Boot room ideas often have a distinctly country, heritage feel to them. Typically found situated by the back door in farmhouses, they serve as a barrier between the indoors and outdoors - a place to store mucky boots, raincoats and gardening clothes, so it's safe to say that practicality comes first.

However, in recent years boot rooms have become something of a bragging right. A chance to indulge in wishlist built-in storage solutions, wall panelling and, of course, an enviable colour scheme. According to colour trends, dark green is one of the best choices you could make for a boot room, and Lick's latest collaboration with Hunter is the ultimate glossy finish that will make a statement in a function-first space.

Dark green is the ultimate colour choice for a boot rom for a multitude of reasons, but most of all because it taps into a heritage look while also adding a trend-first touch. Here's why you should give it a go.

'I think one of the reasons these rich heritage greens are coming back so strongly is because we are all craving homes that make us feel more grounded, calmer and more connected to nature,' explains Tash Bradley, director of interior design at Lick.

Every year, there are new shades of green that become a major kitchen trend. In 2026, trends have veered towards earthy hues and moss green has been used in kitchens and utilities to create an organic, nature-inspired look.

Emerald green hues were big in kitchens a few years back, and while this isn't a trend I see coming back this year, featuring this shade in a boot room is an entirely different ball game.

'I think we are seeing a huge shift towards biophilic design, where people are wanting to blur the lines between indoors and outdoors even more,' Tash explains.

'In a world where everything feels like it is moving at such a fast pace with technology and AI, these deeper greens have this incredible ability to emotionally transport us back to nature. Green has long been associated with balance, restoration and calmness, and studies have shown that nature-inspired tones can help lower cortisol levels,' she adds.

In a room that is so connected closely to the outdoors, it's only natural that a colour scheme should take inspiration from what's just beyond the back door.

There are, of course, some practical reasons for painting a boot room such a rich shade of green. Scuffs, mud and general dirt are all to be expected in a boot room, and opting for a darker colour scheme means repainting won't come around quite as quickly.

'Equally elegant and forgiving, darker tones help conceal everyday wear and muddy marks, making the room feel considered yet entirely liveable – a balance that never goes out of style,' echoes Tom Howley, creative design director at the eponymously named kitchen brand.

When using this rich colour palette in a boot room, more is more. 'Colour drenching the walls, woodwork and cabinetry in a deep green instantly transforms them from purely practical rooms into spaces that feel considered, cocooning and full of personality,' Tash adds.

Finish matters too, and Lick's latest collaboration with Hunter to create Green 170 is formulated in an eggshell finish, which helps to bounce light around the room - essential when using a dark colour in a small space.

A boot room puts practicality at the core of the room's function, but it's important that it also feels like a stylish place to store outerwear, and that it feels like an extension of your kitchen area rather than a cluttered room that needs to be hidden away.

Whether you want to paint your boot room or you just want to add some deep green accessories to the space to give it the zhuzh it deserves, these pieces will help you to incorporate the trend for less.

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Whether you're painting an entire room or just looking to update accessories, such as painted storage hooks or a bench, you won't go wrong with a rich green scheme.

I’ll admit it, the built-in dog bath trend sucked me right in. Insta-perfect utility rooms with gorgeous decor, dogs being hosed down calmly at a sensible height for back comfort, mud neatly contained – what’s not to love? After years of washing our dogs in the family bath upstairs – a process that was messy, back-breaking and gave me the ick – I was ready for an upgrade.

So, when we renovated our bootility room, just off the entrance hall, I decided to go all in. Inspired by this dog sink I’d spotted online, I opted for a beautiful Belfast sink by Shaws set on bricks at a low level, paired with a classic Perrin & Rowe mixer tap with separate pull-out spray.

The idea was to rinse muddy paws and wash the dogs in warm water, towel them off, then pop them straight into their nearby crates. It felt like the kind of grown-up practical solution you see in the best utility room ideas, where function is designed into the room from the start. Living in deepest Devon, surrounded by muddy fields and forestry, it made a lot of sense in my head.

And… it kinda works. I still love the idea of a built-in dog bath, and I’m sure the dogs are grateful to avoid being wrestled upstairs (or hosed outside). But living with one has taught me there are some important things to think through before committing, especially if you have more than one dog, and one of them is on the chunkier side. So, if you’re wondering, is a built-in dog bath worth it? Here’s my honest, tried-and-tested take.

Why I went for a built-in dog bath in the first place

The appeal is obvious. A built-in dog bath feels like one of those clever features that make everyday life smoother. It promises to contain mess, protect the rest of the house, and turn a loathsome but necessary chore into something far more manageable.

For me, the motivation was largely emotional. I absolutely hated washing dogs in the family bath. The slipping, the hair, the lingering smell, the sense that no amount of bleach quite erased the experience. A dedicated washing zone felt cleaner, calmer and more respectful of the rest of the house.

I also liked how the look could be integrated into the room. A Belfast sink on brick piers feels more like furniture than pet equipment, and the pull-out spray tap would be useful for washing the area down afterwards.

'Dog showers work best when they’re considered as part of the wider design of a utility or boot room, rather than as a standalone feature,' says Lewis Buckley, Kitchen Designer at Harvey Jones. 'Always try to look at how the room needs to function day to day, from muddy walks and wet coats to storage, circulation and materials that age beautifully over time.'

The lower height sink would be easier on my back, compared to leaning over our bath, and also be a handy height for filling the mop bucket, I reasoned. On paper, it ticked every box.

The reality

Here’s the key thing I underestimated: scale. Our smaller dog, Ned, fits comfortably in the sink. He could hop in and out with minimal assistance (until arthritis kicked in but he was still easy enough to lift in and out), and there was enough room to rinse him properly without water going absolutely everywhere. For him, the setup worked exactly as intended.

Then came along my beloved spaniel (and favourite child) Milo, and my smug satisfaction began to waver. He’s much more solid, heavier and not especially keen on being lifted. Getting him into the sink is awkward and messy. Getting him out is worse. There’s also simply not enough room to manoeuvre him properly once he’s in there, which makes rinsing more stressful than it needs to be. And you can forget trying to towel him off while he’s contained, too, there’s just not enough space to lift his legs up and get the job done.

‘The biggest mistake homeowners make with built-in dog baths is underestimating both the size of the dog and the clearances needed around them,’ says Peter Humphrey, design director, Humphrey Munson. ‘You need space not just for the animal, but for the person washing them to move safely, control the spray and avoid lifting at awkward angles. Once dogs get over a certain weight, raised sinks become impractical very quickly.’

It made me realise that asking whether a built-in dog bath is any good depends entirely on who it’s for. Breed, weight and temperament matter far more than aesthetics, sadly.

The mess factor

I went into this assuming the sink would contain most of the water. That was optimistic, and in hindsight, I should have opted for a wider sink. I went for the maximum width I could fit between the washing machine and dryer – 80cm – but a 100cm model would have definitely been better.

In practice, washing a larger dog creates a splash zone far beyond the sink itself. Water hits surrounding window sills and worktops, the cabinetry and, most significantly, the floor. And because my sink is raised, a quick shake of the dog and the spray goes far and wide.

‘Any dog-washing setup that sits above floor level needs very careful detailing,’ explains Peter. ‘Without waist-height upstands or a fully waterproofed splash zone, water will always escape. We often recommend ground-level dog showers with proper falls to a drain, so that gravity does most of the hard work and keeps moisture where it belongs.’

Our boot room floor gets soaked during a proper wash, and unless I’m on top of drying things down immediately, dampness lingers longer than I’d like.

Location matters more than you think

The boot room sits just off our entrance hall, which felt logical at the time. Muddy dogs come in, get washed, job done. But because the dog bath isn’t enclosed, smells spread quickly.

On wet winter days, when our dogs are being washed daily, the house can smell unmistakably doggy when you walk in. Not unpleasant exactly, but noticeable. And not quite the classy first impression I’d hoped for.

Ventilation plays a much bigger role here than I’d appreciated. ‘When you introduce frequent water use into a utility or boot room, you’re effectively creating a wet zone,’ says Peter. ‘Without mechanical extraction or a way to fully dry the space, moisture and odours will travel into adjoining rooms. We always advise treating dog-washing areas more like a shower room than a sink. Underfloor heating and extractor fans can make a big difference.’

What it cost to install

Cost-wise, my setup was more of a DIY-friendly upgrade than a fully bespoke solution. The wide Belfast sink and brick base weren’t wildly expensive compared to custom dog wash units, and because we were already renovating, and did all the installation ourselves, including the tiling, we saved on labour.

Admittedly, the pull-out spray mixer tap wasn’t the cheapest, but I wanted to invest in a brand I already trusted to avoid malfunctions. The Mandarin Stone tiles we used were left over from our family bathroom reno, so that helped. Including the Brazilian slate worktops and fittings, I think we spent around £2,250.

However, if you go for a specialist dog bath, rather than a sink set-up like mine, you’ll need to factor a few more costs and allocate extra space. ‘People often budget for the visible elements – like stylish shower controls and pretty tiles – but forget about waterproofing, floor finishes, plumbing, heating and ventilation costs,’ says Peter.

‘A purpose-built dog shower might cost more upfront, but it usually includes proper tanking, non-slip surfaces and drainage falls, which can save money on repairs and retrofits later.’

The future-proofing mistake I didn’t anticipate

One thing I didn’t consider at all was how dogs change over time. When the dog bath was installed, we had a small border terrier and petite sprocker spaniel, both of whom are no longer with us (due to old age, not dog bath related injuries).

Milo is also a sprocker, but much heavier-set, and we also have a new pup, Dotty but the jury is still out on how big she’ll get. Milo does fit in the sink, there’s just not enough clearance around him and you just can’t really get to all his dirty bits, especially when he’s wiggling around and shaking mid-wash.

What felt like a sensible, future-ready setup a few years ago now feels limiting. ‘We often see dog-washing areas designed for puppies that simply don’t scale up,’ says Peter. ‘Futureproofing means designing for the largest, heaviest version of your dog, not necessarily the one you currently have. Ground-level solutions are far more adaptable as dogs age, slow down or develop joint issues.’

Dogs can also move around a lot when being washed and you’ll want to get to every orifice so it’s wise to go for a showering area that’s at least twice the width of your dog.

Would I do it again?

I would go for another dog bath, but not a sink-style one. If I were starting from scratch, I’d go for a lower-level dog bath like the one above, with a better contained splash zone. This enclosure-style shower with easy access will help keep the water contained, and you dry, but your dog won’t have to jump (or be lifted) in and out.

Ideally, I would also make space for an adjacent towelling-off area so I could get the majority of the water off and then pop on their drying coats before they step foot on the utility room floor.

So, is a built-in dog bath worth adding to your utility room ideas? Yes, but only if it’s designed around the dogs you own (or may own in future), not just how good it looks on Instagram. A sink set-up like mine would have been perfect, if I only had handbag-size hounds.

Complete the set up

Utility rooms are a wishlist home feature all year round, but it's at this time of year in particular that has us dreaming hard about a separate laundry room of our own.

September always has that back-to-school feel; if you have children, it's when a utility comes into its own when dealing with the barrage of laundry, and if not, it's equally as important as a place to store clothes that suddenly take multiple days to dry.

Wherever your desire for a utility room lies, what happens if you simply don't have room for any utility room ideas? There's a new trend for tiny utilities on the block - an innovative way to build in space for a dedicated laundry spot without needing the square footage for a separate room. And this is how you can achieve it.

How to create a tiny utility

You might be wondering how a tiny utility differs from a small utility room. Well, while most utility rooms happen to be on the smaller side, particularly when you've taken space out of a kitchen in order to fit it into your floorplan, a tiny utility is no more than the width of a couple of cabinets.

A tiny utility is when an innovative space for a washing machine and dedicated work surface has been carved out of an existing kitchen without needing to undergo building work to create a separate space. This might be an otherwise poorly used metre of kitchen cabinetry or an under the stairs space that isn't being put to good use.

'Not every home has the space for a fully separate utility room, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on practicality. By incorporating a utility-style zone within the main kitchen footprint or into an adjoining walkway, you can introduce all the same functionality, just in a more streamlined way,' explains Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport.

While it sounds like a bright idea to squeeze a tiny utility into your home, doing so can be tricky. It requires careful planning and a fair amount of compromise on what is actually necessary.

'The key is to think carefully about what you need the space to do. If it’s primarily for laundry, ensure there’s adequate ventilation and easy access to plumbing. If it’s more about cleaning and household storage, tall cabinetry with adjustable shelving will be essential. Above all, it should feel like a seamless extension of your kitchen, both visually and practically,' Richard continues.

'In one approach, we often design tall cupboards dedicated to cleaning supplies, mops, and bulk storage. These act almost like a hidden utility cupboard, where everything has its place but can be closed away neatly behind doors. It’s a clever way to keep a kitchen organised and clutter-free, while still ensuring everyday essentials are close at hand.'

If the main requirement is a space to store a washing machine separately to the kitchen, you can opt for a bespoke built-in cabinet or even a cafe curtain to hide the appliance while creating a small laundry zone, similar to Claire Kennedy's, shown below.

In this Instagram post by Claire Kennedy, she explains how she created a utility room from a metre of space in her kitchen. It's the width of her washing machine and she then created a worktop out of plywood and tiled on top of it. Add in open shelves and voila - a dedicated laundry zone that looks stylish and keeps things organised.

The most sophisticated tiny utilities we see all seem to have one thing in common - a concealed appliance. While you could use the same cabinetry as that in your kitchen for continuity, if you're looking for a budget method then a cupboard curtain is the perfect choice.

If you have room for a taller cabinet, Richard recommends making the most out of vertical space. 'Stacking a washing machine and dryer within tall cupboards keeps them out of sight but easy to access, with space above for baskets or detergents. Painted cabinetry in the same style as the kitchen helps the zone blend in, creating a discreet, integrated look.'

The little extra details are what make a tiny utility special, too. Open shelves add style to an otherwise practical zone, while rattan baskets are perfect for hiding laundry paraphernalia.

