A Load of Luxury

by Amy West

Taking its cue from today's luxury homes, the

laundry room is becoming more spacious,

stylish, and efficient-and it's about time.

Studies show that the average household does seven

to eight loads of laundry per week, and in a consumer

preference survey by the National Association of

Home Builders, 95 per cent of homebuyers rated a

separate laundry room as desirable or essential.

"Laundry rooms have changed dramatically over

the last few years," says Heather Segreti of Segreti

Designs. "They are no longer typically in the

basement or dungeon, but are being designed to fit

into the main-floor living areas off the kitchen or

pantry, as well as on the second floor where most of

the laundry is generated."

According to Segreti, the trend is towards

brighter rooms designed more like a kitchen. Unique

components that can be integrated with cabinets have

also become popular, since they make working in the

space very efficient.

"In terms of colour, watch for neutrals with hints of

the outdoors," says Segreti. "Celery green and pale

blue paired with earth tones are really hot right now."

In contrast to this look is a trend towards a more

modern laundry room-slick and clean with a

minimalist feel.

"Also, the trend is defiantly front-loading machines, both washers and dryers. Some of these machines can

be undermounted so that you can install a counter

overtop and make use of this space."

To update the look in your laundry room, Segreti suggests purchasing new appliances. But if that's not in your budget, a change of paint colour, new storage solutions, or simply tidying up goes a long way.

"Everything in its place," she says.

Laundry room décor and organization tips

Consider placing the laundry room near the largest source of dirty clothes. Often this is the master bedroom. A door leading from the laundry room to the master closet/dressing room is a major convenience.

Replace laminate counters with granite or other hard-surface materials.

Install custom or high-end cabinets that provide more storage space.

Add closets that hide appliances when not in use.

Increase the surface area for ironing and folding clothes.

Updated flooring options include vinyl or tile that coordinate with wall colours.

Placing insulation in the walls and floor of the laundry room will help reduce noise vibrations in adjoining rooms.