Laundry Renovation Guide

The laundry might not be the most talked-about room in the house, but most of us use it every other day. And since you’re using it so often, it makes sense to create a beautiful space you don’t mind spending time in.

The reality is, a smart laundry layout can make your chores feel… less like a chore.

We are going to walk you through how to plan a laundry renovation that works for you and run through some popular layouts. We’ll also help you pick out all the materials, fixtures and fittings you’ll need to bring it all together.

Planning your laundry room renovation

Planning any reno can feel like a big job, but breaking it down into simple steps helps keep things on track. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Weigh up what you’ve got

Start by taking a step back and scoping out your space. What works in your laundry and what doesn't? Could you change the layout to make it easier to use? Are there any design features you’re not a huge fan of?

2. Figure out your must-haves vs nice-to-haves

It’s key to strike a balance between function and aesthetics when designing the perfect laundry.

Organise the changes you want to make into must-haves (like a new laundry tap that doesn’t leak) and nice-to-haves (like new cabinets). Knowing what features are most important stops you from overspending.

3. Work out your budget

Once you’ve figured out your priorities, it’s time to plan your budget. If you’re renovating on a tight budget, your must-haves list should lead the way.

Just remember, for more permanent changes, like installing a new sink or tiling, cutting corners may lead to headaches later on. Always invest in high-quality materials and professional trades so your laundry renovation is done properly.

4. Choose a style

Your laundry should work with the rest of your home. Factor in the room’s size and your budget in the design phase. We’ve got a helpful article on laundry room ideas with inspiration pics to steer you in the right direction when it comes to your design vision.

5. Understand the technical parts

Before getting to work on your new laundry renovation, wrap your head around the local council requirements and building regulations. Get advice from a licensed professional, and if it’s going to be a major reno, make sure to get the council's approval early on to avoid headaches or delays later.

Popular laundry layouts

A successful laundry room renovation means being realistic about what features will fit in the space. If you’re working with a small laundry, focus on clever storage and creating an inviting space.

Here’s a closer look at some common laundry room layouts:

• Galley style: Everything’s placed against two parallel walls, leaving a corridor in the middle.
• Single-wall: Everything’s placed against one wall, which is great for small laundry spaces.
• L-shaped: This puts your washer and dryer on the long wall and your sink on the shorter, which can help with flow.
• European: European layouts place your washing machine, sink and storage into a small cupboard or nook to save space.

Plan your laundry layout around how you actually use the space. At the very least, you’ll need a place for folding and sorting, a washing machine (and optional dryer) and a sink.

Whichever setup you choose, it’s important to include proper ventilation, especially for dryers, and leave space around appliances for safety, airflow and servicing.

Choosing features for your laundry renovation

When renovating your laundry, picking the right features is key to making the space work hard and look good. From sinks to storage, each element plays a part in creating an easy-to-use room you enjoy spending time in.

Sink

Ideally, laundry sinks should be deep enough to allow for soaking and hand washing. If you often find yourself doing big loads, you could even go for a double sink.

When it comes to materials, stainless steel is tough and easy to clean, while ceramic or porcelain sinks add a bit of style.

If you're replacing an existing sink in the same spot, it's usually straightforward. However, you’ll need extra plumbing work done if you want to move it. Make sure you check what’s behind the walls and under the floor before you jump into bigger projects.

Tapware and hardware

One of the most important things to think about is what you need your laundry tap to do beyond just filling the sink. Some have pull-out functions, which can make it easier to rinse out stains and clean out the sink.

It’s important not to overlook the little details like cabinet handles and hooks - when the finishes match, it makes a big difference in how seamless the design of your laundry looks.

Check out our range of high-quality laundry tapware and accessories, available in hardwearing finishes like Chrome, Warm Brushed Nickel, Brushed Brass, Antique Brass, Gunmetal and Matte Black.

Tiles

Tiles are a smart choice for laundry walls and floors as they’re durable, easy to clean and protect against moisture. Whether you go for full wall and floor coverage or just a backsplash behind the sink, they add a practical layer that stands up to the daily wear and tear of laundry life. Plus, with so many styles and colours to pick from, you are able to pick something that fits in with your design style.

Bench

Your laundry bench is where a lot of the action happens, like folding clothes and sorting them into lights and darks. It needs to be tough enough to handle daily use and easy to keep clean. Popular materials include laminate, acrylic and timber.

Also think about how much space you need and whether you want the bench to extend over appliances to create an uninterrupted surface.

Storage

Keeping up with the washing often comes with mess, so including plenty of storage can limit clutter.

Making the most of vertical space is important, particularly in smaller laundries. Overhead shelves keep your benches clear and items out of the way, while cupboards are the go for hiding bulky items or the things you’d rather not see.

A laundry to love

It’s about time you give your laundry a little more attention. Be clear on what you need, what your space can handle and what elements are worth spending more on.

Feeling unsure about where to start with your laundry room renovation? Book a design appointment and our expert team can walk you through some options so you can make informed decisions every step of the way.