Sep 4

Sep 4 Lovin' my Laundry Room

I've been jonesing for a decent, even (gasp!) pretty laundry room for a long time. Being a family of five means I spend a lot of quality time with the washer and dryer, so my wishes are justified, right?

Many of the homes in our area have a utility space in the basement, so I'm grateful ours is a legit laundry room on our main floor. However, when we moved in, the layout made zero sense. The washer and dryer were up against the side wall, partially blocking the window. In what was a new "oh, that's...interesting," the drain tube from the washer was zip-tied (classy, right?) to the utility sink faucet, so each time the machine emptied, it splattered water everywhere. Last but not least, there was a wire-style shelf attached to the right wall. I'm vertically challenged, but every time I'd do laundry, the clean clothes that were hanging on the bar of the shelf batted me in the head.

So, yeah, me and the laundry room were going to have a come-to-Jesus.

First, I'll address our machines: Rarely do you see top-loading machines in those awe-inspiring utility room pics, but ours came with the house, and the washer is brand new. I would love a front-loader, so I could put a folding counter on top, but I'm gun shy. I've had several servicemen say front loaders are finicky. I can't deal with a temperamental wash machine, so for now, top loaders are where it's at in the Giese compound.

Layout Change: Clearly, the solution to the problem was to flip the washer and dryer to the back wall, then add storage, etc above. First, we had a plumber install what I believe to be a "proper" water connection and drain box on the back wall. We also had to close up the old, and cut a new dryer vent.

Next, we dealt with the floors. I considered painting the old linoleum in a fun pattern, but when I saw a box of vinyl wood planks for like, fifty bucks, I went for it. Ben installed them like some kind of pro. I think it took less than three hours.

Disclosure: I was aiming for a "look," but not to spend a ton on this room. I was really pleasantly surprised by how decent those vinyl planks look.

Then, the wallpaper went up. I have to tell you, this was the Game Changer. I had a general design idea in mind, so when a great Schumacher grasscloth popped up on

The Designer's Attic

, I jumped. NB: If by chance you're considering hanging your own wallpaper, grasscloth is not Beginner's level. Our paper hangers are great, and they mentioned how tough this paper was to deal with. On the other hand, I think it probably added a layer of structure stability to the room. The stuff is serious.

I love the durable, "wheatey" texture, and it immediately dictated the need to pair it with a glossy, deep blue on the cabinet.

Speaking of...I bought a basic stock wood cabinet and closet pole, painted the cabinet, and added some vintage brass hardware.

Can I just take a moment to say what a HUGE moment this was? Clothes. No longer. Batting head.

OK. Carrying on.

I can't even tell you how happy I am with the reconfiguration. The tiny room feels so much more spacious, and appropriate for the task at hand (i.e. the endless pile of clothes.)