Fresh approach

You can never have too much storage is a common adage, and it is especially true of more contemporary houses with sleek, uncluttered interiors. Much of this storage is now provided in the laundry.

Designer Royston Wilson, who designed the laundries featured on these pages, says the modern laundry has changed significantly from the small room of the past.

"Traditionally, laundries are positioned along one wall with a broom cupboard, overhead shelving and a glass door to the outside. Today, they have a very different role to play. Many people are wanting a much larger space that functions as a mud room. It's often positioned near a pool, so children running in from outside can drop their wet gear. I have even been asked for three linen bins, so clothes and linen can be sorted before washing."

Wilson says these larger laundries are not as invisible as in the past many are decorated in vibrant colour schemes.

"Larger laundries are also used as utility rooms, and are often adjacent to the kitchen. Having plenty of storage, they can accommodate larger kitchen items that may be used less frequently, such as breadmakers, large mixers, icecream makers and jars for preserves."

Not surprisingly, laundries also have plenty of bench space for sorting and folding washing. But Wilson says built-in ironing boards are not necessarily included.

"People seldom want to do the ironing in the laundry, so folding ironing boards that can be moved easily are still the most popular option. However, we are getting more requests for drying cabinets in addition to the standard washer and dryer. Shirts, for example, can be hung to dry overnight the cabinets have ducted heating so there is a continuous air flow."

Wilson says that in homes where space is at a premium, laundries are small.

"The laundry-in-a-cupboard concept still works and can be the best solution. Often, there is no need for a sink. And, although most people still prefer to dry clothes outside when possible, others want full laundry facilities on an upper floor beside the bedrooms. Laundry chutes are also popular for new homes."

Story by: Trendsideas