Many homes in the UK have a utility room but it is often the very last room in the house which you will think about updating. It can definitely become no more than muddy boots and laundry with the added delight in some cases of wet dog!!! However, it can be a very pleasant space with some TLC. When you are ready to face renovating your utility room, there are some key things you should consider.
The Utility Room Floor
One of the most important decisions you are going to make is the type of flooring you want. The most sensible choice you could make is for something which is waterproof, easy to clean and durable. A covering such as vinyl or laminate is probably going to be the best option here as they are low maintenance but won’t be easily become worn.
Make sure you have a small area next to the back door which has a heavy-duty mat. This is not only for the wiping of feet but reduces excessive wear on a much-crossed area. Having a shoe rack and coat hooks would be a very useful addition if there is the space. The utility room should be a clear “undressing” area where people take off all their outdoor gear and can put it somewhere to dry out. The convenience of such a space is hopefully it prevents wetness and dirt that someone might bring in with them from getting tracked through your home.
Check the Plumbing of your Utility Room
As mentioned above, quite sensibly, many people use their utility room as a laundry room too. If the room has a washing machine then it will most likely have a sink, a huge benefit as ‘mucky’ jobs can be done here rather than in the kitchen sink where food is prepared. You need to make sure that both are plumbed in properly so they cannot leak.
If you want to try to install the washing machine yourself then most likely you will find helpful videos online.
Utility Room Storage
In addition to being a laundry room, a utility room is also frequently used for storage. From bulky winter boots to all your cleaning supplies, to overspill storage from the kitchen. You need to make sure that you have space for it all.
It is quite easy to find pretty inexpensive modular cupboards which will provide you with adequate storage. Make a detailed plan to make sure you feel you are maximising the space you have available for the things you wish to store. For example, it you wish to store an ironing board you will need a cupboard tall enough.
Design Continuation from the Kitchen
If you do not feel like doing a complete rethink of the design in the utility then why not carry over your design choices from the kitchen? Your cupboards and countertops will most likely work in the utility room just as well as they do in the kitchen and it will help to create a little flow between the two rooms.
A quick change like painting the walls the same colour could make a big difference to the space. If you have leftover paint from the kitchen then why not use it here. With just some small changes, you can easily transform your utility room.
