How to: Incorporate a utility room in your bathroom, cloakroom or boot room
In today’s homes, with their need for multi-functionality, maximising space is paramount. One way to achieve this is by incorporating a utility room within an existing space like your bathroom, cloakroom, or boot room. This not only saves space but also adds convenience and potentially value to your home. Here, Senior Designer Jo from Ripples London shares her tips for seamlessly incorporating a utility area into these rooms while maintaining style and functionality.
A utility room is generally a space designated for housing laundry appliances, drying laundry and storing cleaning supplies. Today, more and more clients are opting to incorporate utility areas within their bathrooms, to make the most of the space and to avoid the need to keep carrying laundry up and sown the stairs!
Integrating a utility area into a bathroom, cloakroom, or boot room requires careful planning to ensure it complements the existing space and works cohesively for its various purposes.
Key considerations
Space and layout
Cloakrooms: With space at more of a premium, could you consider installing a combination of open and closed storage? A small washer-dryer combo can fit beneath a countertop and laundry items such as washing tablets could be neatly displayed in jars or baskets on an open shelf
Boot rooms: This area often has more space for cabinetry. Consider installing some custom-built units to house appliances, an airer and your ironing board, whilst also providing ample storage for footwear and outdoor gear. Hooks on the walls provide space for coats and a small bench with storage beneath offers a place to sit and put on shoes
Bathrooms: As bathrooms should be more generous in size, you can often utilise under-counter spaces or vertical shelving. Stackable washer and dryer units can fit neatly into tall cabinets and are great space-savers. Imagine a sleek, modern bathroom where one side features a built-in cabinet that houses a washer and dryer. The cabinet doors blend seamlessly with the bathroom decor, hiding the appliances when not in use
Plumbing and electrical requirements
Ensure that the chosen space has or can be fitted with the necessary plumbing and electrical connections needed for your washer/dryer. This is often easier in a bathroom, where plumbing is already available, but may require more work in a cloakroom or boot room.
Ventilation
Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent moisture buildup and ensure the longevity of your appliances and that your clothes remain smelling fresh. Installing an extractor fan, buying a portable dehumidifier and ensuring adequate airflow through windows or vents are all essential to explore.
Noise reduction
To minimise disruption, especially in a relaxing bathroom environment, consider soundproofing the area around your appliances. This can be done with insulated doors or by choosing quieter models of washers and dryers.
Design tips
Creating a cohesive look
Cloakroom: Utilise stylish cabinetry that can hide appliances out of sight from guests when not in use. Opt for materials that are durable and easy to clean and maintain.
Boot room: Here, functionality and durability are key. Use robust materials that can handle the wear and tear of outdoor gear and consider incorporating a deep, Belfast style basin for washing muddy hands. You might even consider incorporating a dedicated dog shower to keep your furry friend from bringing mud into the rest of the home.
Bathroom: I would recommend matching the utility cabinetry with your existing bathroom cabinets. Use finishes and colours that complement the bathroom's decor to create a cohesive look.
Efficient storage
Use multi-functional storage solutions. In a bathroom, this might include shelves or drawers for toiletries alongside cleaning supplies. In a cloakroom or boot room, incorporate plenty of handy hooks, cubbies and benches with hidden storage beneath.
Lighting
Adequate lighting is essential, especially in utility spaces, as you’ll need dedicated task lighting to help you when you’re handling laundry. Consider installing LED lights under shelves or within cabinets to add an extra layer of interest to the space.
For more bathroom advice from our team of specialist bathroom designers, download or request a copy of our free Style Guide.
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