How to Incorporate a Laundry Area into a Tiny Bathroom
You can wash your clothes and keep them organized even in a small space
Unlike spacious homes where owners have the freedom to create a laundry room or wash clothes at the back of the house, condo dwellers have limited options. Aside from keeping the washer in the kitchen, many owners store their laundry essentials in the bathroom. This move seems practical, as given the steps involved in washing clothes, the T&B is the best place to tackle the task in a high-rise home. But how do you exactly turn a section of the bathroom into a functional laundry nook? Do you simply place the washer in the corner and use it when needed?
In a condo unit we’ve featured, interior designer Angelica Dumalus was able to create a picture-perfect laundry corner while still keeping the bathroom airy and spacious. “In my mind, I wanted to showcase this space. I wanted it to be used and make it a part of the bathroom, as opposed to hiding and tucking it in a corner. Regardless of the space you have, you can do a lot. It’s just a matter of planning everything out,” she shares. Learn how you can do the same in a small space with these reminders from the interior designer:
Take note of the size of the T&B you’re working with.
The 34sqm unit Angelica worked on features a roomy bathroom which was quite surprising given the size of the condo. According to the designer, it measures roughly around 5sqm, with a 2.20m x 2.30m dimension. If you’re unsure about making measurements, consult with a design professional. It also helps to have their expertise if you’re planning to embark on a renovation project. To guide you, Angelica notes having a footprint of 80cm x 80cm where you can place the washer and dryer as a good place to start.
Familiarize yourself with the requirements needed in a laundry area.
It’s not enough that you have a washer, a dryer, and the essentials needed—though these are all crucial. “Most importantly, you’ll need to have provisions for your washer and dryer, specifically, a waterline (faucet), a drain, and an electric outlet before converting a space into a laundry area. In a condo, the developer will provide one for you. Normally, you’ll find this inside your T&B or sometimes, it’s adjacent to your kitchen area. From there, you’ll need to have storage for your laundry supplies in order to have a functional space. Once you have all of these items down, you’re on your way to creating a smart and practical laundry setup,” explains Angelica.
Make the most of the available space.
The designer notes working toward a spacious and well-rounded setup. “In the bathroom I worked on, I noticed that the shower was quite big and can afford to lend its space to our laundry area. I reduced the shower footprint to around 90cm x 90cm. Freeing up the space gave room to the movable hamper (to sort the white, dark, and light clothes), open shelving, and laundry table for folding and sorting clothes. If you have the luxury of floor space, you can also integrate more storage provision for your hamper as well. Otherwise, you can maximize your vertical wall space above your washer/dryer as an open shelf or cabinet for your laundry supplies,” Angelica shares.
Expert Advice: In some condo units, location can be a challenge. “Most condo dwellers don’t have the luxury of relocating. I would advise them to embrace it and work with it. Don’t think of it as an eyesore, but rather, treat is an opportunity to create a practical working area. Make it intentional and as a part of your home’s design,” the designer adds.
The available vertical space can help solve your storage problems.
Open shelves, rods, and hooks can help create storage for detergents, fabric softeners, and bins. “Keep a system of organization. Using uniformed baskets or bins to minimize clutter and to add visual interest to your space will make it more inviting for you to use it. Adding a worktop not only adds functionality, but also helps anchor and define your space,” suggests Angelica.
Ready for your home makeover? Get in touch with interior designer Angelica Dumalus through email at angelicadumalus[at]gmail.com.
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