Small laundry room inspiration

When did it finally sink in that I was a homeowner?  It wasn't when I was carrying boxes in to our living room or kitchen, it was when I walked past our laundry room for the first time.  I know it sounds silly, but I have never had my own laundry room - I either had to go to a laundromat or down the hall to the residents' laundry room. However, since this space isn't usually seen by guests it tends to be put on the back burner for any updates. I like to remember how grateful I am to finally have my own laundry room by keeping it functional and organized.  Below are some dream laundry rooms for inspiration

Even if you only have a laundry nook, make it feel more luxe with an updated lighting fixture, and sleek shelving with organized supplies.
via BHG

Love this Stain kit idea!
via BHG

You can still make a small laundry space work for you and be pretty too. Making the most of the room you do have may take a little creativity and narrowing down your items to just necessities, but making it functional will really help you enjoy this space.

via fourgenerations

Don't forget about the accessories! Have fun with them and mix them up since there are a lot of different small items that get put in the laundry room. Baskets and clear jars keep smaller items from creating visual clutter.

via flicker

Giving your laundry room a makeover doesn't need to be pricey. A few cabinets and a table top to fold your clothes can really make a difference in the room. Also adding a touch of color with some paint can make it feel more like a homey space than a commercial laundry.

via houzz

If you laundry room has plenty of space you might consider a wash tub or sink, and some hang up space for those items that need to hang dry.  I think laundry room slop sinks are a must.  We don't have one yet, but it's on my registry! A rug can also add a little comfort to this space to keep it from being to stiff and cold. 

Check out this amazing basement/den makeover

I think we can all agree that the photo below is a pretty common, albeit horrible den. Well, Southern Living featured the makeover of this den into a living room/craft area over the holidays. I think it turned out great, and is a great example of efficiently using the space you have.

The before....
The after! (Click on the image for a larger view.) Notice the narrow bookshelves on either side of the fireplace which offer storage that didn't even exist before - a perfect example of making the most of your space. A couch instead of chairs offers more seating and cozies up the room. Large baskets under the console at the back of the chair create storage, and the table acts as a desk when needed. Shelves on the wall create a pretty gallery space.

A pretty wreath hung from the bookshelves.

A corkboard displays invites and cards.


What do you think of this makeover?

via Southern Living

A familiar home decorating favorite gets an AMAZING makeover

Um...did I miss this or is this a new look for West Elm for the New Year? The styling in the Jan. 2011 No. 1 issue is so fresh and different. love?....YES. I really like the indie style, mid-century modern nod, rustic and eclectic touch they've introduced. So up my alley. What do you think?

Click on a photo for a larger version (it's worth it to see these details)

I adore every chair in this room!





Isn't this the cutest cork and ceramic coffee set?


yummy






Do you like their new look?

See more at West Elm.