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10 practical and stylish utility room ideas you’ll love
By Ellie Reeves | 21st August 2024 | 6 min read
Sometimes referred to as a laundry room or mudroom, a utility room serves as a dedicated area for storing household essentials, cleaning supplies, and those odds and ends that don’t have a place elsewhere. It’s the quietly confident, unsung hero that keeps our homes clean and clutter free. While it may not be the most glamorous room in the house, it’s undoubtedly one of the most functional. If you’re lucky enough to have one, these ideas for a utility room will help you design a space that’s both practical and stylish.
1. Choose a deep and durable sink
Your utility room tackles all sorts of messy tasks, from washing gardening tools to cleaning up after a DIY project. That’s why you need a deep, durable sink that can handle it all. A ceramic or composite quartz sink is ideal - sturdy, low-maintenance, and ready for heavy-duty use. Whether it's scrubbing muddy gear or soaking paintbrushes, a deep sink makes these chores effortless. Check out our guide to choosing a sink for more tips on selecting the perfect one for your utility room.
2. Disguise appliances behind cabinetry
Keep your utility room looking sleek by concealing appliances behind cabinets. By seamlessly integrating your washing machine and dryer into the design, you’ll achieve a polished, uncluttered look while ensuring everything you need is right at hand. It’s all about blending functionality with fabulous design!
3. Create a cosy seating area
If you’ve got the space, add a seating area to your utility room. A bar stool at the worktop or a bench with built-in storage offers a spot to sit and take a break between chores. Folding laundry becomes a much more pleasant task when you’re comfortably seated. And for those moments when the washing machine is on its final spin, why not relax with a good book?
4. Build a pet-friendly washing station
Turn your utility room into a haven for your furry friends by adding a pet bathing station. Think of a stylish white-tiled shower space, perfect for rinsing off muddy paws. Not only is it practical, but it also adds a unique touch to your home. Your pets will love it, and you’ll save the bathroom from getting splattered with mud!
5. Make use of vertical storage
Maximise every inch of your utility room by utilising vertical space. Wall-mounted storage solutions, like hooks for coats and shelving for laundry essentials, can free up valuable floor space. You can even hang your ironing board or store your vacuum cleaner on the wall to keep the room neat and organised. If you’re tight on space, consider adding a pegboard or magnetic rack to keep tools and other essentials within easy reach.
6. Brighten up with light colours
For smaller utility rooms, light colours are your best bet. Shades like grey, beige, cream, or soft pink can open up the space and make it feel larger. Add depth with dark accents – think black fixtures or a bold sink. Don’t forget, a durable, scrubbable paint is essential to keep your walls looking fresh, no matter how much wear and tear they see.
7. Add a splash of style with your splashback
Whether you prefer vibrant turquoise mosaics or sleek grey marble tiles, a stylish splashback can elevate your utility room’s look. It’s a chance to bring some personality into the space – go bold with patterns or keep it understated with classic designs. Browse our range of splashbacks and wall tiles to find the perfect fit for your utility room. Check out our swoon worthy splashback ideas for some more inspiration.
8. Embrace foldable solutions
Foldable items are your utility room’s best friend. A foldable clothes airer and a collapsible laundry basket save space when not in use. Narrow shoe cabinets with drop-down doors keep footwear tucked away without taking up precious room. Explore our range of laundry room accessories to find more space-saving solutions.
9. Transform your utility into a flexible workspace
Why limit your utility room to just laundry and storage? With a bit of creativity, it can double as a multifunctional space. Need a quiet spot to work on a project? Clear some worktop space, add a comfortable chair, and you’ve got yourself a temporary home office. Make it inviting with plants and wall art to boost productivity. If you’re looking for more home office ideas, check out our article for plenty of inspiration.
10. Choose durable and stylish flooring
Utility rooms see a lot of foot traffic, so it's important to choose flooring that’s both durable and easy to clean. Consider vinyl or durable composite flooring for a practical option that can withstand spills, mud, and heavy use. Choose a stylish pattern or natural stone effect to add visual interest while ensuring your utility room remains functional and easy to maintain.
We’re sure these 10 utility room ideas have sparked your interest! If you’re looking for more laundry room ideas, check out our range of laundry and ironing products to help with all your laundry needs.