More than a laundry

This large laundry makes light work of washday chores. It also comes into its own as a food prep area for caterers

view of this laundry that doubles as a cabinetry, countertop, interior design, kitchen, real estate, room, gray, white — view of this laundry that doubles as a second kitchen, showing tiled flooring , sinks abd storage cupboards

view of the table and chair the provides ceiling, interior design, living room, property, real estate, room, window, gray

view of the laundry that also incorporate shelving bookcase, furniture, interior design, shelf, shelving, white

Concealing laundry facilities within a kitchen is a common design feature, particularly in smaller homes. Placing kitchen facilities in the laundry is not so common but there are advantages.

This large laundry is part of the major refurbishment of a country house. As the owners like to entertain, the laundry was designed as a second food prep and washing up area for caterers.

Owner and interior designer Gen Hoggsays the laundry is positioned near a driveway, so caterers' vans can pull up beside the door. With plenty of bench space, two large sinks, a wastemaster and an integrated refrigerator, the laundry doubles as a second kitchen.

"Much of the behind-the-scenes work is undertaken here, rather than in the kitchen," says Gen Hogg.

Laundry facilities are not compromised, however. The space includes plenty of storage for linen and cleaning equipment. A large wicker basket beneath a bench stores the ironing.

The laundry also includes a towel warmer and a stainless steel drying rack. A breezeway beyond the laundry door is also used to dry washing.

The laundry incorporates shelves for gardening books and a table beside the window, which is frequently used for flower arranging.

As this is a country house, provision has been made for the animals on the property.A shower stall just off the laundry has a small table for washing the mud off the dogs. There is also designated laundrystorage for horse cleaning equipment.