Small Laundry Design Ideas NZ

Joyce Jul 01, 2026

Transforming small spaces into functional and stylish laundry areas can be a challenge, but with the right design ideas, you can create a practical and inviting space. In New Zealand, where space might be limited, especially in apartments and townhouses, clever design solutions are key. Let's explore some innovative small laundry design ideas tailored for Kiwi homes.

5 Small Laundry Ideas That Work in NZ Homes
5 Small Laundry Ideas That Work in NZ Homes

First, consider the layout and flow of your laundry space. A well-planned layout can maximise your space and make daily tasks more efficient. By understanding your needs and the available space, you can create a laundry area that works for you.

a washer and dryer in a white laundry room with open shelve
a washer and dryer in a white laundry room with open shelve

Maximising Space with Smart Storage Solutions

In small laundries, storage is paramount. Opting for vertical storage solutions can help you make the most of your wall space. Installing wall-mounted cabinets, shelves, or pegboards allows you to keep cleaning supplies, laundry baskets, and ironing boards off the floor and within easy reach.

30 Laundry Room Cabinets and Shelves Ideas No One Shares Because Most Builds Don't Go This Far
30 Laundry Room Cabinets and Shelves Ideas No One Shares Because Most Builds Don't Go This Far

Consider using multifunctional furniture, such as a laundry hamper with built-in shelves or a foldable ironing board that can be mounted on the wall when not in use. These space-saving solutions can help you keep your laundry area clutter-free and organised.

Wall-Mounted Cabinets and Shelves

Cozy Tiny Laundry: 2 Washers, 1 Dryer Space
Cozy Tiny Laundry: 2 Washers, 1 Dryer Space

Wall-mounted cabinets and shelves are a great way to utilise vertical space. They provide ample storage for detergents, fabric softeners, and other laundry essentials. Choose cabinets with doors to hide away unsightly products, or open shelves for easy access and a more industrial look.

For a cohesive design, consider matching your wall-mounted storage with your kitchen cabinets or using the same colour scheme. This can create a sense of continuity throughout your home and make your laundry area feel like a natural extension of your living space.

Pegboards and Slat Walls

Utility z izhodom
Utility z izhodom

Pegboards and slat walls offer flexible and adjustable storage solutions. They allow you to hang laundry tools, such as clothes horses, ironing boards, and brooms, keeping them within reach and off the floor. You can also use baskets and bins to organise smaller items and prevent them from cluttering your space.

To add a personal touch, paint your pegboard or slat wall in a bold colour or use it as a backdrop for displaying artwork or family photos. This can transform your laundry area into a vibrant and inviting space.

Creating a Multi-Purpose Laundry Area

a washer and dryer in a small room with wooden cabinets on the wall
a washer and dryer in a small room with wooden cabinets on the wall

In small homes, it's essential to make the most of every square metre. By incorporating a multi-purpose laundry area, you can combine functionality and style. Consider incorporating a small workspace, a seating area, or even a drying rack that doubles as a room divider.

By thinking outside the box and repurposing furniture, you can create a laundry area that caters to your unique needs and maximises your space.

Laundry Room
Laundry Room
a washer and dryer in a small room
a washer and dryer in a small room
Coastal Barn Laundry - Beach Style - Laundry Room - Perth - by Lux Interiors | Houzz NZ
Coastal Barn Laundry - Beach Style - Laundry Room - Perth - by Lux Interiors | Houzz NZ
Is Your Laundry Room Too Small? These 20 Ideas Make It Work Better
Is Your Laundry Room Too Small? These 20 Ideas Make It Work Better
a washer and dryer in a small room with wooden cabinets on the wall
a washer and dryer in a small room with wooden cabinets on the wall
a washer sitting inside of a white closet next to a wooden floor in a room
a washer sitting inside of a white closet next to a wooden floor in a room
a white washer and dryer sitting in a laundry room next to each other
a white washer and dryer sitting in a laundry room next to each other
a washer and dryer in a small room next to a sliding glass door
a washer and dryer in a small room next to a sliding glass door
Laundry room ideas small space 2026 stacked storage with sink ikea style apartment diy farmhouse
Laundry room ideas small space 2026 stacked storage with sink ikea style apartment diy farmhouse
Modern Laundry Room Design Ideas | Stylish Small Space Organization
Modern Laundry Room Design Ideas | Stylish Small Space Organization
a washer and dryer in a small room with white walls, wooden flooring and open shelving
a washer and dryer in a small room with white walls, wooden flooring and open shelving
a washer and dryer in a small room with built - in shelving
a washer and dryer in a small room with built - in shelving
Modern Laundry Room with Built-In Washer & Dryer, Wooden Shelves & Minimal Design
Modern Laundry Room with Built-In Washer & Dryer, Wooden Shelves & Minimal Design
19 Small Narrow Laundry Room Ideas for Tiny Laundry Room Storage
19 Small Narrow Laundry Room Ideas for Tiny Laundry Room Storage
a washer and dryer in a small room with white cabinets on the walls
a washer and dryer in a small room with white cabinets on the walls
Modern Laundry Room Design | Cozy Minimalist Laundry Space Inspiration
Modern Laundry Room Design | Cozy Minimalist Laundry Space Inspiration
a washer and dryer in a small kitchen
a washer and dryer in a small kitchen
a washer and dryer in a small room with white tile flooring on the walls
a washer and dryer in a small room with white tile flooring on the walls
Small Narrow Laundry Room Ideas for Tight Spaces
Small Narrow Laundry Room Ideas for Tight Spaces
a washer and dryer in a small room
a washer and dryer in a small room

Combining Laundry and Workspace

If you work from home or need a dedicated space for crafts or homework, consider incorporating a small workspace into your laundry area. A compact desk or a wall-mounted shelf with a built-in desktop can provide a functional workspace without taking up too much space.

Choose a desk with built-in storage to keep office supplies and paperwork organised. You can also use a room divider or a bookshelf to separate your workspace from the rest of the laundry area, creating a sense of separation between the two spaces.

Incorporating Seating and Drying Racks

In small laundries, every inch of space counts. Incorporating a foldable chair or a wall-mounted seat can provide a convenient place to sit while sorting laundry or waiting for the dryer to finish. Choose a chair with a slim profile to minimise its visual impact on the space.

Drying racks can also double as seating or room dividers. Opt for a foldable or wall-mounted drying rack that can be easily stored when not in use. This can help you maximise your space and create a multi-functional laundry area that caters to your needs.

When designing your small laundry, remember that form follows function. By prioritising your needs and choosing storage solutions that maximise your space, you can create a practical and stylish laundry area that works for you. Embrace the unique challenges of small spaces and let your creativity shine through in your design choices. Happy designing!