In many houses, laundry rooms are little more than semi-neglected utilitarian spaces best left unseen – not an impression you want to make if you're selling your home. If your laundry space needs some care, follow these organization and decorating tips to upgrade or cleverly conceal it.
Closet Up
Laundry rooms are tucked into many different places in a home, including the garage, basement, utility room, the kitchen and, in some urban homes, even the bathroom.
That's where cabinets can come into play. A cabinetmaker can build an enclosure for the washer and dryer alone or for your entire laundry setup. You can also purchase cabinetry at a home improvement store and install it yourself.
When possible, conceal your laundry space with doors that match or complement other doors in your home. Avoid the conspicuous "accordion" door often found on laundry closets in older homes. Alternatives include a sliding-door track system or even curtain panels. Curtains are a cheaper, softer and less permanent way to separate and hide your laundry.
Become Shelf Conscious
If your main concern is to conceal a bulky, full-size washer and dryer, a countertop installed directly above the appliances discreetly says, nothing to see here, folks! Use the countertop space as a display shelf during showings. Install a rod and curtain underneath to hide the machines from view.
Color Cleverly
Coordination is key when it comes to camouflaging a laundry room. Choose soothing, neutral palettes for curtains, wood and paint in your laundry space.
If the laundry room lacks cabinetry or shelving, use baskets and storage cubes in a coordinating color scheme to conceal detergent, hangers and clothes.
Show Discipline in Decor
Put laundry room knickknacks away. The last thing you need when sprucing up your laundry space is a cutesy sign that reads "Loads of fun" or "Drop pants here." Choose laundry area decor that is not personal or specific to cleaning. Homebuyers gravitate toward places they can easily picture living in – not picture you living in.
There are many easy ways to minimize your home's flaws and highlight its best features. If you're thinking about selling your home, contact ME for guidance on everything from quick upgrades to pricing, contract negotiations and support throughout the selling process.