Add some small vintage artwork on the walls and you'll create a tiny utility that feels like a treat to use.

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Would you try and squeeze a tiny utility into your home?

Organising a utility room is no simple task. You want to make sure your utility room storage is up to scratch, ready to house cleaning products and kitchen paraphernalia, but you'll also need to find space for small appliances that have no other home.

In order to figure out which small appliances to keep in your utility room, it's useful to rule out the appliances that should have a home elsewhere. This will help to make your kitchen and utility room storage ideas as organised as possible, and will mean that the appliances you use on a daily basis are within reach.

So, which small appliances should you not store in a utility room? These are our top picks on items that should live in a kitchen, plus some small appliances that do have a home in a utility.

Small appliances to not store in a utility room

1. Coffee machine

Top of the list of small appliances not to store in a utility is the one I reach for the most; a coffee machine.

While a coffee machine can be loud, I personally want it as close by as possible, particularly on busy work mornings.

'Coffee machines are one of those appliances that are best kept in the kitchen rather than the utility room. Not only are they used daily, often several times a day, but they are part of the social life of the kitchen,' Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport, explains.

'Placing them in a utility makes them less accessible and can take away from that ritual of making coffee while you are in the heart of the home.'

2. Air fryer

It was my parents who introduced me to the idea of storing an air fryer in a utility room, but I'm not entirely sold, which is why it's made this list. Air fryers can be bulky, particularly if you need a model that feeds a large family, so I can understand wanting to tuck them away.

However, the main selling point of one of the best air fryers is the ease that they bring to meal times. So storing it in a utility room arguably impacts this and adds another step to what is meant to be simple fuss-free cooking.

If you're struggling for worktop space then I would do away with a toaster as you can use an air fryer as a dual-purpose appliance. I have the Our Place Wonder Oven which has replaced my need for a toaster and means it doesn't have to be relegated to the utility room.

Small appliances to store in a utility room

1. Stand mixer

This might be a controversial take, but I think a stand mixer can be stored in a utility room. Although one of the best stand mixers can be a stunning addition to a worktop, unless you're a pro baker they're not an everyday appliance.

Creating a baking zone in a utility room will mean you can house all your baking bits and bobs in one place, keeping it organised and accessible for when you need it. If you have a bread maker, a utility is a great place to keep it, particularly as these appliances tend to be quite loud.

2. Slow cooker

We're heading into slow cooker season, but this isn't a small appliance that deserves main kitchen counter space. A utility room is the perfect place to store a slow cooker - not only are you not using it every day, but when you are, it's bubbling along in the background and doesn't need to be fiddled with.

'The best slow cookers can be one of the most useful kitchen appliances out there, especially for batch cooking, but it's pretty hard to find one you want on your worktop full-time when it comes to design,' explains Ideal Home's Kitchen Appliances Editor, Molly Cleary.

'That's why a utility is likely a good place to stash one away. Just make sure you have a sturdy spot for it as often slow cookers have glass lids or ceramic bowls, and you wouldn't want it getting dropped!'

Do you agree with this list? Or do you have a strong case to make for storing some of these appliances in a utility room?

There's a lot to consider when designing a new kitchen, and choosing a utility room will be a big decision to account for. Having a separate space for laundry is highly sought after, but is it worth losing floor space for? I've asked the experts whether a small kitchen with a utility is better or worse than opting for an open plan kitchen idea.

Both have their merits, it will ultimately be down to your specific home and lifestyle which is best. However, there are some important factors to deliberate over when making the call. How much do you host and dine in your kitchen, for example, and whether your household needs a dedicated zone for laundry.

If you're currently in the process and you're trying to figure out which kitchen layout is best, this advice will help you in the planning journey.

Small kitchen and a utility: pros

Having a separate utility room that you can close the door on is of great benefit for those with busy lives who are prone to mess accumulating. However, it does mean that you lose square footage in the main kitchen.

'If you are choosing between a modest kitchen with a dedicated utility, or one large open-plan space without, our advice is simple: if your home generates regular laundry or everyday mess - kids, dogs, muddy kit - a separate utility will improve life immediately,' explains Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport.

'It removes noise and an abundance of items from the social space and gives you somewhere tough and practical for sorting, soaking and drying, plus a place to hide the bins and bulk shopping. The main kitchen then stays tidy and fit for cooking and hosting rather than doubling as a laundry and boot room,' he adds.

Small kitchen and a utility: cons

The major con to opting for a smaller kitchen and separate utility room is that you're losing the amount of space you have for dining, cooking and socialising in your main kitchen area.

One clever way to bridge the two areas is through a glass-fronted pocket door. It removes the visual clutter and means you can gain more floor space back, while adding light back into the room. It does mean that you have to be a bit more conscious of keeping it tidy so that the mess isn't visible, but it helps to maintain some separation.

Open plan kitchen without utility room: pros

Open plan kitchens have been hugely popular, particularly in family homes where the kitchen becomes a multi-purpose space for hosting, dining, and after-school activities.

By doing away with a separate utility and instead focusing on keeping more of the floorplan for an open-plan kitchen, the flow of the space improves, and you can dedicate specific zones for different purposes.

'Open-plan without a utility can still be the right call for smaller households that don’t run a washing machine daily and want maximum island and dining space. If that’s you, design in protection: specify quiet appliances and strong extraction, and hide laundry behind full-height doors with proper ventilation and drainage, so the room looks and feels like a kitchen, not a utility in disguise,' Richard explains.

Open plan kitchen without utility room: cons

The main downside to an open plan kitchen without a separate utility is of course the fact that there's nowhere to hide mess.

Whether you have dirty laundry that needs a home or extra pieces of kitchenware that aren't used on a daily basis, a utility room is a handy place to store all of this without it impacting your main living and dining space.

It also means that your washing appliances might have to be in your main cooking zone. You can hide these behind cupboard doors, but it is still taking up valuable storage that is otherwise useful for kitchenware.

Verdict

Choosing between these two layouts will come down to your specific lifestyle and needs from your kitchen. If you love entertaining, then opting for a larger kitchen with an island and dining area is more tempting than forgoing it for a utility room.

Working in room for a washing machine and tumble dryer is possible elsewhere in your home, perhaps under the stairs or in a cupboard, so you don't necessarily need to keep it in the kitchen. If you do choose this layout, however, you'll need to make sure you have the best kitchen storage ideas that account for cleaning and laundry products that would otherwise be stored in a utility.

Richard concludes, 'Where the footprint allows, the sweet spot is an open-plan kitchen with a compact utility or bootility tucked behind pocket or hinged doors. If you have to pick one, most family homes will gain more day-to-day value from a smaller kitchen plus a hardworking utility. Couples or city flats that entertain often and have lighter laundry needs will usually prefer one larger, well-planned open space.'

When planning your next kitchen renovation, think carefully about what your day-to-day life genuinely looks like, and then you'll be able to assess whether a separate utility room is right for you.

In busy family homes, a utility room is paramount to ensuring the endless baskets of laundry have a place to go. But if you are lucky enough to already have one, you'll know it becomes much more than an extra storage zone.

A utility room often doubles up as a spot for dumping muddy trainers, storing outdoor wear and dusting off from the garden, which is why a 'bootility' room is the newfound design to strive for.

A bootility combines the practicality of a utility room and a boot room, for an all-in-one space that keeps the mess contained in one room. After all, having room for two separate spaces is a luxury many of us don't have. We spoke to kitchen design experts to dive into exactly what a bootility should include for optimum functionality and bundles of style.

What is a bootility room?

'A bootility is one of the most useful additions you can make to a home because it combines two high-demand spaces – the boot room and the utility – into one. It gives you a defined point where outdoor kit, laundry and everyday clutter can be managed before it spreads into the rest of the house,' explains Richard Davonport, managing director of Davonport.

You don't necessarily need a large space in order to make this work. While it helps to have more square footage to combine adequate storage with a seating area and an additional sink, you can still include the core parts of a boot room within a small utility room.

So what exactly does a bootility require?

'When we design them, we look at the flow of the home: ideally, the bootility sits near a side or back entrance so muddy boots, coats or sports bags are taken straight there,' Richard adds.

'From a cabinetry perspective, a mixture of open and closed storage is often what the final design has; tall cupboards for appliances and cleaning products, open shelves or peg rails for quick-grab items, and a bench with space underneath for shoes.'

Similarly to a utility room, a bootility benefits immensely from an additional sink. It means you can scrub things without worrying about mess in your main kitchen area. Choosing a deep Belfast-style sink will give you room for large pieces of kitchenware or outdoor gear.

How to style a bootility room

A boot room is often also used by guests entering the home, particularly if you have a layout which involves using the back door as the main entrance. Therefore, choosing features which are as chic as they are practical is key.

'Tiles are a brilliant choice here, they are practical, easy to clean, and can be as decorative or as understated as you want them to be,' explains Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

'Porcelain works brilliantly in this setting, whether you go for large-format slabs for a seamless feel, patterned designs to inject character, or stone/wood-effect finishes that bring a softer, natural aesthetic. The right floor makes sure the space works hard without ever feeling purely functional.'

Opting for a muted, pastel shade also brings a traditional touch to a bootility. Take inspiration from the best Farrow & Ball shades for a utility room to bring a put-together touch to a room that inevitably will become messy.

When it comes to storage, built-in cabinetry will be crucial for housing cleaning products, wellies and extra jackets. However, to break up banks of cabinetry, particularly in a smaller room, add rattan baskets to open shelving and consider adding an open shelf above the sink area for decorative touches.

Don't forget the details, either. 'Storage is central to any bootility, and that’s where shelf brackets, rails and hooks come in. These are the details that often go unnoticed until they’re done well. A beautifully cast bracket or a row of hooks can elevate a wall of cabinetry or open shelving, ensuring that even the most functional corners of the home feel carefully designed,' recommends Gareth Hull, design lead at Hendel & Hendel.

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Whether you have a large space to work with or a small utility to turn into a dual-purpose space, these tips will help to inspire a bootility room in any way you can.

The best utility rooms all have one thing in common - a beautiful colour scheme. Despite being hidden off the side of a kitchen or the back of a house, your utility room colour scheme deserves to be just as thoughtfully considered as the rest of your home, and these Farrow & Ball shades are the best place to start.

The heritage paint brand has created palettes with an instantly identifiable quality, in turn creating a high-end design that exudes elegance - even if it is a small and function-first space. While utility room ideas put practicality before anything else, choosing a scheme you love will bring joy to these everyday laundry and cleaning tasks.

So which Farrow & Ball shades work best in a utility room? These three popular colours will feed on beautifully from your kitchen for a chic space that inspires productivity.

1. French Gray

Grey kitchens appear to have gone down in popularity over the last few years in favour of warm-toned neutrals, but French Gray by Farrow & Ball is the exception. It's really more green than grey, making it perfect for a utility room that is close to the garden as it helps to link the two together.

'Utility rooms deserve the same thought as kitchens or living spaces - with the right palette, they become beautiful, characterful rooms you actually enjoy spending time in,' explains Melissa Hutley, Interior Designer & Co-Founder of Hutley & Humm.

'Choosing the right paint colour can completely transform how this hardworking room feels day to day. French Gray is a favourite for its soft, sage-tinged neutrality - calm, timeless, and quietly uplifting, especially in spaces with little natural light.'

2. Green Smoke

As utility rooms are such a small area, they can benefit from a moodier colour scheme that draws the room inwards.

'Green Smoke is ideal for achieving that cosy ‘cottage’ or ‘farmhouse’ look that has become a popular trend in kitchens,' explains Michael Bolland, managing director at The Paint Shed.

'Its calming colour helps soften the stresses of a busy kitchen, making the heart of the home feel grounded and safe. From a practical perspective, Green Smoke is available in a range of finishes suited to kitchen spaces. The Dead Flat formula, for instance, is washable, wipeable, and scuff-resistant, making it perfect for withstanding the demands of daily kitchen life.'

2. Sulking Room Pink

Pink kitchens became a big trend a few years ago, and I still can't get enough of them. While I believe pale pink is essentially a neutral, it's understandable that others might feel differently about decking their kitchen out in this hue.

Instead, a utility room is the perfect place to experiment with a more playful shade. Pale pink is the ultimate choice as it adds personality while still opening up the room and adding light - and Farrow & Ball's Sulking Room Pink is the way forward.

Sulking Room Pink is a slightly more 'grown-up' shade of pink. It's a muted rose with lots of warmth, making your utility a comforting space to enter.

A utility room is a great opportunity to experiment with a different colour scheme, but if you want to coordinate with your cooking area, take a look at the best Farrow & Ball shades for a kitchen to inspire your new look.

It's officially September, and with that comes the internal clock we never quite lose, inviting us to organise and declutter as a marker of the 'new school year.' After the hectic nature of summer, it's time to our homes to give them some much-needed TLC, and a utility room is the perfect place to start.

In my opinion, well organised utility room storage will make tidying other areas of your home much simpler. It gives you a place to store all your cleaning and laundry items, so you can tackle the rest of your home with ease. However, a utility can also fall into disarray fast, which is why when I spotted this IKEA BOAXEL storage unit, I knew it was perfect for an autumn organisation session.

IKEA products always put function first, and this storage collection is no different. Created purposefully for laundry, it will upgrade your utility room ideas in an instant.

A utility room is often top of the wishlist and it's certainly not a given that you'll have one in your home. If you do, or you're planning to create one, practical storage will be the most important thing you plan in.

While you want a utility room to look like a stylish extension of your living spaces, it needs to house cleaning products, laundry supplies and excess kitchenware that has no home elsewhere. If you're not quite ready to invest in an entirely bespoke utility room design, you'll need function-first storage like this iconic IKEA freestanding unit.

To the naked eye, this white wire unit looks pretty simple and understated. However, it will add the perfect amount of storage exactly where it's required. It's caught the eye of the rest of the Ideal Home team, too.

'My current storage situation in my awkwardly sized under-the-stairs utility space leaves a lot to be desired. The shelves I have are of awkward height, so it's difficult to squeeze anything too big onto them. I think this wall-mounted system looks perfect for extracting more from the space I have – I especially love the section for drying delicates and other items you maybe don't want to chuck in the tumble drier,' explains Molly Cleary, Ideal Home's Kitchen Appliances Editor.

