A convenient solution for storage in a kitchen and laundry area is to design a small room that combines the function of a pantry and laundry room. There are several steps to take in designing such a room. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Make a list of requirements. Decide what functions you need this room to perform. Identify the amount of space needed for laundry items and food items. Decide whether you will install a sink in this room.
2. Determine locations for the plumbing and dryer vent. A dryer vent functions best when it is as short as possible, so locate the dryer against and outside wall if possible. Consider the location of other nearby plumbing, such as for a bathroom or the kitchen, when choosing the location of the washer. If you've decided to install a sink, locate plumbing for this as well.
3. Choose cabinet and shelving features for the rest of the room. With a combined function such as this, identify which part of the room will be used for laundry and where the food will be stored. Thought should be given to color scheme, which should flow from the color schemes of adjacent areas of the home.
4. Plan out electrical needs. Specialized electrical outlets for the washer and dryer should be located on the wall behind these machines. Choose the location of additional outlets and light fixtures. You may want to consult an electrician as you plan this phase of the design. The style of light fixtures should be decided on at this time, as well.
5. Finalize cabinet choices, including style of doors and hardware. Choose materials for counter tops and flooring, and finalize a color scheme. Pick a sink and faucet, if this is part of the plan. Select molding for any doorways or windows, and include the color for these in the color scheme. Settle on any special features for laundry, such as a built-in ironing board or clothes drying rack, or for food storage, such as a wine rack, bins for potatoes or onions, and other features such as recycling bins or coat hooks.
Tags: color scheme, dryer vent, install sink, light fixtures, this room
