A laundry room needs to function and perform, so the utility aspect is really important: good counter space for folding, a drying rack or drying bar, and a big, deep sink for rinsing things like soccer cleats and garden tools. You’ll also want to build in lots of storage for cleaning supplies and overflow kitchen pantry items.

In a smaller space, you can add to the functionality by consolidating and creating efficiencies. You can install a pull-down rack instead of a drying pole or a pull-down counter that covers the sink when you’re not using it.

Big items like a new washer and dryer are obvious choices for a refresh, but small fixes can have an outsize impact. Think about a new shade of paint for the walls or cabinets, a patterned tile design as a backsplash, or a colorful rug. Consider using something you wanted to use in the rest of the house but couldn't. One of our clients found a mint-colored pendant that she loved, but it didn't fit in anywhere else, so she hung it in the laundry room.

The key is to add things you'll be happy to see every day, like pretty storage or live plants or a piece of artwork—something that makes you smile every time you walk in. I always tell my clients, "You have to go in there and you have to do laundry, so you might as well make it an enjoyable space. Have fun with it."

Dwell’s Picks: Good Design Never Fades

A tile backsplash, a plant or two—a few simple things can elevate a hardworking back-of-house space.

Ixeo Iron + Steamer from Rowenta

Trenton 2-Piece Laundry Set from Pottery Barn

Bamboo Floor Mat from Chilewich

Fiberstone Pot by Sprout Home

Blu Ponti Tiles from Ceramica Francesco de Maio

ThinQ Washer by LG

Front Load Washer with Steam by Samsung

Classic W1 by Miele

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Give Your Home a Quick Refresh With This Room-by-Room Guide