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See how to combine design and functionality with these small laundry room ideas. We’ll cover laundry room decor and shelving, along with ways to add color and your own personal style.
I’m very excited to finally share my latest project. It’s taken a few months to complete, but it was worth the wait! I’m referring to my boring and bland laundry room. It’s tiny, and has three doors, so wall space is very limited. It was low on functional storage space, and I absolutely hated that the washer hookups were visible.
Form and Function
The first issue I needed to address was improving the functionality of the cabinets. Their shallow depth made them challenging to use effectively, and I never took the time to organize them properly when we moved in. The small counter to the left of the dryer (shown above) had become a magnet for clutter, so it was clear that it had to go.
Initially, I planned to replace both the upper and lower cabinets to the left of the dryer with a tall pantry cupboard featuring slide-out shelves. However, after receiving the estimate, I quickly pivoted to plan B! For half the cost, the upper cabinet was removed and replaced with a taller unit that sits directly on the quartz countertop. To tie everything together, the existing cabinets above the washer and dryer were raised to align with the new piece.
Adding Functional Laundry Room Shelving
One of my least favorite features of this laundry room was the exposed washer hookups. They were such an eyesore. I knew adding a shelf could solve the problem, so I turned to the internet for inspiration. After finding a few ideas I loved, I shared them with my handyman, who came up with a brilliant custom solution. The shelf not only hides the hookups, but also adds a touch of style and functionality to the space.
He truly transformed the space by covering the wall above the shelf with beadboard, adding trim for a polished look, and installing the shelf itself. After giving it a first coat of paint, I stepped in to apply the second coat. To complete the refresh, I also painted the underside of the cabinets, tying the entire look together. (If you are wondering, the shelf is removable so the washer hookups can be easily accessed. He used 3 of these brackets, but did not attach them to the shelf. The vertical trim pieces on each end hold the shelf in place.)
Small Laundry Room Decor Tips for a Stylish Finish
I knew I wanted to incorporate color into the space, and naturally, I gravitated toward blue. To really make a statement, I decided to take a leap of faith and add wallpaper. I also found small but impactful ways to add my personal style into this tiny area.
- The Wallpaper: I chose a pattern called Willowberry (in blue) from Rifle Paper Co. I ordered a sample, and while it took some time to decide, I ultimately went for it. Since I can’t hang wallpaper myself, I hired a professional who used the traditional glue method. For those interested, the pattern is also available in a peel-and-stick option.
- The Artwork: With just one piece of wall big enough to hang a picture, I knew I wanted something with a vintage touch. After some searching, I found a print of a woman hanging laundry. I framed it myself, and it fits the wall beautifully.
- Shelf Accessories: The current items on the shelf are decorative, but not especially functional. I have no doubt they’ll change frequently as I experiment with different looks.
- The Rug: To tie everything together, I added a rug featuring various shades of blue.
So once again, here is the before:
And here is the after:
From start to finish, this project took about three months, much of which was spent waiting. I waited for the new cabinet to arrive, then for it to be installed, and finally for the wallpaper guy to work his magic. Though the process required patience, every moment was worth it. Now, the joy I feel every time I step into this space—or even just pass through it—is immeasurable. This once-overlooked and boring laundry room has become a bright, cheerful spot that brings a sense of calm and happiness to my daily routine. It’s a reminder that even the smallest spaces can have a big impact when given a little extra care.
When I think about this project, what stands out most is how every decision, big or small, was an opportunity to make this space truly mine. From choosing a colorful wallpaper to finding the perfect vintage-inspired print, each element feels personal and intentional. It’s proof that even a practical room like a laundry space can be elevated into something special with a little creativity and effort.
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- Cabinets: KraftMaid Shaker – Dove White
- Paint: Sherwin Williams Snowbound
- Wallpaper
- Laundry print
- Silver frame
- Dough bowl (similar)
- Striped towels
- Basket tray (similar)
- Laundry pod holder
- Dryer sheet holder
- Rug
I was also reminded to embrace the journey, not just the result. The waiting, the decisions, and even the moments of uncertainty were all part of bringing my ideas to life. Now, this space isn’t just functional, it’s a place that inspires me every day, and reminds me that small changes can make a big difference. If there’s one takeaway I’d share, it’s this: don’t be afraid to dream big, even in the smallest spaces. You might just create your favorite room in the house.
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This was an awesome reno!
Looks great! Nice space to do laundry in…a necessary chore!
Such a great space! I’m wondering if the dryer door could be flipped to make it open easier to the washer?
Hi Colleen…the dryer door opens all the way so it’s flat against the front of the washer. It’s not in the way at all!
Hi Ann,
It looks beautiful! I just wondered where you store your laundry basket? Happy New Year! Liz
Hi Liz…there is no place to store laundry baskets. There is a coat closet, but it’s not a practical place to keep them. So we keep them in our master closet. There’s plenty of room in there, and they are out of the way. Thanks!
What a lovely laundry room! I agree with you. Why not make every space lovely if possible. I had mine painted a fun color of lavender. I also found a picture of my mom hanging clothes on the line that I had enlarged and hung it in there.
I wonder if you could share the dimensions of your laundry room? How wide, wall to wall and how long from the door to back wall? Thank you?
Hi Marguerite! The laundry room measures 78 inches long, and 75 inches wide. So it’s almost square. Thank you!
Your laundry room is beautiful. Love it
Great job! In fact, one of the top laundry room makeovers that seems useful as well as lovely!
