White wash

This utility room is anything but utilitarian with its form-equals-function treatment

View of white laundry with white cabinetry, contemporary cabinetry, countertop, home, interior design, kitchen, laundry room, property, real estate, room, yellow — View of white laundry with white cabinetry, contemporary glass topped table and flat screen table.

Of all the rooms in the house, the laundry is the most likely to suffer from a major case of afterthought when it comes to design. And yet, a well-conceived laundry room can rise above day-to-day functional applications.

Every aspect concerning the design and layout of this laundry room was executed in close consultation with the clients, says interior designer Jim Laney.

"The house is located within one of the country's premier ski destinations. So as well as having to accommodate the day-to-day needs of the owners, during the season there is the additional matter of boots and outerwear that need to be dried every evening."

Dubbed command central', the laundry room is also used for wrapping packages and gifts and for flower arranging.

"Much like a kitchen is divided into work zones, so too have I divided the laundry," says Laney. "On the left-hand wall are the cupboards and drawers associated with laundry the six drawers act as laundry hampers, each with a different designation."

On the right, Laney designed a mix of portfolio-style drawers to hold items such as ribbons and wrapping paper, while the larger drawers and some of the cupboards hold floristry items and vases. Cleaning items are also stored here.

"In keeping with the rest of the house, which is very contemporary in its design, I wanted to create a room that was very streamlined and integrated. Having a place for everything means the space is also pleasant to spend time in. Quirky accessories add whimsy, and are an unexpected, yet welcome, surprise."