What makes utility room storage truly stand out is when the storage works well in terms of how you move around the space. There's no use having your laundry detergent in a cupboard if said cupboard is nowhere near your washing machine - it just makes those daily chores even more tedious.

This freestanding unit slots perfectly over the top of a washing machine or tumble dryer, creating the same storage as a built-in unit without the permanency.

Adding baskets to house your laundry detergent will help to keep the essentials within easy reach, while the wire style will mean you can attach hangers so that clothes don't dry creased.

In some of the most well-designed utility rooms, I've seen pull-out shelves added above built-in laundry appliances to rest baskets on and act as a shelf for folding clothes. It's an innovative idea that isn't just reserved for premium designs - this IKEA shelf means you have the perfect surface for popping freshly folded laundry in a dedicated space.

If you have a larger utility room to kit out, the bigger BOAXEL storage system has a built-in hanging rail that is ideal for keeping your clean clothes orderly.

There are so many configurations available, so you can easily create the exact layout of shelves that you need. Before buying, think about the products you own and the intricacies of your routine to make sure you're planning the right storage.

Shop IKEA utility room storage

This collection comes in two simple shades, but it's still possible to add colour elsewhere in your utility room colour scheme. Consider pairing it with a pretty pink or sophisticated French grey to complete the look and make laundry day more bearable.

Summer is more or less officially over, and with that comes the end of drying laundry outdoors and the beginning of finding handy spots to dry clothes indoors. It's no easy feat, particularly if you have a small utility room with limited room for a clothes horse, but there's a traditional feature making a resurgence: the laundry maid.

Pulley-operated clothes airers are no new discovery, but why fix something that isn't broken? This clever laundry system originated in the late 18th century as an efficient way of drying laundry while keeping it out of the way, but lost popularity when the tumble dryer came to be.

With energy prices as they are, it's time to go back to basics with a budget-friendly utility room idea that is super functional too. While the best heated airers will get your clothes dry in a flash, a pulley-style airer is ideal for small spaces.

Cosy, cottage-inspired interiors are a huge hit in kitchens and utility rooms too, and a laundry maid leans into this classic look perfectly. Here's why you need this handy laundry idea.

Why you need a laundry maid

Aside from providing a handy spot for drying laundry, these pulley-style airers are also a practical way to create a traditional scheme in your utility room.

'There is a strong design logic,' explains Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport. 'The traditional ‘pulley maid’ has roots in Victorian sculleries, so it sits naturally with in-frame cabinetry and painted timber, yet a black powder-coated frame or simple ash laths look clean in a modern scheme too.'

However, as with any utility room or kitchen planning, practicality has to come first in anything you choose.

'Ceiling-mounted clothes airers are back because they are genuinely useful. Warm air gathers at ceiling height, so a pulley rack dries laundry faster than a freestanding horse on the floor,' Richard continues.

Adding a laundry rack can do wonders for the layout of your utility room. A utility is usually always a small space with cabinetry on the top and bottom to maximise storage, so that leaves little room on the walls or floors for a standalone clothes airer.

By optimising your ceiling height, you don't have to find extra storage for an empty rack and you won't be faced with the cumbersome eye sore of laundry drying in the middle of a room.

'You load it at a comfortable height, raise it out of the way, and let gravity soften creases so there’s less ironing. It’s kinder to fabrics than a tumble dryer and it gives you your floor back, which matters in compact kitchens and busy utility rooms,' adds Richard.

Particularly as we get further into the winter months, finding space to dry clothes without constantly having the tumble dryer running is crucial if you want to save on electricity. Less ironing is an added bonus that we can certainly get behind, too.

Shop pulley clothes airers

Do you fancy trying this traditional technique?

Keeping on top of the washing for a family-of-four (including two fashion-conscious teenagers) when the dirty laundry basket seems to fill up daily is a constant challenge. Is it just me or does it always seem to be full of everyone else's dirty clothes rather than my own – how do they get so many clothes dirty so fast?!

I have a small utility room idea (actually, it's not just small, it's tiny!) that's mainly used for laundry, with a stacked tumble dryer and washing machine, plus a handy extra sink. To keep up with the volume of washing, I've needed to employ every space-saving laundry trick in the book, including a few really great products that have genuinely been game-changing.

Top of the list is this drop-down wall-mounted clothes airer from Argos. With minimum floor area and very little worktop space, using vertical solutions like this is a no-brainer.

The clothes airer comes with hooks which I use for items such as small towels or tea towels, then I hang clothes over the rails and pop a few clothes hangers (I have these white wooden hangers from Amazon) along the outer rail for garments such as shirts or sweaters.

I picked up a set of magnetic storage shelves and hooks from Amazon a couple of months ago. Stacking the tumble dryer on top of the washing machine is a great way to store appliances in a utility room, and it means I can attach the magnetic shelves to the side of my dryer. I've been seriously impressed at the weight these shelves will hold – I've stored full bottles of washing detergent on them without them moving an inch. They've really exceeded my expectations, and I give this space-saving laundry trick an enthusiastic thumbs up. They turn what would otherwise be dead space into usable storage, meaning I have less stuff cluttering up the limited worktop area.

My most recent buy was a magnetic lint bin from Amazon. I was fed up of having a small pedal bin cluttering up the floor (I kept tripping over it), and so finding another wall-mounted solution was exactly what was required.

If using the magnetic surface isn't an option, it also comes with self-adhesive hooks so that you can fix it to the wall using those instead. Plus, it includes a handy lint brush, so I can easily keep the tumble dryer clean to make sure it's working as efficiently as possible.

Space-saving laundry storage buys

These nifty little space-saving laundry tricks and hacks have maximised the usable space in my tiny utility room and made tackling the family's laundry much easier, all for under £100.

Utility rooms are one of the rooms in your home where organisation is key. In an area where practicality comes first, making sure it's neat and tidy and everything is stored to perfection will make your life ten times easier. These 5 budget utility room buys will make that happen.

When it comes to looking for utility room storage solutions, it can be tempting to go for the aesthetically-pleasing choices that will give you the dream Instagram-ready set-up. But often times these might not actually be the best option for your space and will result in much more time needed to keep your utility organised on a daily and weekly basis.

Let's face it, none of us have time to dedicate part of our weekend to constantly sorting and tidying our utilities. Storage solutions that actually make life easier and work for our daily lives are key, and making sure they're affordable is even more important. A utility isn't front and centre in your home, so saving that money for more aesthetic home updates will make more sense. We've rounded up 5 of our favourite budget utility room buys that get the Ideal Home stamp of approval, ready just in time for your September back-to-school reset.

1. Make laundry day easy

The Joseph Joseph laundry basket is an Ideal Home team favourite. It's hard to go wrong with any Joseph Joseph picks to organise your small utility room or kitchen (we recently spotted Ruth Langsford's kitted-out sink), but this will make laundry days considerably simpler.

With 90L of space, you won't have to worry about your laundry basket getting full too quickly. When it comes to taking your laundry from the bedroom to the utility, you can simply lift out the section you need (light or dark) and carry it downstairs. It keeps the different loads organised and will save your back when carting it to the washing machine. Dare we say revolutionary?

2. Transform your broom storage

A utility room is the perfect place to store larger cleaning items that don't really have a spot anywhere else in the home. Whether that's a broom, duster or even your vacuum cleaner, finding a way to organise them will make your home feel much tidier.

While a full-length cupboard is the dream, if you aren't renovating your utility room and still want a way to store them then a broom-mop wall holder will be a great budget utility room fix.

3. Create an aesthetically-pleasing space

One of the most budget-friendly utility room buys that makes the biggest difference are jar labels. If you want your utility room to look pretty as well as be super organised then decanting cleaning products into jars will be the simple trick you need.

Getting rid of unsightly packaging and instead filling your shelves with aesthetically pleasing glass jars will give you that perfect farmhouse look. Adding handwritten labels will be the finishing touch while also making it easy to see what's inside.

4. Keep things hidden with baskets

Angela Scanlon recently gave us the best pantry organisation hack which involved using wooden crates as storage bins instead of individually decanting every item, saving you so much time when it comes to restocking.

We love this idea for your utility room too - whether it's for extra microfiber cloths, additional coffee pods or even laundry pods, your utility room will automatically look neater with baskets filling the shelves.

5. Create extra storage with a trolley

If a full utility room renovation isn't within budget but you still need a quick fix for adding lots of storage, then a trolley is the way to go.

Moveable trolleys are one of our favourite organisation hacks for small spaces. They allow flexibility on where they're placed so that you can move between your utility room and kitchen with ease. We love using these for cleaning products as you can push it around the downstairs of your home without needing to do multiple trips to pick things up. Your cleaning routine is about to get so much smoother.

FAQs

How should you organise a utility room?

Organising a utility room can be tricky. They're notoriously small spaces yet they're a room that we rely so heavily on to house extra kitchen and cleaning essentials, as well as our laundry. In short, a lot is going on in a utility room so there's no shame if yours doesn't look Instagram-ready. But if you want to make it a bit easier to navigate them these organisation rules will help.

'Organising a utility room efficiently can make tasks easier and keep the space functional. If your space is organised, the cleaning of your utility room will be so much easier. These are my tips to help you organise your utility room effectively,' explains Gervaise Ovin, professional cleaner at Wecasa.

'Divide the utility room into zones based on the type of items stored or the tasks performed. For example, have a laundry zone, a cleaning supplies zone, and an ironing storage zone,' she continues.

'Then, maximise storage by making use of the walls and ceiling by incorporating hanging space and shelves. Level up your wall shelves by choosing ones with built-in towel bars for example and install a hanging airer. Use hooks or pegboards to hang mops, ironing boards and brooms on the walls.'

Which utility room life-saver are you going to be hitting 'buy' on?

If you're lucky enough to have a utility room, or you're considering adding one to your home, then you'll also want to make sure it's your dream design. Regardless of whether it's an add-on to your existing kitchen scheme or not, understanding the answer to 'Should a utility room match your kitchen?' will make the decision-making process significantly easier.

Although a utility room is often a separate room closed off by a door, close proximity to the kitchen can leave it feeling like an extension of a cooking space. It's likely that the room will often be left with the door open and used for kitchen-adjacent tasks, so creating a bridge between the two in terms of design will be key to taking your interior decor to the next level.

However, a utility room is a practicality-first space that won't be front and centre for guests to see, so if you're looking for ways to cut costs, cabinetry and materials that match your kitchen might not be the best idea. But what should you be doing? We asked kitchen experts whether you should be matching a utility room to your kitchen so that you can plan your new design properly.

Should a utility room match a kitchen?

If you're planning a utility room renovation at the same time as doing your kitchen, it might make sense to go for a matchy-matchy scheme. If you're buying extra materials from the same retailer then you might be able to save some money and it will help to ensure that extra resources don't go to waste.

However, no rule says you can't make a design statement by choosing a contrasting look.

'There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to whether your utility should match your kitchen, though we tend to find that homeowners generally want the space to flow, with the same style of cabinets,' explains Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport.

Giverny Simm, lead designer at Studio Howes, adds, 'A small utility room is a great opportunity to experiment with colour and personality. Like a w.c., it’s the perfect space to introduce a statement wallpaper or a bold feature ceiling. While it’s important to connect the utility room to the kitchen’s colour palette, it’s definitely a place where you can afford to get more creative and fun.'

In short, there is no right or wrong decision, but we do recommend forming at least one connection from the utility room to the kitchen. Whether it's through colour, materials or the style of units, these ideas will inspire an uninterrupted design.

1. Form a foundation with the cabinetry style

If you want to be playful with your utility room colour ideas then there is no harm in picking a more 'out-there' shade. A smaller space is the ideal spot to experiment and as it's often only seen by those living in the house, it will feel like your own secret zone to go to town with colour and pattern.

However, if you're going to choose a different colour scheme but still want to blend the two rooms together, then go for the same cabinet door style. Shaker kitchen doors create a classic look that won't date and look on-trend with almost any colour. It also means you'll be able to update the look over time by repainting.

2. Bridge the gap with a similar colour

'Colour also plays a crucial role if you do wish the two rooms to feel connected. It can be used to connect rooms without erasing their individual character and functionality,' explains William from Davonport.

This doesn't mean that you have to pick the exact same colour of cabinets for your utility room, you can instead pepper one shade throughout the design to subtly connect the schemes.

'For example, we often see kitchen islands painted in a secondary shade to the rest of the kitchen to create a focal point. This colour could then be used in a utility or boot room to connect the two. There is also the option of using different shades of the same colour to create a similar effect, depending on how closely you’d like the two spaces to feel,' William adds.

3. Paint in the same shade

There is no denying the elegant effect of a matching utility room that extends seamlessly from the kitchen. If your utility feeds on from the main cooking area quite openly, without a door to close it off, then choosing a light tonal look will keep it feeling bright and spacious.

This is also a great way to make a kitchen feel bigger too. Matching the cupboards and colour palette will minimise visual clutter - so if there is any actual clutter (which is guaranteed in a utility), it will look much more streamlined. We love Little Greene 'French Grey' for a super chic farmhouse-inspired look.

4. Completely contrast with a bold hue

If you're going to mismatch your utility room from your kitchen, it's worth doing it right. Choosing a colour with a slight tonal difference to your kitchen, for example grey and beige, will create a confusing look that isn't quite obvious enough. Instead, opt for two shades with an obvious contrast.

It's common to choose a lighter colour palette for your kitchen to make the space feel larger and make it more timeless, so a smaller utility room is the perfect place to go for that bold colour your heart is set on. Complete with a glass connecting door to get a taste of the dramatic hue from your cooking space. 'Downpipe' by Farrow & Ball is one of our favourite charcoal tones that will look premium in any setting.

5. Create a continuous flow with flooring

Utility room flooring is one of the most important decisions you will make for your space. In a practical area where there are likely to be messy paws, cleaning product spillages and wet laundry, it needs to be moisture-resistant and non-slip.

