozy rug also provides comfort underfoot, especially if you’re standing for long periods while doing laundry or meal prep.
Plants and Greenery: A few indoor plants can help freshen up the space and add a natural touch. Consider low-maintenance plants like succulents or a small herb garden to bring some greenery to your laundry-kitchen space.

FAQs

How can I make the laundry area blend in with the kitchen? Use matching cabinetry, similar finishes, and cohesive color schemes. Incorporating built-in appliances, like a washer/dryer combo unit, will help maintain a streamlined, integrated design.
What are some space-saving ideas for a small laundry and kitchen combo? Use stackable washer and dryer units, wall-mounted shelves, and compact appliances. Fold-down counters or wall-mounted ironing boards also save space while keeping the room functional.
How do I hide the washer and dryer in the kitchen? Install cabinetry with doors or use sliding panels or curtains to conceal the appliances. This keeps the laundry area discreet and prevents it from disrupting the kitchen’s design.
What is the best way to organize laundry supplies in a kitchen-laundry combo? Use baskets, bins, and open shelving to store laundry supplies and cleaning products. Pull-out drawers or cabinets with baskets help keep everything organized and within easy reach.
Can I use the kitchen sink as part of my laundry area? Yes! A deep utility sink in the kitchen can be used for washing delicate items or soaking laundry. Ensure it’s positioned near your washer for easy access and functionality.
What type of flooring works best for a laundry-kitchen combo? Choose durable, water-resistant flooring like vinyl, tile, or laminate. These materials are easy to clean and handle moisture from both the kitchen and laundry areas.
How can I add style to a laundry room next to the kitchen? Add personality with decorative baskets, stylish storage containers, and artwork. Use textiles like colorful towels, rugs, and curtains to bring warmth and style to the space.
Should I use open shelving or cabinets for a laundry-kitchen combo? A mix of both is often ideal. Open shelving can store frequently used items, while closed cabinets can hide less aesthetically pleasing items. Consider open shelving above the washer and dryer and cabinets for storage below.
How can I ensure good ventilation in a laundry-kitchen space? Ensure proper ventilation by installing an exhaust fan or keeping the area well-ventilated. If drying clothes indoors, consider a dehumidifier to prevent moisture buildup.
Can I use a washer/dryer combo in a small kitchen-laundry area? Yes! A washer/dryer combo unit is a great space-saving solution for a small kitchen-laundry area. It’s compact and combines both appliances in one unit, making it ideal for tight spaces.