10 Small Laundry Room Makeover Ideas That Maximize Space

If you’ve ever looked at your cramped laundry space and thought, “There’s just no way to make this work,” you’re not alone. But I’m here to tell you: a small laundry room doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice function or style. With the right layout, smart storage, and a few design tricks, even the tiniest corner can be transformed into a space that feels fresh, functional, and dare I say—pretty!

Before we jump into these gorgeous makeover ideas, let’s clear up a few things that people often wonder when it comes to small laundry rooms:

How small can a laundry room be?

Surprisingly small! Some laundry areas are just 3 to 6 feet wide—enough to tuck in a washer and dryer side-by-side or stack them vertically. The key isn’t the size, but how you use it.

What should a small laundry room have?

At a minimum, you want your space to hold:
✔ A washer and dryer
✔ Shelving or cabinetry for supplies
✔ A place to sort or fold clothes
✔ Optional: Hanging space, decorative touches, or hidden storage

What is a small laundry called?

You might hear it called a laundry closet, laundry nook, or even a laundry cupboard—depending on how it’s integrated into the home. Outside of just “laundry room,” you might also see it referred to as a utility room, mudroom (if it’s multipurpose), or washroom in more traditional homes.

Now that we’ve cleared that up—let’s take a look at:

10 small laundry room ideas that absolutely nailed their makeover

Trust me, you’ll want to copy at least one of these!

1. Classic Neutral with Stone Accent Wall Small Laundry Room

This compact setup proves that neutral doesn’t have to be boring. The textured stone backsplash instantly elevates the space, making it feel like a high-end nook rather than a basic utility area. The cabinetry above and drawers beside the machines provide closed storage, and the shelf nook on top offers a decorative touch without clutter.

Design Tip: Add a built-in shelf with lighting above your machines to highlight a pretty feature wall like this.

To Recreate This Look:

• Look for faux stone peel-and-stick panels
• Use cabinet lighting or a puck light for that glow
• Keep your palette warm with cream cabinetry and natural wood floors

2. Elegant and Compact Small Laundry Room with Gold Touches

This laundry area may be tiny, but it oozes charm. A narrow shelf above the machines is styled with art, books, and even a little dog portrait! Brass hardware on the cabinets adds warmth and a luxe touch.

Design Tip: Narrow floating shelves are perfect for small spaces and give you room to style without taking up depth.

To Recreate This Look:

• Use decorative trim or contact paper to make a basic shelf look elevated
• Incorporate framed art and gold or brass elements for a polished finish
• Go vertical with storage, keeping counters clear

3. Warm Woods & Basket Storage

This one’s all about warmth and practicality. The wooden countertop and open shelves create a cozy, rustic vibe while baskets make the perfect sorting and storage solution. Plus, there’s a hidden laundry basket station below!

Design Tip: Adding a butcher block countertop gives your machines a more “furniture-like” presence and adds function for folding.

To Recreate This Look:

• Use IKEA butcher block for an affordable counter
• Add wall-mounted shelves and label your baskets
• Mix natural textures like wood, rattan, and greenery

4. Built-In Sorting Station

I love how this space uses every inch smartly. A deep wood counter stretches across the machines with open cubbies below, each holding a laundry basket. Upper shelving offers closed and open storage, and the wall-mounted light adds task lighting in style.

Design Tip: Incorporate a built-in folding area and keep baskets sorted by family member or laundry type.

To Recreate This Look:

• Choose a wide, sturdy countertop
• Add floating cube shelves for flexibility
• Use matching baskets to keep the look clean and cohesive

5. Modern Farmhouse Charm

Here’s a laundry room that feels like it came straight out of a design magazine. With shaker cabinets, a black tile floor, and a woven basket for texture, this space balances traditional and modern perfectly.

Design Tip: A statement light fixture can transform a utilitarian space into one that feels like part of your home’s design story.

To Recreate This Look:

• Use patterned floor tiles or black hex tile
• Install sleek white cabinetry
• Add in one oversized woven basket for texture and warmth

6. Floral Wallpaper & Wood Accents

How cute is this one? The floral wallpaper gives the laundry nook instant personality, and those warm wood shelves feel clean and functional. It’s simple but so stylish.

Design Tip: Wallpaper in a bold pattern makes a small space feel curated, not forgotten.

To Recreate This Look:

• Choose a peel-and-stick wallpaper in a botanical or graphic print
• Use slim shelves in a medium-tone wood
• Add a framed quote or minimalist art for character

7. Slim & Minimalist Utility Space

This layout proves you don’t need width to make it work. With machines tucked between wall panels and tall cabinets, the narrow room still feels airy thanks to light walls and a bit of decor above.

Design Tip: Hang small artwork or dried florals to soften the utilitarian vibe.

To Recreate This Look:

• Use vertical shiplap or wainscoting to add character
• Install overhead cabinetry to maximize space
• Add a decorative wall hook for small items like mesh laundry bags

8. Natural Boho Laundry Nook

This one might be my favorite—it’s giving cozy cabin meets spa day! The open wooden shelves, dried florals, and hanging hooks make it feel lived-in and beautiful.

Design Tip: Layer neutral textures like rattan, wood, and linen for a warm, inviting feel.

To Recreate This Look:

• Install chunky wooden shelves above and beside machines
• Use dried flowers or eucalyptus for decor
• Keep baskets uniform in tone for that organic look

9. Sleek Gray with Under-Shelf Lighting

This laundry room looks custom-built! The under-cabinet lighting adds a warm glow, while the open hanging rod is practical and polished. The soft gray palette is calming and super chic.

Design Tip: Add a rod beneath your cabinets for drip-drying or steaming clothes.

To Recreate This Look:

• Use LED strip lights under shelves
• Add a subway tile or brick-look backsplash
• Install a rod or towel bar for hanging items

10. Bold and Botanical

Proof that a laundry closet can still have personality! The deep green floral wallpaper steals the show, and the simple cabinetry keeps it clean. I love the open hanging shelf for quick storage and styling.

Design Tip: Don’t be afraid to go bold with wallpaper or color in small spaces—it actually adds depth.

To Recreate This Look:

• Choose a vibrant peel-and-stick wallpaper
• Keep cabinetry simple and clean to balance the wall
• Use decorative jars and a framed print for added charm

Final Thoughts

Just because your laundry room is small doesn’t mean it can’t be stunning and super efficient. From narrow closets to cozy nooks, it’s all about maximizing your space and layering in smart storage and beautiful touches. Whether you go neutral and cozy or bold and botanical, there’s a makeover idea here that will help your laundry area work harder—and look better—than ever.