But aside from practicality, flooring is a great design tool to merge your utility room and kitchen. If you've opted for different styles of cabinetry or a different colour scheme then picking the same flooring and laying it in a continuous pattern will subtly lead the eye into the next room.

Are you tempted to go matchy-matchy or not? We love the idea of choosing one feature, whether that's a material, colour or cabinet style, to tie the two rooms together then having a bit of fun with the rest of the design.

Dubbed the engine room of the home, utilities have come a long way from the boring storage rooms of old. These days they may be just as functional, but they’re also an extension of the rest of your home, with stylish décor and clever design details that make it a room to show off rather than hide away, whatever its shape or size.

Factor in a modern country aesthetic, which takes its inspiration from rural life, and you’ll have a utility room full of relaxed yet elegant charm that makes laundry day a pleasure and that you’ll enjoy spending time in. I style homes for magazine and campaign shoots for a living so I've seen my fair share of gorgeous utility room ideas.

From made-to-measure storage to beautiful tiles and laundry additions, I’ve listed some key features I'd always include to give you the modern utility of dreams…

1. Space-saving airer

Keep your utility floor free of chunky airers and opt for a hanging or wall-hung version instead, which can be pulled up and down as needed. These days you can find them in plenty of different styles too, from blonde Scandi-style wood to designs with period-look brass pulleys.

Consider where to hang your clothes airer so as to keep it out of the way – like this one which has been tucked neatly over the worktop in line with the base cabinetry run.

2. Open shelving

Utility rooms have always been practical but nowadays they’re getting much more attention in terms of décor, resulting in stylish spaces to display even the most basic of goods in an attractive fashion.

Modern country utility rooms, for example, often have open shelving as one of the key features, and much like a kitchen you can use them to display everything from storage boxes to washing powder and pet treats. Decant cleaning goods into smart glass jars and line up on a shelf so they’re easy to reach and you can easily see when you need to stock up.

3. Smart storage

Just because your utility is likely to house everything from the washing machine and ironing board to the vacuum and pantry goods doesn’t mean it can’t look as stylish as any other room in your home. Invest in some bespoke cabinetry utility room storage ideas that can hide everything away, with in-frame Shaker-style doors to emphasise that classic modern-country vibe.

Don’t be afraid to take your cabinetry right up to the ceiling in order to fit stacked appliances – it means you won’t have to bend down so often when doing the laundry. Elevate the look with metallic knobs and handles and why not hang an under-cupboard rail to hang garments once they’re ironed?

4. Practical flooring

It may not be the largest of rooms, but it still needs to be able to withstand heavy traffic, meaning a functional utility flooring ideas are essential. Something that’s easy to wipe clean is a good idea being that most utility rooms will incorporate a sink and splashes are likely – plus if it’s used to store muddy boots then it’s the most practical option.

Opt for classic choices, such as ceramic or porcelain tiles, and ensure they are moisture-resistant to safeguard your flooring from damp, steam and water.

5. Roomy sink

For a modern country look, you can’t beat the charm of a butler sink, especially one in a standout material like this elegant veined marble. The beauty of a butler sink is that they’re usually a bit wider than a normal basin, making them ideal for hand-washing clothes (or the dog!).

Plus, a dedicated utility sink has loads of benefits – not least that it frees up your kitchen sink – and paired with a tap with a pull-out spray makes another practical utility addition.

Get the look

These ideas are sure to create a beautiful country-style utility room that inspires you to get chores done. Will you be recreating any of them in your home?

Buying new appliances is an investment for your home that requires some serious thinking. After all, you want to make the perfect choice, confident that it will stand the test of time – and the challenges of modern life.

So if you're looking for a website that helps you find the appliances you need at unbeatable prices then AO is the one for you. Amongst the fantastic array of brands showcased on AO is Beko, who have been working hard to create appliances that are durable enough to withstand anything your family throws at them.

Stress-tested to keep you stress free

Beko takes designing durable product seriously, so if you’re looking for a buy once, use forever appliance, then they might just be the brand for you. Every appliance created goes through a number of rigorous testing processes, so you’re safe in the knowledge that they’ve put these appliances through their paces.

So, what sort of tests have they been doing? Well, for example, their fridge freezer door durability test involves it being open and closed up to a whopping 300,000 times, and the glass shelf endurance test includes weight testing it with up to 150kg for over 8 hours – meaning however many times your fridge is raided, or however much food prep has been done, the appliance can handle it. Likewise, Beko dishwashers are tested to ensure that the lower basket can hold an incredible 16kg over 100,000 cycles, while built-in ovens go through door and hinge durability tests of up to 15,000 opens and closes – that’s a lot of cake baking!

In a nutshell - no matter how much you and your family will be using these Beko appliances, they’re able to roll with the punches and last a lifetime. Now that’s an investment that sounds worth making. What’s more, selected Beko appliances even come with a 10 Year Parts Guarantee to give you that extra peace of mind.

Stress free solutions

With Beko appliances getting a big old tick in our books, it’s time to let you know exactly why AO is a website we return to time after time. And it’s not just us, as they boast over 500,000 5 star Trustpilot reviews from other happy customers.

Organising deliveries can be the bane of an online order, but with AO it couldn’t be smoother. You can pick the day that suits you best (yes, even weekends), including next day delivery. Plus, you’ll receive regular updates about your package’s progress, and you can even keep in touch with the driver should you have any questions. Once your new appliance arrives, they can install it for you and even take care of recycling your old appliance. You can really tell that every step is designed to make your life easier and hassle-free.

We also love the price matching, meaning that if you can find a product cheaper elsewhere, AO will match the new price - the dream! Add to that the dedicated deals pages for electronics and you can rest easy knowing you’ve got the best prices at your fingertips. And if something is on the larger end of the investment scale? Then check out the range of ways to pay, such as AO finance, which allows you to pay the cost over a time scale that works for you.

So if you’re looking for an appliance that’s built to last, at a price that can’t be beaten and delivered in the smoothest way possible, then make sure to explore the Beko range and shop now at ao.com.

Investing in one of the best clothes airers on the market is something of a wash day necessity, especially when wet weather makes outdoor drying an impossibility. 

And, whilst any clothes airer will allow you to hang wet washing indoors, the best clothes airers will help to air dry clothes more efficiently, plus, one size doesn't always fit all.

If you want the fastest way to dry wet washing in the cooler months of the year, then opting for one of the best heated clothes airers or one of the best dehumidifiers on the market can cut drying times considerably. However, both of these options are going to cost more money than your average clothes airer, so if you want to dry washing indoors for less, we've rounded up the best standard clothes airers money can buy right here. 

We've included affordable options from Amazon and Argos as well as best-in-class designs from Brabantia and Lakeland, plus plenty of buying advice from the experts at the end of this buying guide.

Best clothes airers 2026

How to choose the best clothes airer for your home

While the options for choosing the best clothes airer for your home are vast, there are a couple of things we recommend considering before purchasing one to ensure it's the best fit for you.

'As autumn rolls around and wet weather makes drying washing outdoors an difficult task, a good indoor clothes airer becomes an essential addition to the home', says our Ecommerce Editor, Amy Lockwood, 'especially if you're looking to save energy at home and cut on the cost of running a tumble dryer.'

That's why thinking through the best drying rack ideas for your home can help you to speed up the laundry process and make wash day less of a chore.

Here are some things to look for when choosing the best clothes airer, as advised by Lauren Roelofs, laundry category manager at Brabantia.

• A good size – you want it to hold at least one load of laundry plus some hangers.
• Storage – easy to put up and store away.
• Something with a transport lock makes it easy to bring it in the house, even when fully loaded, and also prevents collapsing around kids!
• Practical – adjustable wings are handy for hanging long trousers and loops for your clothes hangers add extra drying space.
• Made to last – buy well, buy once, and all that.

Amy agrees, 'You'll want to look for an airer that's big enough to accommodate a full laundry load for your household. Most airers give you an idea of how many metres of drying space they offer in their specifications so you can gauge how much washing will fit.'

'You'll also want to consider what type of washing you need to dry – longer items like sheets, towels, and adult's dresses and trousers suit a taller airer, whereas children's clothes can fit better on a tiered design.'

'Although it's tempting to opt for a compact airer to save on space, that generally means the drying racks will be closer together which means washing will take longer to dry. Ideally, you want a clothes airer with well-spaced racks so there's plenty of space for air to circulate which means washing will dry quicker.'

FAQs

Whichever clothes airer you choose to opt for, just remember to consider all your needs within your own living space and whittle your options down accordingly. Then, you'll be able to get the most out of this household essential.

Not even Stacey Solomon is exempt from being in need of a hearty Sunday reset to get through her decluttering checklist and mammoth cleaning to-do list to get rid of the 'save for later' things – and oddly enough, it's given us the reassurance that not every inch of our home has to look perfect and pristine at all times.

It's okay to fake a tidy house when worst comes to worst, but as much as we might hate to admit to it (or even participate in it when we're feeling overwhelmed), there's nothing like a good autumn deep clean.

Well, we happen to know how exactly to get stuck into cleaning and organising our own home's nooks and crannies that may never see the light, Stacey Solomon style.

Stacey Solomon's utility room essentials

Last Sunday evening, Stacey Solomon posted a series of Instagram stories sharing the saga of deep cleaning and organising her utility room. Although the stories are no longer available to view, don't fret as we've got all the details for you to indulge in her must-haves for getting through her Sunday reset.

'I go away for work for a few days and every garment in the entire house is worn, half washed, kind of sorted, but never put away,' starts Stacey.

In the next story, she continues, 'Had a mad hour and just went for it. Still washing that needs doing but at least it fits in the hidden baskets and for now, my brain feels clear before the school run tomorrow.' 

Here are our highlights from her documented organising process in her home which sports a gorgeous green utility room colour, and is nothing less than what we expect from the queen of cosy herself.

1. An indoor clothes line

Stacey's utility room is stocked with an indoor clothesline for hanging larger garments, such as towels and bedding, so the first of her tasks is to collect and fold these bits of washing.

If you want to follow suit in drying clothes fast but don't have heated clothes airer, you can purchase a retractable washing line you can utilise as well as tuck away when it's not needed if you have a small utility room and need the extra space.

2. Labelled jars for laundry supplies

Whether it's for a utility room storage idea, kitchen storage idea, or bathroom storage idea, if there's one thing that we will always recommend time and time again, it's decanting your cleaning products and laundry supplies (or even laundry detergent alternatives) into clear jars and labelling them accordingly.

Not only does it elevate the overall look of your room and make everything look more cohesive, but you know exactly when things need to be topped up.

Stacey shows herself partaking in the exact same storage practice, topping up her laundry powder and detergent jars so they're ready for the next wash day.

3. Rattan laundry baskets

Stacey whisks away all the freshly washed laundry in these beautiful rattan baskets, which we believe is the IKEA SNIDAD basket that certainly makes an eye-catching statement in her home.

However, if you were after a more affordable alternative, we think Dunelm's Plastic Natural Small Rattan Basket is an equally gorgeous pickup that won't break the bank.

And just like that, you're well on your way to being a step closer to achieving your own version of Pickle Cottage's utility room in your own home with these star bargain buys.

As much as we love these spaces, without the right boot room storage ideas in place, your area designed to curb the everyday messes might actually be doing more harm than good.

In fact, as much as we love a good storage solution in just about any space, few can benefit from careful organisation as much as your existing, or planned, boot room ideas. 

Having a dedicated space, where everything has its own place that greet you as soon as you step foot in the door is extremely satisfying. Especially if you’re fed up with shoes under the bed, hats and gloves crammed in nooks and crannies and wellies being forced to live in the car for lack of another home. 

Rachal Hutcheson, national retail manager at Sharps explains that our ever-growing need for storage has helped fuel the current boot room boom. 'Maximising every inch of space is an important issue for most homes, especially for large and busy families. Living with practical and accessible storage is key and there has been a growing demand for boot rooms and cloakrooms.'

Boot room storage ideas

Vicky Silverthorn, from the professional organising company, You Need A Vicky explains that not planning your outerwear storage correctly will lead to clutter. She told us, 'In most homes when shoes and boots and coats are stored in passageways they usually overspill and create a messy look.'

But for these spaces to really perform to their fullest potential, careful planning and designing of the boot room storage ideas included are vital. 

1. Make your built-ins sleek and chic

If you’re having your boot or utility room built from scratch, spend extra time on the plans because although the practicality of the space is vital, having lots of storage solutions packed into one area can quickly make it feel cluttered and busy.

'There is much that can be done to ensure a boot room flows as a chic extension of the main rooms, and provides a multitude of usable features to keep your space looking streamlined and tidy,' explains Ruth Lavender, a design expert at Benchmarx Kitchens.

Think about implementing a simple colour scheme, have as much storage hidden as possible and go for a cohesive approach to accessories.

2. Fake it with a well-designed cupboard

If a dedicated boot room is your dream, but space just won’t allow for it, get smart with your hallway storage ideas and introduce a hard-working cupboard or bench tree to fake the look instead. Ruth suggests, 'A set of cabinets strategically placed in your hallway or porch can work just as well, and become a feature of the hallway whilst looking more purposeful than a set of hooks for hanging coats.'

3. Make use of vertical space

When it comes to boot room storage ideas, it’s important to utilise every inch of the space, from top to bottom. If you’re having the storage fitted bespoke, make sure all cabinetry goes right up to the ceiling with no gaps. 

If you’re putting together your own boot room with a variety of furniture pieces, look for cubbies and boxes that fit atop cupboards and make use of wall space with hooks and shelving so you can work in even the smallest of small utility rooms.

4. Work baskets and boxes into the design

Storage cupboards are great, but for a real organisational masterpiece, specific storage for small items is also needed to be integrated into your utility room design. Think about adding matching wicker baskets to house handbags and kid’s school backpacks. 

Include boxes for your bags for life or boot room cleaning cloths and supplies. And don’t forget somewhere to store wet umbrellas. The key here is keeping your boot room clutter-free, with a special place for everything to go.