Love your new space! It’s absolutely beautiful. At least it’ll be more enjoyable for laundry days! I’m saving this post for wallpaper, the cabinets, the shelf behind the washer and dryer, etc., etc!
It is absolutely beautiful. You were brave with the wallpaper, but I love it.
Ann, I love how your laundry room came out. I can see why it brings you joy. The waiting is not easy, but so worth it.
Your laundry room looks beautiful. Wonderful job and I love the wallpaper and the art you found.
Karen B.
Ann,
Your new laundry room is amazing; so adorable!
Thanks for sharing.
Peggy
Ann, This is absolutely gorgeous. You always surprise me with your ideas. Definitely rethinking our laundry room after seeing your pictures. Enjoy your beautiful room🧺
Hi Ann,
Oh my heaven, I love love love your laundry room. It looks amazing and I am sure you must swoon over it every time you go in there. That was a great idea
to cover your connectors. I didn’t like that either so I hung a little curtain back
there, but the shelf adds room to put something decorative, so like that idea.
Pretty wallpaper. Enjoy!!
Hope you had a good Christmas and 2025 will be a great year for you,
Blessings, Nellie
I love it! I actually probably wouldn’t mind doing laundry if it looked cheerful like that. I’ll have to work on that. I have a much worse situation with the laundry hookup. The laundry hookups were in the garage on a back wall that backed up to the outdoor space. He busted through and built on a laundry room with a sunroom added to it. He actually did a good job. However, the hook up is really bizarre with a pipe shooting straight up. When I have a new washer delivered they actually say they can’t hook it up as it’s not standard hook up. But they’re nice enough to do it anyway. I wish I had a way to hide it.
The laundry room looks beautiful! That wallpaper is so pretty!
A Beautiful Change!
Congratulations! It’s beautiful. The wallpaper is gorgeous.
This space came out beautiful! I love how you hid the washer and dryer hookup!
Wonderful. Your attention to detail was obviously critical to the positive result. This would make doing laundry a pleasure!
I love this wallpaper. Do you think it would be a good choice for a bathroom?
Thank you!
HI Maria…yes, I think it would be a great choice for a bathroom! It also comes in a few other colors, if blue isn’t what you’re looking for. Thank you!
The wallpaper is perfect, the shelving is perfect, the function is perfect. A perfect transformation!
I love love love it! You have put together a lovely space. Bravo. .oozing forward to seeing what you share this year.
Love the wallpaper, shelf, and picture! One of the first things I do when I move is to look for places to add pictures. It certainly makes your washing a joy instead of a job!!
Love the way you transformed your laundry room. Looks beautiful!! It almost makes you want to do laundry!
Beautiful transformation!
Your laundry room is beautiful! I love the color and the choices you made. Now I’m thinking what can I do to mine?
I love the transformation, and you have given me some ideas to make in our laundry room. The wallpaper really makes it! Nice job!
Omg, It turned out so beautiful! I’ve been wanting a redo in my washroom. This has truly inspired me. Thank you for sharing. 💙
You’ve created such a lovely space.
I really, really love this! You are a very gifted lady!
What a beautiful laundry room.
You must love doing wash now.
I love the shelf. What a great idea to hide all those nasty plugs and hoses.
Oh my goodness! Love that wallpaper. It turned out fabulous.
Beautiful! Love everything about it!
So pretty and so you! You are always patient and it pays off.
This is so inspirational! What a difference it makes in your laundry room. It looks amazing!
An amazing transformation. I love the wallpaper.
Is the hookup behind the headboard? How will you access it if needed?
Hi Peg! The shelf is removeable so the hookups can be easily accessed if needed. My handyman used metal shelf brackets, but did not attach them to the shelf. The vertical trim pieces on each end hold the shelf in place. I added this explanation to the post, so thank you for asking!
WOWSER!! That’s amazing! Love it! I have the same “old” washer and dryer set and when we looked for a set for our daughter we looked for the same set.
Beautiful space. My laundry room is also a walkthrough to the garage on a slightly smaller scale than yours. I ended up painting it but had toyed with papering it but thought it would be overwhelming. Your photos show it’s not. It’s a lovely space.
Your laundry room looks beautiful! Thanks for sharing it. Wish I could do something similar. My wash & dryer are in the basement on a wall covered with silver insulation paper. I did install a shelf above. It’s functional but there is nothing beautiful about it.
I know exactly how you feel. When we lived on Sutton Place, my washer and dryer were in our unfinished basement. I had a shelf as well, but it was definitely not pretty!
My washer and dryer are located in our utility room which can only be accessed from our carport….which means I have to go outdoors to access it (makes me pretty sure a man designed this house!!!!). So it’s a very plain space that also houses the water heater, garden tools, etc. There is almost no space for pictures/art work…..but I’ve managed to find about 3 tiny spaces for some small prints of vintage washers, etc. When I see gorgeous laundry rooms like this post, it makes me almost envious but at the same time I’ve very happy for you, Ann. Love the wallpaper. Enjoy!!!!!
Beautiful room Ann. Your right, small changes, some bold color and a huge transformation!
I LOVE the whole look but especially the wallpaper. I have a small guest bath and this encourages me to be bold and add wallpaper there!
I absolutely love your wallpaper selection! You have truly transformed this space! Bravo!
Love !! To pretty to be a laundry room !! Great job Ann !!