Home & Design

Armstrong worked with contractor Denny + Gardner to create a chic Oakton laundry room. A penny round-tile backsplash, patterned porcelain-tile flooring and a Blanco apron-front sink add pizzazz. Photo: Christy Kosnic

Wash Cycle

Advice from architect Sarah Armstrong, AIA, of Studio 360 on merging style and function in the laundry room
  • Think about how you want to use the space. Consider the basic flow of activity—from storing and washing dirty laundry to drying, folding and hanging.
  • Stick with durable, easy-to-clean finishes and install good lighting.
  • Be sure to consider the room’s size and your own height when choosing your washer and dryer; a petite person may find a top-loader difficult to reach inside.
  • Where possible, include extras such as a sink with a drying rod over it; pull-down racks or drying cabinets; surfaces for folding; storage; and an ironing board.
  • Add a bit of fun. Even a laundry room should have personality!

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