5. Include space for hidden compartments

Whilst traditionally a boot room is designed to house your outerwear and shoes, with some clever planning it can be so much more and help you avoid utility room design mistakes. Put our boot room storage ideas to good use by including areas for household must-haves. 'Include organisational features to make life feel more efficient,' echoes Rachal from Sharps.

Think about including a sink, a hidden laundry basket so you can throw muddy jackets and wet socks in right away, as well as somewhere for a mop to clean up muddy footprints in a hurry.

6. Have space for man’s best friend

Sara Seymour, Senior Designer at kitchen company Et Lorem says that in recent years the company has 'seen an increase in the need for dog washing facilities.' Which isn’t much of a surprise since rainy season in the UK seems to last longer and longer each year, so your beloved pooch is more likely to come in filthy than clean after a good walk. 

Having a specific area to clean up your pup and then a bed for them to get cosy in afterward would be a fabulous boot room addition.

7. Don’t trade style for practicality

When putting together your boot room storage ideas, don’t forget about injecting some style. 'Add decorative accents to enhance the space, making it look and feel considered when it comes to design,' suggests Rachal from Sharps. 'Coloured panelling, statement handles, and tiled utility room flooring will help elevate any space.'

If you have a lot of cabinetry, it’s also worth thinking about having interior lighting installed professionally but for a quick and practical fix that still looks stylish, adhesive motion sensor battery lights are a great option. Also, don’t shy away from beautiful textiles in this heavy foot traffic area, just make sure they’re hardy and machine washable. 

8. Go for a storage bench

When planning the space, don’t forget somewhere to sit to pull off your wellies and rest your weary legs. As with all of these boot room storage ideas, making each item work hard is paramount given the storage demands of the room. So be sure to go for a bench that includes space to store items such as blankets or extra accessories.

9. Keep clutter hidden

 If you don’t want every surface of your boot room to be cluttered with items, consider going for smart storage solutions for small spaces that can house all the little things that never seem to have a dedicated space.  We’re talking keys, dog leads, sunnies and hats – give them a home when designing the room.

10. Consider your shoe storage

From sandals and flip flops to knee highs and wellies, a well thought out boot room caters to them all. By making sure there are different sized cubbies, boxes or strands for all sizes of footwear, your space will look sleek and organised.

FAQs

Utility rooms might be a bit of a luxury, however, if you've made the effort to carve out a dedicated space it deserves to be treated with respect and some beautiful utility colour ideas.

Utility rooms are very much in demand; there’s even potential for utility room ideas to add value. Imagine a space for the laundry, the muddy boots and a second sink (and that’s before we talk utility room storage ideas). But who says such a practical space needs to be dull? Our utility room colour ideas can transform this practical room into a stylish space that you might even find you enjoy doing the chores in! 

‘Thanks to Instagram, these new must-have spaces are being decorated with the same consideration and care as more public rooms, despite their utilitarian purpose,’ says Original BTC director, Charles Bowles.

Utility room colour ideas 

'Utility rooms are quickly becoming the latest space to add value to your home, offering great potential for both style, storage and colour,' says Ben Burbidge, managing director, Kitchen Makers.

Discover how you can make your utility room a colourful space – and one that will make those household chores more enjoyable. 

1. Be versatile with apple green

Apple green is a lovely shade to consider for a utility room, easy on the eye and warming too which makes it ideal if the space is north facing and a little dark. 

'Green has quickly become a staple shade; earthy and elegant, it gives a classic twist to traditional neutrals, while adding depth and balance. It’s a colour we associate with the outdoors and, when used correctly, it can breathe life into the heart of the home. 

'An ideal choice for a utility room, create a statement by pairing green cabinetry with dark grey walls. This contrast of colour allows the units to take centre stage,' says Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr.

2. Jazz up a white scheme with tiles

If you love your existing paint colours in your utility but fancy a touch of pattern then research flooring for a decorative touch. 

'Practical flooring is essential in any utility room,' says Jemma Dayman, hard flooring buyer at Carpetright. 'Vinyl flooring, known for being easy to clean and maintain, is an ideal choice of flooring for a utility room, which sees the comings and goings of a busy family life. 

'Many vinyl flooring options are also slip and water-resistant, perfect for a room which houses laundry equipment. Offering an endless array of colours, patterns, and designs, vinyl flooring is not only practical but can also be used to enhance the look of your utility room.'

3. Mix gloss and matt paint finishes

Whether you pick a pretty pink, pale blue or bold orange, you can add a further design feature by having a play with paint finishes, especially if you want to create a stand out utility space – let's give them the love they deserve!

‘Paint finishes, from high gloss to chalky matt, have a profound effect on colour,' says Andy Greenall, creative director, Paint & Paper Library.

'I love to see finishes used in surprising ways; the same colour set side by side in contrasting finishes will create a contemporary moment in a traditional space. Consider juxtaposing the chalky matt Architects’ Matt with our high sheen Architects’ Gloss.’

4. Choose mid-tones for a Shaker style look

If your home is classic then follow that through in your utility room. Traditional colours of blue and green have an elegant feel and look great with a warm wood worktop. 

Add in a peg rail in a contrasting light colour like off-white and the result will be a nod to the iconic Shaker style we know and love so much. 

5. Can't decide on a colour? Opt for monochromatic

Black and white is clean and fresh colour scheme that's worth considering. It's striking and practical. Keep the black on the cabinetry and the white from the worktop up. 

If you want to add in a touch of colour consider blush pink or pale green as a subtle accent. 

6. Pick creams for a small space

Small utility rooms do benefit from pale colours, if you don't want to go for a crisp white then take it down a notch with a creamy shade that will still do the job. 

Forever versatile, there's a wide spectrum of creams from cooler tones to warming options – you could even consider stone, oatmeal or beige. 

7. Opt for shades of green for farmhouse style

Can't decide on one single colour for your utility room? Pick two shades instead. Use one for your cabinetry and the other for the walls.

'One of the most popular colour choices for cabinetry is dark green,' says Ben Burbidge, managing director, Kitchen Makers. 'Often combined with a neutral backdrop it’s a colour that feels elegant and timeless, utility rooms are quickly becoming the latest space to add value to your home, offering great potential for both style and storage.'

8. All over white for a crisp finish

There's something so classically beautiful about white, it uplifts and freshens which makes it a suitable choice for a utility room! But how do you choose which white to pick? 

‘White is often one of the most difficult shades to choose, mainly because there are many nuances and hues so finding the right tone of white can be a challenge!' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director, Little Greene. 

'Many people make the mistake of using a ‘Brilliant White’ but this can be very harsh, too bright and often a little sterile so I would certainly steer clear of pure white and recommend considering ‘off-whites’ - whites with an undertone of another colour, or soft neutrals, these will be easier on the eye and more complementary within a design scheme, such as ’Linen Wash’, a lovely gentle white.'

9. Create a modern look with inky blues

Utility rooms can be dark and dingy, so the thought of using a dark colour may seem counter intuitive, but, if you pick the right shade and add in some white for balance it can look fabulous. 

'Dark colours can still work well in a smaller utility room,' says Rebecca Nokes, design director, John Lewis of Hungerford.  'Opt for a deep navy or dark grey and team with a white sink and pale wood detailing for a contemporary look.'

10. Go bold with vibrant red

Utility rooms are often hidden away rather like a pantry, and can be decorated with leftover paint. But how about you treat yours to a colour you've always yearned to use but don't feel it works in your kitchen? 

A bold red will be eye-catching to say the least, break it up with crisp white so it doesn't feel overpowering. 

11. Go for a lime green

Make natural wood units zing with a fresh utility room colour scheme. Try a lime-yellow shade for the walls, with a softer peach tile. Panelling is a great practical utility room design idea for a hardworking utility room, but protect any high-splash areas with a splashback or tiles.

Work in touches of black to give definition – like a black tap or wall brackets for a shelf up above your sink area.

12. Add pops to an all-white space

If your home is white, why not add hits of bright colour to your utility room through accessories? Colourful towels, baskets – and even wellies – can bring style to shelves. 

Open shelving is a great choice for a utility room storage idea, allowing you to easily see things immediately, however you’ll need to be tough and not let them become cluttered, especially if your utility room leads off from a living area used by visitors.

13. Update units with an electric blue

Looking for bright utility room colour ideas? Try painting wooden units and panelling a bright cobalt blue – it’s a great partner to natural wood and materials. It is a smart budget utility room idea, that will make the space look more expensive. 

Brass handles look striking contrasted against the blue, while white walls help keep the space fresh.

Fit a shallow low-level shelf around your walls, providing utility room storage space for essentials as well as room to display a few frames, helping to create a space with personality as well as practicality.

14. Be brave with classic navy

Often in small utility rooms, we shy away from dark shades, whereas they can help create a unified space that feels bigger. Take the colour from floor-to-ceiling on one wall, balancing with white on the others; this will help visually push the wall further away. 

Bring in plenty of texture, with wicker, seagrass and oak, balancing the darker shades. A peg rail makes the perfect space to display essentials with that utilitarian look.

15. Add colour with a splashback

Splashbacks will protect the walls of your utility room, while offering the chance to bring in a new colour. Try a teal blue with darker base units, using oak worktop and shelving to define the splashback space. 

Painted panelling in a hardwearing eggshell looks great, but if you need something more durable, then try a splashback in coloured glass or tiles. 

16. Opt for a bright teal in a tiny space

Blue and white always make for a clean-looking scheme, so why not paint the walls of your utility room a soft teal shade? White marble tiles look crisp, while a black window frame and radiator help to create a touch of drama in this practical space.

Don’t overlook the warm honey tones of natural wood and wicker – sometimes it can provide the perfect accent colour while providing a texture boost at the same time.

17. Add colour with a blind

For a quick utility room makeover, try a roller or Roman blind in a retro-inspired print, which can be echoed in kitchen linens and even your choice of mug! Look for a design that has the same background colour as your walls and units – the motif will really pop.

When choosing fabric for your blind, decide on the look you want to create for your utility room. Try a retro-inspired design or a shabby chic print – it’s an easy way to change things up. Home decor discount codes are worth a look to help cut down on the expense here.

18. Link your utility to your garden

Utility rooms are often the last room we walk through en route to the garden, so why not be inspired by nature, with a green colour scheme and a hero leaf wallpaper design? It’s a great combination for rooms that are naturally light and fresh. If you need more light, there are plenty of ways to increase utility room lighting, such as spotlights or a central pendant.

Paint units a rich jade colour, keeping worktops and the sink crisp white. Line shelves with vases and gardenalia, helping to bridge that indoor/outdoor gap. 

In any busy home, creating a functional spot for chores and general storage is key. But it's even more crucial that it also complements the rest of your interior, which is where modern utility room ideas come into play.

Utility rooms are a sought-after space in any modern home, offering an area to complete mounds of laundry in peace, and store house cleaning products and appliances. They can make or break how streamlined your day-to-day life is, so it's important to design a utility room with the most contemporary features in mind so that it will help the cogs run smoothly.

‘The utility room – one of the most coveted extra spaces in the home – has experienced a huge design renaissance in recent years,' says Jo Jackson, market product manager UK & Ireland at Fisher & Paykel. 'What was traditionally a functional room to house laundry appliances is now a multipurpose space that is an integral part of a seamless kitchen design rather than an afterthought.'

From the latest storage solutions to stylish design features that will make the space look expertly curated, there are a number of considerations to take into account when planning a modern utility room. By following a few simple tips, you can easily achieve an up-to-date space that will make laundry day feel like a treat.

Modern utility room ideas

Be inspired by your kitchen, carrying on the same look; alternatively, be brave and try something completely different. At the heart of our modern utility room ideas lies great storage, whether behind unit doors or shelving that makes a feature of dead wall space.

1. Go for a sleek, neutral scheme

Utility rooms are typically a busy space that can easily become overwhelmed with dirty washing, excess cleaning products and general clutter that has no other home. To counteract the mess, opt for a neutral colour scheme to bring solace to your home.

A pared-back palette is also great if you want to match your utility to your kitchen, as you can slightly vary the shades but still create a harmonious design.

2. Go for a fun, colourful look

If neutral colour palettes aren't your thing, then a utility room is the perfect place to be playful with colour. Ever felt that pull to use your favourite bright colour in your kitchen but not felt quite brave enough? A small room that isn't as visible is the ideal spot.

Whether it's pink, red, blue or green, tie it into your wider kitchen scheme by using this colour to accessorise in a cooking space.

3. Tower it up

Modern utility rooms all have one thing in common - functionality. A laundry room's primary purpose is a space to house appliances and complete chores, so it makes sense to make this as streamlined as possible.

Stacking appliances not only provides you with more floor space to use for storage, but it also makes laundry day that little bit easier. Maximising the height of the room means you don't have to bend down as often and you can instead transport laundry from top to bottom with ease.

'The modern utility is a space that’s not only functional but also fun in the way it is designed. One functionality you should consider including is a washing machine and tumble dryer stack, especially with a pull-out basket tray between the two,' recommends William Durrant, owner of Herringbone Kitchens.

4. Take on task lighting

One way to make a utility room feel contemporary is by carefully selecting lighting. It can be easy to go for a standard overhead light in a space that feels primarily functional, but mixing in task lighting will make a room feel stylish and like an extension of the rest of your home.

Including lamps and sconces in your utility room lighting selection will provide added illumination for detail-oriented chores and ambience for when laundry goes on into the night.

'Thanks to Instagram, these new must-have spaces are being decorated with the same consideration and care as more public rooms, despite their utilitarian purpose,' says Charlie Bowles, director of Original BTC. 'Often small and awkwardly shaped, lighting is a great way to make these small spaces more inviting and of course, a well-lit room makes work of any kind far more enjoyable.'

5. Go for an on-trend metal

The key is in the detail, so pay attention to the metal hardware you choose for a utility room. Metallic trends change frequently, but they're easy to swap out if you want to make your space as modern as possible.

Brass hardware will make cupboards look impeccably styled and they wear well over time which is essential for a high-traffic area. You can also match them to door handles and a tap for a cohesive look.

