Laundry Room Redo

The functionality of the laundry room/space/closet in a home is now officially at the top of my must have list. A non-functional laundry space is frustrating, messy and just annoying...well for at least for me it is.

A few must haves for an organized and user friendly laundry space include:
- A counter/flat surface space for folding, sorting etc.
- Ample storage for detergents and dryer sheets.

And if you're really lucky, it may even include a space to hang/air dry clothing and an ironing station, maybe a place for recyclables too? That would be perfect!

Here are the before and afters of my laundry space. As you can see, the before had no storage, no where to fold, was messy and just unpretty!

 

I'm so happy with the transformation and the new space. I was able to add storage for cleaning supplies and  a place for folding, or for dropping bags while running in and out the door. The picnic basket was a Christmas gift, I thought it much too pretty to hide away in storage. And the old washboard came from my boyfriend`s family and adds a bit of character and interest to what can most times be a mundane space.

The new washer and dryer were definitely an investment (actually, they ended up being a gift from my boyfriend for our two years...he obviously knows my very well!), but I was able to sell the old washer and dryer online which helped.

Both the cabinets and counter top are from Home Depot and were on for a really great price.I took the counter top to a local cabinetry store to get it cut down to size.

My favorite feature of this makeover is the space behind the curtain where I now keep Penelope`s litter.  I had absolutely no where to put it before then. I took the doors off the cabinet, left the shelf there for storage, used some leftover fabric to sew the curtain and hung it with a tension rod from Wal-Mart. I also really like how the curtain and baskets add a country chic and personal look to the space which ties in with the rest of the house.
 
Here are some more after shots.

 

Eventually I hope to paint this area as well...but for now the space is functional and organized and I`m enjoying doing laundry for a change!

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