Utility
Fit modular shelving Wall cabinets can encroach on a space, which is not good in a compact utility room. Opt for simple shelving that houses boxes, baskets and hanging rails, giving your multiple storage options. This can be sourced online from a trade supplier, making it an economical as well as a flexible option.
Hang a long rail This contemporary utility room in Oxfordshire was also popular with Houzzers and more than 5,000 of you saved this photo to your ideabooks. The sleek floor-to-ceiling cupboards and built-in washing machine and dryer ensure the space is calm and uncluttered, and the rail above the sink area is a useful place to hang freshly ironed clothes. What do you think of these utility room designs? Tell us in the Comments below.
Ventilate the cupboards If you’re worried that clothes stored in a cupboard will become musty, drill some holes in the door. These bespoke cupboards have a triangle of holes at the top to aerate the laundry and coats inside. The items remain sweet smelling, rather than stale. TELL US… What do you think of these utility rooms? Do you have some other favourites on Houzz? Share your thoughts and photos in the Comments below.
Opt for adjustable shelving It pays to be precise with your measurements when planning a utility space, but it’s also important to include more flexible storage. This boot cupboard is a great example of how adjustable shelves can accommodate the changing needs of your household. The shelves can be moved up and down the slats depending on the size of the boots. So when the children need bigger boots, the shelf height can be changed to make room.
Plan your storage Practical storage is one of the most important aspects of a utility room. If you’re fitting out the space from scratch, it’s worth commissioning a joiner to plan storage cupboards for your exact requirements. Allow space for taller, bulkier items, such as the vacuum cleaner, ironing board and mop, and include a cupboard shelf large enough to hold your ironing basket, so items to be ironed are close by when the job needs to be tackled.
Utilise racks and rails In a compact space with a regular-height ceiling, a wall-mounted airer can be a convenient alternative to the traditional ceiling-mounted design. Heated options are also available, making the business of drying clothes quick and efficient. Check out more compact utility rooms on Houzz
Plan out your space If you have the luxury of a separate utility room, put it to good use by including a separate sink for hand-washing. With cupboards above and below for storing washing powder and laundry essentials, and painted a soft shade of grey, this room is a self-contained and calm work area. Looking to create a utility area in your house? Or have you carved one out already? Share your thoughts and tips in the Comments below.
Introduce a dark shade Who says the utility room needs to be bland and boring? It’s not usually the most glamorous of spaces, but you can add some creative cool by daubing the walls in a dark shade of grey. Most of us place our washing machine on the floor, but elevating it to a more ergonomic height offers storage space beneath and will make it more comfortable to load. Check out more ideas for introducing dark shades into your home
Use warm-hearted tones A palette of rich aubergine, gold and off-white will wrap your living room in a cocoon-like ambience. There’s no need to overhaul every inch of your room – just a quick lick of berry coloured paint on one wall and a pile of comfy cushions on the seating, and it’s ‘goodbye summer, hello winter’.
Fit modular shelving Wall cabinets can encroach on a space, which is not good in a compact utility room. Opt for simple shelving that houses boxes, baskets and hanging rails, giving your multiple storage options. This can be sourced online from a trade supplier, making it an economical as well as a flexible option.
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