6. Make it a place for pets

Pets make a house a home, so it's important to make room for them in your design. Adding a pet basin to a utility room extends the functionality, meaning you don't need to worry about washing them off in a bathtub after a muddy walk.

'We have found that fitted-in dog basins were particularly popular with buyers giving the new owners ability to wash their dog's paws before entering a home,' adds Karolina Adamczyk, director of Ademchic.

Not only will a dog basin help to keep your utility room flooring as clean as possible, but it also adds an extra spot for washing off muddy shoes and outdoor gear.

7. Make room for boots

If you're planning a utility room renovation and want to make it as useful as possible then why not add a boot room in? There's no need to have these as two separate rooms, instead adding a bench and storage area into a utility will make it much more useful, especially for those with children.

'In larger homes, utility rooms are increasingly being used as boot rooms too, with a door to the outside. This prevents dirty shoes from being walked through the house. In these rooms, it’s a good idea to include seating areas where possible to allow shoes to be put on and off in comfort,' recommends William.

8. Divide and conquer

In a large, modern kitchen, why not section off space for a clever, space-saving modern utility room idea? Build a false wall, allowing you to conceal pipework and cables, enhancing the clean lines of handleless units.

Choose a smart grey for your modern utility room units, providing contrast to an all-white kitchen and alluding to a much more practical space.

9. Make a modern utility wall

No space for a modern utility room ideas? Think outside the box for your utility room storage and opt for hanging rail and baskets, keeping essentials safe by the back door. Hooks are a modern utility room’s best friend – you could even hang up your iron and ironing board, freeing up floor and cupboard space.

Keep the look utilitarian, choosing matt black hooks and rails, while a chalkboard helps the family keep on top of any chores.

10. Swap cupboards for open shelves

Open shelves offer so much storage and allow you to see essentials at a glance but you will need to stay on top of the clutter, even in small utility rooms. They will also allow you to create pockets of interest, through colourful laundry must-haves.

Add contrast to an all-white modern utility room with walnut worktop – you can even use to make a ‘bookend’, concealing the side of your washing machine for a more modern line.

11. Bring in pattern

Windows and floors are perfect for injecting your own style into a utility room design. Look for a patterned roller or Roman blind, which can frame the view through the window.

Underfoot, patterned ceramic utility room floor tiles are a great choice for modern utility rooms as they can make a small floor look bigger. Plus, if you’ve fallen for an expensive tile, but can’t justify using in a larger room, you might find you can afford the square meterage needed for your utility room instead.

If choosing a painted finish, make sure any paint used is wipeable, with easy-to-grab handles.

12. Go for modern maximalism

Give white units your own maximalist style for suited to modern utility room ideas by combining patterns on your walls (it’s a great way of using end-of-line wallpaper rolls or discontinued tiles). Don’t be afraid of choosing busy designs – the white base units will help balance the look, but this look is all ‘more is more’.

Try fitting a wall shelf high up, with smart brass brackets echoing your choice of brassware and unit handles.

13. Embrace your dark side

In modern country utility room ideas, try a dark grey or almost black shade for your base units – teamed with black composite stone worktop, the look will feel very smart. Add peg rail underneath a wall shelf, providing space to display essentials (it’s a great way to boost texture in the space too).

Try a neat leafy wallpaper on one wall, echoing the choice of black units by painting internal doors and the window frame to match for a smart utility room design.

14. Combine trad features with modern style

A traditional clothes airer pulley looks great contrasted against modern utility room ideas like metro brick tiles and makes a great money-saving alternative to using the tumble dryer. If you have wall space to spare then a wall mounted drying rack, £108, Amazon, is a neat alternative.

A fisherman’s lamp in chrome makes a feature of the ceiling, while light, bright utility room shelving makes a great spot for houseplants to receive a little boost, while adding a touch of greenery.

Make a feature of your back door, painting a dark grey – it will withstand those knocks and scrapes better than white, while giving the room definition.

15. Keep it sleek

Handleless units instantly lend modern style to a kitchen, so why not use the same trick in your utility room, with under-sink units and a tall larder-style cupboard to house those taller essentials, like the ironing board and vacuum cleaner. Minimalist design works well in narrow utility rooms.

White composite worktop and walls lead the eye upwards to a simple shelf, lined with baskets and cleaning products. A tap with a pull-out hose is a great choice for a utility room – those muddy boots will be a breeze to clean.

16. Choose contrasting fixings

Monochrome is a great look for modern utility room ideas – and it can be in the smallest of touches. Try a mono mixer in black, while swapping white grout for a dark grey, giving metro tiles a very different feel.

When choosing a sink for your utility room, an undercounter stainless steel design makes a practical choice – if you have space, then go for a double, or sink-and-a half.

FAQs

How do you make a utility room feel modern?

it needs to be the most boring,’ says Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr. ‘There are plenty of ways to bring a modern twist to the space for added personality. Think painted cabinets, open shelving to showcase decorative items, to clever but impressive design elements that give an instant wow factor.’

Sleek finishes, handleless doors and a neutral colour palette will provide a blank canvas, ready for you to add those finishing modern touches, such as lighting, wall treatments and flooring.

What are the latest utility room trends?

‘Often utility rooms are the smallest, meaning creativity is key,’ says Al from Olive & Barr. ‘We’re seeing a rise in demand for stacked washer dryers, pull-down drying racks, broom cupboards with charging points.'

'Additionally, modern utility room ideas can often be a place for pet essentials, whether that be dog bowls, leads and accessories or an area for our furry friends to take their afternoon naps. The pets’ needs are therefore often a consideration when planning the utility, with built-in dog beds or pull-out lower drawers to host dog bowls often creeping to the top of wish lists.’

Bootility rooms are also trending: ‘These ‘have dedicated areas for wellies, coats, bikes and features such as a large Belfast or butler sink for rinsing boots when early morning dog walks and family afternoons become a muddy affair,’ says Jo from Fisher & Paykel.

Drying clothes during the winter months, or if you don't have access to any outside space throughout the year, poses problems for many homes across the country. While those of us with utility rooms can utilise this space to dry our wet clothes, if your home doesn't include this dedicated space, the alternative is to use costly tumble dryers, or use drying racks set up around your home.

A budget-friendly substitute to the tumble dryer, is the best heated clothes airers, which will certainly speed up drying time and save on energy, but if you're really looking to keep costs as low as possible, then the humble drying rack is your answer. 

Drying rack ideas for all spaces

A common problem for many households is a lack of laundry drying space. As we can't rely on the great British climate to make use of any outside space – with our unpredictable weather, the likelihood is that you'll need to do much of your laundry drying inside. That's where savvy drying rack ideas come in handy, to dry clothes fast.

Of course with many of us living in compact spaces or in house shares, or indeed having to launder for a brood of kids, a lack of drying space can easily become a regular domestic irritation. Before long you may well find yourself with more articles of clothing floating around than the local laundrette, with socks on radiators, sheets hanging from doors and towels lingering on the banisters. A home looking like a laundrette is never a great look when unexpected visitors drop in.

To solve the dilemma we've found some fabulous drying rack ideas for happily hanging laundry indoors.

1. Swap a rack for a rail

While a drying rack typically offers more space to dry clothes, it can sometimes mean your clothes end up with creases and drying marks on them. So to avoid these, hang items like shirts and dresses onto hangers and hang from a slim rail in your kitchen or utility space.

Not only will they then dry without big creases, it means they are ready and on hand to iron and you won't be scrambling around to find hangers mid-iron. A hanging rail could also save you space and will ensure a successful utility room design.

2. Work a hanging rail into your utility space

Rather than having to move your wet laundry from your utility room to another area of the house, work in a hanging rail above worktops to hang your clothes to dry them. One of the top utility room design mistakes is not leaving room to sort your laundry, but a hanging rail will allow you to hang delicates straight from the washing machine. 

3. Wall mount a laundry ladder

Smart wall-mounted wooden drying racks are ideal for laundry rooms and bathrooms. A great space saver, simple laundry ladders also look stylish and utilitarian, plus fold flat when not in use to take up minimal space. 

'Incorporate a drying rack into your utility space so you’ve somewhere to air clothes when the weather’s bad,’ says storage guru Vicky Silverthorn of youneedavicky.com.

‘Slatted shelves are also handy for storing freshly-laundered linens as slats allow air to circulate so washing won’t get damp.’

4. Extend to maximise drying potential

Choose a wall-mounted drying rack to utilise vertical storage. Go one further by choosing an extendable drying rack design that can be pulled out to offer all the drying capability a full loaded washing machine needs. Utilise every nook and cranny to make your utility as efficient as possible. Use a recessed wall to make even better use of otherwise unusable space.

5. Collapse and store out of sight

A collapsable drying rack is ideal for storing out of sight and this Folding clothes horse, £45, Garden Trading is ideal for smaller homes. There are two height options so it can adjust to fit any living space, and can be used both inside and out.

You could even try throwing a fitted sheet over the rack to help speed up the drying time, as it's a hack that's deemed popular on TikTok.

Once your clothes are dry you simply fold it down to a compact concertina shape then store it out of view under a bed, in a cupboard or in a utility room. 

6. Save space with a suspended clothes airer

It's not new or revolutionary, but the Sheila Maid clothes airer, £88, Amazon is a style that's been popular in Britain for well over 100 years. A great place for it is on the ceiling above your staircase – high up and out of the way. The space-saving solution is simply lowered down using a pulley rope system, making it easy to retract out of the way when not in use – ideal for small kitchens or utility rooms.

7. Look for hotspots

Speed up the dying process by seeking out the hottest point within your kitchen or utility room, and placing your airer there in order to make use of the warmth. If your home is lucky enough to use AGA make the permanent heat serve as a hot air dryer for your laundry. Simply hang  a traditional clothes airer above the stove to benefit from the heat below.

Of course don't forget to take the washing down before you start cooking tea, because the smells will be absorbed into the freshly laundered washing!

8. Fill ceiling space above work surfaces

Make your drying rack work within the existing layout of a room. Suspending a rack above a work surface without higher level cupboards provides the perfect place to rest a laundry basket or pile of items ready to hang. On a practical level this means you're not bending down more often that necessary when hanging the washing out. It also means you are making the most of the space, by utilising the unused ceiling above.

9. Utilise the smallest of spaces

No matter how attractive your hanging solution (and in the case above it's pretty good!), no one wants laundry to overtake the house – even in a dedicated utility room. 

Choose a triangular shaped drying rack to tuck perfectly into a small corner that is out of the way, so it doesn't feel too intrusive within the space. I

if you don't have a utility room this solution is ideal for use in any small living space but is great for hanging tea towels and dish clothes in a kitchen.

10. Scent and dry clothes at the same time

Make your drying rack multipurpose by hanging dried lavender, or other fragrant stems, to gently scent the washing while it dries. 

Another way of scenting your laundry is to make a home-made linen spray, by mixing a witch hazel or rubbing alcohol base, with some essential oils and even some fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme. Give your solution a shake and lightly mist over your laundry as it dries.

11. Hang a rack directly above the washing machine

Make the laundry even easier by locating your drying rack as close to your washing machine as possible. If choosing a traditional pulley drying rack, use the ceiling area directly above your appliances to make it possible to hang directly from the machine, to save having to decant the load into a laundry basket to transport it around the house to hang elsewhere.

Jazz up the utility with a splash of colour on the walls and a fun sign to add character to the space.

12. Double up with pegs

Why not add to the drying capabilities of your drying rack, by attaching a sock and underwear hanger, just like this one, £12.99, Etsy, to your drying rack? While drying racks are great for hanging larger items like jumpers, trousers or t-shirts, smaller items like underwear often slip through the gaps, so by using a peg hanger, you can ensure you don't lose anything and your items will dry quicker if they have a little more space to breath.

13. Invest in bespoke built-in solutions

If you've got a bit more budget for your laundry antics try a fitted cabinet as part of a bespoke utility room. We love the elegance of this one at Charles Yorke, with its concealed clothes airer. Neatly hidden out of sight you wouldn't even know this airing cupboard was there. Of course if you don't need to hide it, leave the doors open to aid with the drying time.

A bespoke fitted utility room won't be cheap solution, but it will ensure that doing the laundry is a smooth operation, with everything having a place.

14. Keep pegs to hand

Sounds simple enough, but keeping the pegs hanging on the drying rack will ensure they don't get moved or misplaced, plus they'll be right at hand for hanging up your laundry in minutes.

Find a stylish storage solution to attach directly to the rack to make hanging the washing out a quick and easy chore. Buckets, baskets or peg bags are all great vessels.

What is the best drying rack?

Determining what is the best drying rack will depend on the property you live in. For a small household where laundry is limited to one or two washing machine loads a week you might say a collapsable drying rack is best – so it can be folded away out of sight. 

Wall-mounted styles are great for small-space living too, but that said, are great for households of all sizes!

If you're looking for the best heated drying racks, there are lots on the market and are a great item to try and snap up in sales throughout the year.

What is the best way to dry clothes indoors?

The best way to dry clothes indoors is with a sizeable drying rack. Also known as clothes airers and clothes horses there are a number of different designs that can help to make drying clothes indoors a breeze. With a freestanding drying rack you have the added bonus to be able to move it around the houses, dictating where you can afford to have clothes out on display – if you have a dining room or spare room that's not being used, it's ideal to move to airer in there beside a radiator and close the doors so it's not on view.

Chris Michael, Managing Director of Meaco, advises, 'Drying clothes inside is gentler on fabrics than tossing and tumbling in a dryer and prevents static cling.  Before you take them out of the washing machine, use a rinse cycle to keep the amount of water left in the clothes to a minimum.' 

'Place a drying rack away from walls to prevent the moisture from being trapped, and hang items individually and with as much space in between them as possible so they will dry more quickly. Open windows to enable airflow too.'

What can I use if I don't have a drying rack?

The alternative for drying if you don't have a rack is by hanging items over radiators, bannisters and even doorframes. While this solves the problem, it's not an ideal set up. It makes the house look untidy, and can leave odd drying impressions on garments – if say it's left over a square edge. 

There are plenty of affordable drying racks on the market, to make it possible for all budgets to invest in a proper drying solution.

Who doesn’t long for a utility room to hide away all the messy bits of everyday life? Somewhere to put the laundry out of sight, somewhere for outdoor coats and shoes and anything to do with the family pet. Basically a place for all the things you don’t want on display to spoil your beautiful kitchen or hallway. There's value in a cleaner lifestyle, but we ask does a utility room add value to a house?

A utility room is an area within the home created for the primary purpose of housing larger household appliances and performing day-to-day tasks such as the laundry. Having a utility room allows you to perform chores that would otherwise cause mess and clutter in other areas of the house, primarily the kitchen, so their popularity has grown along with the rise in open-plan living.

According to Checkatrade utility rooms were among the top 10 areas of the home where people spent money last year and Google searches for ‘Boot room ideas’ were up 80%.

Do utility rooms add value to a house?

‘Maximum value is added to a house by improving the main living spaces, such as the kitchen, dining and living areas. According to data from Zoopla, we know that buyers searching for utility rooms when browsing for a property remains high and that homeowners are sacrificing their bedrooms for other purposes.’ Says Emma Cotterill, Marketing Director of Tilia Homes.

‘Adding a utility room subsequently adds value to the house, particularly if you have gone down the open-plan route which remains very popular. A utility room not only provides additional storage and keeps the noise of white goods out of the living space, it also prevents bedrooms from being overrun with laundry equipment.’

Additional square footage means more money in today’s housing market, but only if you use that extra space wisely. The key is not to overspend. Utility rooms don’t have to be large, which means a simple small utility room addition to your home could add plenty of value. Stud walls can cost anywhere between £400 - £600 to install, and could be built to section off an unused area of your kitchen to create a small utility room idea.

A utility room will tick a lot of boxes for a large number of buyers, so it’s a worthwhile investment to make. Even if you only break even on costs it's a valuable asset to the smooth running of a busy household. However, it’s hard to put a hard and fast figure on exactly what your return will be. It may be best to check with a local estate agent.

How much value does a laundry room add?

‘A lot of people like noisy appliances to be out of sight, and earshot’ says James Hummerstone-Pope, of Purplebricks. ‘A laundry or utility room can add several thousands of pounds of value in the right home.’

The property valuation experts at MoveStreets have calculated the costs of converting an existing space into a chic utility room. At time of calculation, based on the average UK house price in December 2021 of £274,712 the experts estimate a utility room conversion can add 5% value to the property – on average a grand total of £7,236.

This sum is based on the value after adding an estimated added value of £13,736 but deducting the estimated average cost of works, approximately £6,500. This value is based purely on converting a space, extending the floor plan would cost considerably more.

Why does everyone want a utility room?

‘Utility rooms went out of fashion for a long while as people knocked all their walls down in favour of open-plan family living spaces' explains Helen Parker, Creative Director of deVOL Kitchens. 'In recent years, people have started to lust after these old fashioned small rooms again. And this time round they are not just functional but beautiful.’

Helen describes the 'new' utility room as ‘An extension of your home and a place to continue your creativity and show your personal style. The world is going mad for homes, pictures of people’s houses, beautiful places to visit and one of these addictive spaces is the utility room. People love to see images on Instagram and see how people have imaginatively turned the humble job of washing and potting up plants and storing your dirty boots into a room to make their friends super jealous.'

If you have gone down the open-plan route, finding a space to add a utility room can be a great practical addition to add value to your house. It keeps the noise of appliances, such as the washing machine and dryer, out of the living space. Plus it gives you a dedicated space to hide away laundry and cleaning materials.

If possible, it’s best to have direct access to the outside so laundry can be hung on a washing line. This has the added benefit of saving energy in the home by not running the tumbler dryer.

If you are really tight on space, you could fit a utility room into a large cupboard, in a hallway for example, or utilise the space under the stairs if it’s big enough. If there is enough room height, stack the washing machine and dryer on top of each other. Installing a worktop will create a handy work station for sorting and folding clothes.

When planning a utility room ask yourself these questions:

• Is it solely for laundry or is it a kitchen offshoot?
• How much storage are you likely to need?
• What appliances will be in there?
• Do you need a large sink for washing wellies, and pets?
• How will you ventilate it?
• Is there a source of natural light?
• What flooring will work best?

Will you be adding a valuable utility room to your house?

There are few things more satisfying than creating a perfectly organised space to turn even the most mundane tasks into something delightful. Utility room design is the perfect example of this. Instead of a messy space, hiding away clutter, when done correctly it can become something rather beautiful.

When planning your utility room ideas, there are options to suit every style and size. They've become something of a home status symbol recently and are one of the trends than can bring ease and functionality to your everyday life.

'We’ve noticed a shift in the number of homeowners looking for a bespoke utility room solution,' says Alex Main, Director, The Main Company. 'Often an extension of the kitchen or living space, utility rooms provide an ideal storage space, perfect for busy families or homeowners with pets who need custom-built storage to meet their needs. Hooks, cupboards, shelving and a second sink can all be added into the design to create a truly unique space.'

Utility rooms by their very nature are home to a vast number of items - washing equipment, cleaning products, boot racks... the list is endless. So while an organised and uncluttered utility room might seem like an impossible dream, there are  easy ways to keep the space tidy and usable. A well designed utility room helps out with everyday chores, declutters kitchens and helps with hygiene.

Utility room design

Discover how to create the perfect laundry space in your room with advice from the experts.

What is a good size for a utility room?

The size of your utility room is, of course, dictated by what space you have available. Luckily, there are solutions to create laundry rooms in a vast array of shapes and sizes. 'An experienced kitchen designer will be able to incorporate a utility room or area into whatever space is available,' advises Richard Moore, Design Director, Martin Moore. 'Whether it’s combining several small rooms to create one large utility, or putting up a partition wall or sectioning off a corner of a room to create a dedicated new space.'

To work out what size of utility room design is best for your home, it's important to consider your needs. Think about what you actually are planning on using the space for, and what you need to fit in the room.

'If it’s solely for laundry purposes with minimal storage, you won’t need much space and can function perfectly fine with a room that’s approximately 1.9m long by 1.6m wide,' says Darren Watts, Design Director, Wren Kitchens. 'If you have furry friends or children, however, and would like room for additional amenities such as an indoor pet shower, along with additional storage for bits and bobs, you’d want a room which is 3 metres by 3 metres which allows for more freedom to move around.'

How do I get the most of a small utility room?

Laundry rooms can work just well regardless of size. Small utility room ideas do require you to be a little more creative with your planning, but a practical and stylish space can still be achieved. The key thing is to assess you space and find, or create solutions which make the most of what you have.

Start with the largest items that you want to include. ‘Bulky appliances such as washing machines and tumble dryers often take up a considerable amount of space,' says Tom Howley, Design Director, Tom Howley Kitchens. 'Moving them to a dedicated full-height cabinet allows you to hide them out of sight when not in use. Stacking them vertically also frees up valuable floor space and makes it easier for you to load washing.’

Storage will make all the difference, too. 'Take the time to consider not only how you will use the space but importantly, what will need to be stored,' advises Richard from Martin Moore. 'This will allow you to incorporate clever storage solutions and include only what you need within the space. A combination of deep and shallow drawers and open shelving is usually the best way maximise the space available. Plinth drawers, double-layered drawers, corner solutions and other, modern space saving mechanisms, are all possibilities worth exploring and exploiting.'

How do you organise a utility room?

How you organise your utility room design depends on what you're looking to include. Typically, you'll want to integrate a washing machine, tumble dryer, sink, clothes airer and plenty of storage.

'Organising a utility room is an easy and fun task,' says Darren from Wren Kitchens. 'Firstly, make sure your washing and drying machines are close together, so it’s easy to move from one to the other. Place your cleaning products in caddies to make your space feels and look more organised. Install adjustable shelving above your laundry units such as a drying rack so you can easily place your clean clothes to dry in a tidy area. Finally, having easy-access open shelving for décor purposes and for any items you use frequently in your utility room will make the space look and feel homely and cosy.'

'Consider including as much clever storage as possible for an organised utility room,' adds Graeme Smith, Head of Retail & Commercial Design, Life Kitchens. Tandem larder or pull-out larder is a must for an overflow of dry food items as they bring the contents of the cupboard out to you, allowing you to see what you have inside and be able to easily reach items quickly.'

Does a utility room need a window?

One thing which you may not have considered in terms of utility room design is whether or not you need to have a space with a window.

'Utility rooms don’t need a window, but it’s ideal to help with ventilation in the room if you don’t have access to a vent,' advises Darren from Wren Kitchens. 'A window also allows natural light into a room which, if your pet lives in this room, would be something that would be beneficial to them. Alternatively, without a window, you can keep your utility room door propped open to allow both ventilation and light into the space.'

'Having a window in any room is always beneficial for the natural light and fresh air, however it is not necessary in a utility room,' agrees Ann Marie Cousins, Founder, AMC Design. 'If your utility room is a smaller space, hanging a mirror on the wall will give the feeling of depth.'

How do you build a utility room?

If you’re creating a utility area off the kitchen, what are the main things to consider in terms of access? 'It sounds incredibly obvious but consider the door opening' says Rhian Williams, Senior Kitchen Designer, Harvey Jones.

'Will it impede either working space? Will it improve access and ergonomics to swap the hinge on the door to the other side? Open the door out of the room or into it? Do you need a door? Simple “easy fix” suggestions that can significantly improve how the two rooms work together.'

What are the most common design mistakes when designing a utility room?

'The biggest design crime committed with utility rooms is that they are considered last. Poor things!' exclaims Rhian from Harvey Jones. 'Typically, they are behind a closed door and are considered a necessary yet secondary “overflow” to the kitchen. It is tempting and common to mis-proportion a project’s budget and spend as little as possible on the utility room.'

'This usually translates to an inferior work surface and fewer cupboards. In a space that takes the most abuse and needs to squirrel away all the bits and bobs. My advice is to invest in a hard-wearing work surface that can handle muddy boots and paint splatters. And ensure your utility room has enough versatile storage.'

Don't compromise on storage. Give yourself as many units as possible to hold everything you need. A utility room will often store items you don't use on a day to day basis, so you can afford to have cupboards where items sit at the back until they are needed.

How much does a utility room cost to build?

As a minimum, what should you budget for a new utility room if you’re starting from scratch e.g. no plumbing/electrics/heating? 'It is always sensible to get a minimum of  three quotations for creating a new utility space,' advises Rhian from Harvey Jones. 'This is due to the endless varying factors that will impact the cost.'

'If services need to be bought into the room this could be incredibly straight forward, or costly, depending on the property. The best practice is to design the space as accurately as possible before you obtain your quotations. This will in turn enable tradespeople to provide an accurate quotation and negate any unexpected extras. They will also be better equipped to make suggestions or problem solve (where relevant) with a good understanding of your needs and requirements!'

'If you are worried about overloading the space, or budget is tight, then simply design it to be future-proof,' adds Rhian. 'Give yourself the ability to add to it as life changes and develops.'

How can you create a utility room on a budget?

If you intend to keep your utility room hidden from sight you can save money on the cabinetry. Don't go for a bespoke, more expensive design like that of your kitchen – you could try sourcing a second hand solution. Or simply go without cabinets and opt for open-plan shelving instead.

If your home doesn't have space to dedicate a whole room you could try to emulate the look with smart storage – saving money in the process. Kitchen designer Matt Baker suggests ways to make your small space feel more generous and like that of a utility room.

'Box shelving is a great way to open up a space without overwhelming the room' Matt explains. 'If the space is small covering the walls in cabinets can make a room feel cramped and full of shadows'. Considered utility room shelving ideas help to organise your laundry room supplies.

'There is an opportunity to go for tall appliance housings to stack units such as washing machines or dryers,' he suggests. 'Leaving the rest of the room clear for practical storage solutions such as double base cabinets or coat hooks'.

If, for whatever reason, you can't have a tumble dryer in your utility room, then it would be a smart idea to opt for a heated clothes airer instead. This will help your wet clothes dry faster, and some options are nice and compact to make for more storage space in your utility.

Where do I start with utility room design?

Considered the engine room of the home utility rooms, whether used as boot or laundry rooms, have become invaluable in keeping homes organised.

Before you start planning you need to decide on the main function of the room. Think what you'll be using your utility room for and work backwards. Is it going to be a laundry? Perhaps an overspill area for the kitchen or even a boot room? Each room will differ a little different in its makeup, so it's important to make the call on the purpose before you start designing.

1. Plan appropriate storage

Design a utility room layout with as much thought and consideration as you would when designing a kitchen. Plan your storage solutions around how you use the room. A laundry room will need plenty of surface space to leave washing, both clean and dirty. While a boot room will need direct access to the garden and plentiful coat and shoe storage built in. Tall cupboards are the order of the day in general utilities to store items such as mops, vacuum cleaners and ironing boards.

If you don't plan the space well you'll end up with a messy room full of items that you don't have a home for. Thoughtful planning is even more essential to make the most of a small utility room idea.

2. Plumb in a sink

Whatever purpose you decide on, do plan in a sink. Useful for hand washing, doing extra washing up after entertaining, flower arranging or simply washing muddy wellington boots – a utility sink has many functions. You'll never be sorry for having a sink put into this versatile space.

3. Consider the aesthetic

'One way to add a little more style to your utility room could be to consider colour and lighting,' advises Amber Greenman, Home Designer at Neptune. 'As it is often a smaller space, the more light the better.'

'Our Chichester cabinets in Snow for example, paired with the Somerton laundry baskets, creates a stylish and homely space for cleaning up. It also provides plenty of storage space for keeping organised.' Choose vertical storage to make the most of a narrow utility room idea.

Laundry rooms are a classic staple in a home, and often associated with more traditional homes. For this reason, country utility room ideas are the place to look for inspiration.

Utility rooms come in all shapes, sizes and styles. Even if you're considering a contemporary look, country utility room ideas can be a useful starting off point in your design.

A simple approach with good storage and quality features are key to pulling this classic utility room look. Aim to create a space which delights you. Laundry can be a tedious enough chore, so you might as well be working away in a beautiful room which also makes your life easier through useful details and practicalities.

Country utility room ideas

From the units to the blinds and accessories and everything in between, every detail counts when it comes to this timeless style.

1. Include a storage bench

Utility rooms often double as boot rooms - after all, it's not many of us that have the space or savings for both. Make the most out of the available space with narrow utility room ideas by building in a storage bench. Keep less attractive cleaning products and other essentials hidden away beneath its lid. Then you've also got a handy place to sit and put on or pull of Welly boots.

2. Lay flagstone flooring

Flagstone flooring is a country home staple. They're good-looking, hardwearing and incredibly practical. Also, they work incredibly well for utility room flooring ideas. With their uneven colouring and natural pockmarks, dirt is easily disguised, meaning you won't constantly be cleaning it.

When you do need to give it a wash, stone floors are easy and quick to get clean and bright again.

3. Add a traditional laundry maid

Indulge in a bit of a Downton Abbey moment while also space saving like a pro. Hanging clothes airers, known as Sheila's maids or laundry maids, add that rustic, vintage touch to your laundry room. Plus, unlike modern clothes airers, you won't be using up any precious floor space, making it perfect for small utility room ideas.

4. Factor in your furry friends

Is a country home even a country home without a dog? Think about your mucky pups when considering your utility room design. It's a bit of a luxury, but will make your life so much easier if you build in a dog shower. No more chasing your pooch around the garden with a house or tackling in the upstairs bath. Keep the muddy paws in one designated area and everything will run a lot more smoothly.

5. Panel the wall

Panelled walls are a must-have for country kitchens, so make sure to bring through into your utility room, too. They add texture and interest without being too busy and distracting the eye. Plus, they're easy to repaint should you wish to revamp your colour scheme.

6. Embrace the colours of nature

Keep the look understated but undeniably country with a coat of glorious forest green on the walls. The serene yet striking shade pairs beautifully with natural wooden cabinets and worktops to create a grounding country vibe. Choose classic white enamel storage caddies and fittings to keep the look clean and effortlessly coordinated.

7. Dress the decor with ticking stripes

Nothing says country-style quite like a classic ticking stripe. Use this faithful pattern to furnish your utility room to give the space an air of sophistication. Match the dominant colour of the pattern to your kitchen cabinet colour to keep the look cohesive. For on-trend navy choose brass fixtures and fittings to enhance the richness of the scheme.

8. Add stylish shutters

Shutters for dressing windows is the epitome of fine country-style. Smart wooden shutters are ideal for creating scullery chic. Keep the look understand yet smart by painting the shutters, cabinets and walls in a gradient scale of the same colour – keep the walls in the lightest shade, then choose a colour few shades darker for both the cabinets and the shutters. This painting scheme will help to add depth to the look, without having to use bold colours.

9. Decorate white goods with flower prints

Give bulky white goods a touch of country-style with the help of simple stickers. The blank canvas of white is the ideal place to add a decorative motif to soften the hardness of appliances. Team the look with floral print fabrics for under-cabinet curtains and textile accessories, to uniform the look.

10. Use open shelves for boots and shoes

Use your utility room as the place to clean and store footwear as soon as they are removed. Leave just-cleaned shoes to air or dry on a sturdy trolley before you return them to storage. A small pair of steps will helpfully double as a place to prop your foot when cleaning shoes.

11. Add flowers

Create an area where you can indulge your love of fresh flowers and arrange them beautifully.  Fit shelves above the sink for storing flower room essentials such as scissors, string, gloves and glass stem vases, and display your country-style arrangements in pretty enamel jugs nearby.

Use the colourful blooms to inspire the decor. Add interest with a bright blind in a graphic floral print to inject a vibrant touch to enhance an otherwise neutral colour scheme.

12. Fit a Belfast sink

Country utility room ideas couldn't be complete without traditional Belfast sinks – best set into a chunky wooden work surface. These deep ceramic sinks are hard-wearing and large enough to cope with any utility room cleaning task. Combine with vintage-style kitchen mixer taps for a pleasing finish.

Make this signature sink the star of the show by dressing it to perfection. A decorative textile fashioned into curtains to conceal the storage below the worktops helps to frame the sink area.

13. Hide away ironing boards in an armoire

Keep ironing boards, brooms and vacuum cleaners out of sight in a dedicated cupboard. Choose a slim, classic country armoire to make essential storage feel more sophisticated. Hang up the feather duster and dustpan and brush on characterful wall hooks independently of the freestanding furniture piece.

14. Put up plentiful shelving

Organise your washing space with painted open shelves for folded linen and detergents. Paint basic wooden shelves in a classic cream to achieve a simple country look. The colour will provide a calming backdrop for natural linens, enamel storage caddies and attractive bottled laundry products.

15. Choose classic pigeon holes for storage

Use stylish pigeon hole shelving to make storing household sundries all the more chic. The fashionable storage units come in a variety of different sizes, from countertop to larger wall-mounted designs  to suit all utility rooms. For a totally uniformed look you can even label each one to make it clear exactly what goes where.

16. Fashion a display area

One of the most pleasing qualities of having a dedicated utility space is that you can show off the finer details. With chic storage solutions such as glass Kilner jars, porcelain bottles and enamelware why hide it all away behind closed doors. Use open shelving to house beautifully decanted cleaning products and simple decorative accessories. Fit the shelving above the sink so that you can keep everything you need to hand.

Larger items such as boxes of washing powder can be stowed away in classic enamel containers or cupboards nearby.

17. Opt for a built-in utility cupboard

You don't always need a whole room in order to make use of country utility room ideas. A built-in cupboard is the perfect spot to make a miniature laundry area. Maximise the space you do have by including extending shelves so you have worksurfaces to hand when needed.

18. Conceal appliances with a curtain

Make a simple curtain to hide unattractive appliances or unorganised storage under a counter top. Sew a curtain with a narrow casing at the top and thread on to a net curtain wire or café rod. Not only will this idea instantly hide a bulky electrical appliance, it will also help to add a decorative touch through a thoughtful patterned fabric.

19. Incorporate a pet bed

Keep your pooch at their happiest by building them a new bed. After all, what is are country utility room ideas without a perky pup? A combination of built-in open shelving and drawers turns the smallest cubby hole into a utility area with space for a pet bed beneath.

20. Tile a utility splashback with glazed brick tiles

Tile the splashback above the sink in your utility space with glazed brick tiles for a classic country look. Combine with white walls, a marble worktop and a traditional-style mixer tap. A wooden shelf, fitted just above the tiles, finishes the look and provides a handy place to display decorative pieces, and beautifully packaged laundry and cleaning products.

21. Use an over-the-door rack for cleaning brushes

Make the most of vertical storage options such as over-door racks and country style hooks. These simple solutions are easy to fit and add instant extra storage in your utility room – and they make a great place to hang items such as teacloths, feather dusters and brushes, too.

When it comes to cleaning must-haves such as mops, bins or a dustpan and brush, even these practical items can add utility-chic if you opt for vintage-style accessories in cream enamel or rustic wood.

22. Build in fitted boot room storage

Design your utility space so it also works for boot room ideas. Fit wooden shelving and paint it in a subtle shade, such as understated sage green, to match the cabinetry. Alternatively, use a rustic metal rack or even wooden steps to prop up footwear by the garden door. Combine painted units with a wood-panelled splashback and stone flooring for classic boot-room style.

23.  Fit an extending wall rack to dry laundry indoors

No country utility room is complete without a wall-mounted extending rack for those days when the weather does not allow clothes to be dried outside. Position a wall rack near the washing machine and sink for ease of use. If you have space for shelving, add storage boxes above, or fit an enamel wardrobe rail in an alcove for hanging up garments.

24. Hide clutter with a café curtain

Hang a country-style café curtain beneath the length of a worktop or console table to hide kitchenware, cleaning products or appliances from view. Choose fabric in fresh colours, such as striking florals or fresh stripes, and sew a simple curtain that will add instant zing to your utility room. Hang the curtain using a tension rod that fits the width of the open shelving unit.

25. Choose neutral, country-style cabinetry

Decorate in a neutral colour scheme for a timeless look in your utility room. Choose Shaker-style cabinetry - allowing plenty of space for appliances - and hardwearing stone flooring for a look that’s pretty and practical. Use country-style enamel containers for washing powder and to sort laundry. Add a peg rail for coats above a wooden chest or sideboard for plenty of storage.

26. Show off shabby-chic storage

Make washday a pleasure with a dedicated utility area for laundry. Store and display ironing water, soaps, cleaning liquids and wooden dolly pegs in attractive bottles and practical glass kilner jars.

Introduce even a few of these ideas, and the results might just might light work of those chores that need doing. Talk about effective budget utility room ideas!

How can I make my utility room look nice?

You can make your utility room look nice by adopting a country-style approach. The humble yet hard-working utility room is often over-looked when it comes to decorating. Yes, you need to create a dedicated space that is well organised but practical doesn't have to be dull. A vintage country-style look is a great style choice as it takes the room back to its roots. A scullery was a kitchen overflow for large, busy houses so had to be spic- span efficient.

What is the difference between a scullery and a utility room?

Although the names are very different, the utility room is simply the modern equivalent of a scullery. Traditionally, sculleries were used for laundry, washing dishes and as an extra kitchen space. Since utility rooms perform the same tasks they are essentially just a rebranded scullery!

In Australia and the States, however, you're more likely to find these spaces called laundry rooms than utility rooms.

No matter the space you have to work with, laundry day is essential, which is why we've put together plenty of small utility room ideas to ensure that you have a dedicated spot for washing. From sorting and folding laundry to storing gardening supplies and cleaning products, everyone needs functional utility room ideas.

In many of our homes, any available space in your home will be best used for socialising, dining, and cooking, so dedicating room for chores won't always be top of the priority list. But even if you have a small utility room to work with, it's still possible to make it work hard and look great too.

Getting savvy with the room available is key. From pocket doors to innovative utility room storage ideas, there are many ways you can make the most of every inch of space while adding style so that it's a pleasure to spend time in.

Small utility room ideas

When looking for small utility room ideas start by thinking about appliances. Do you want your room to house a washing machine and/or a tumble drier so you can use it ostensibly as a laundry room? Or might you want to move in a spare fridge or freezer so that it functions as a utility-cum-pantry space where you can also do some food prep.

Whatever the purpose, our small utility room ideas can inspire a solution for even the tiniest of spaces.

1. Focus on flooring

Utility rooms can quickly become a space where function takes the focus, but you shouldn't scrimp on style when planning out your design. A statement floor is a fast way to add personality to a small utility room, without overwhelming the upper area of the space. This way, it won't feel cluttered.

Focusing on utility room flooring ideas is also a cost-effective style upgrade, as you have less surface area to work with. Whether you want to stick with a monochromatic look or add a burst of colour through your flooring, it's an easy way to inject character into an otherwise practical space.

2. Separate with a glass door

If you only have a small space to turn into a utility room then a glass sliding door is a great way to open it up and make the room feel bigger. This will connect it to the kitchen, meaning you might need to keep it tidy, but it will create a light and airy feel.

Wondering whether to match your utility to your kitchen? Adding a glass door is a great way to break up the space while subtly continuing the same colour scheme. It doesn't have to be matching, but using variations of the same shade will help to differentiate the utility.

3. Replace cupboards with a curtain

Small utility rooms can feel overcrowded quickly, so consider swapping out cabinet doors for a cafe curtain instead. The cafe kitchens trend has been hugely popular this year and one way to get the look is by adding a soft, vintage-appeal through curtains.

Instead of a solely practical space, it will make your utility room feel warm, homely and like an extension of the rest of your house. Plus, it's easy to DIY the curtains yourself if you're looking to save money.

4. Take on towers

When working with a small utility room, you'll need to maximise the height of the room to fit in everything you need. This goes for more than just storage - consider stacking your appliances to free up floor space while still including both a washing machine and a tumble dryer.

'One of the most effective, and easy, tips for maximising the space in a utility room is to stack the washer and dryer to utilise wall space and keep floor space for extra cupboards or utilities,' echoes Charlie Avara, Managing Director of All Done Design.

A tower format also allows you to create a seamless laundry workflow. Positioning a washing machine on top or below a tumble dryer means you can move one load straight across, and get the next load ready quickly, so household chores don't have to be such a faff.

5. Pick pocket doors

Let's face it, utility rooms can quickly become overrun with laundry, cleaning products, or even gardening supplies that you don't want to lay your eyes on. However, if you have a small kitchen and utility space that doesn't give you the option to keep it out of sight and out of mind, then a pocket door could be the solution.

'If you are limited on rooms, creating a utility cupboard rather than dedicating a whole room provides an effective housing solution for all the essentials such as washer, dryer, ironing board, and cleaning supplies,' says Charlie.

Adding a pocket door to a cupboard or small room is a great space-saving technique as it folds in on itself so that the door isn't obstructing the rest of a kitchen or hallway. This way, you can access a washing machine, sink, and storage quickly, and tuck it away again just as fast.

6. Add in baskets

Open shelving is a great way of adding character to a small utility room, but it does mean that there can be a lack of organisation which also creates visual clutter. Baskets are a convenient storage idea that add interest to a shelf but also keep small items tidy and hidden, so you can make the most out of your utility room shelving ideas.

Depending on whether your interior style is more traditional or modern, you can pick baskets that reflect your taste. Wicker baskets will match a farmhouse scheme and are hardwearing, while multi-coloured plastic crates will help you to recreate a Scandi-inspired design.

7. Go serene with green

When you think of tranquil spots around your home, a utility room is unlikely to be high on the list. However, it's important to make even the most functional areas of your home enjoyable to use. Creating a consistent flow throughout a layout with the use of colour will also make a space feel expertly designed, so you can find solace in even the most unexpected of spots.

A green utility room is also the perfect place for incorporating indoor plant ideas. Utilities are often placed towards the back of a house making them ideal for gardening prep, so consider continuing this theme with greenery that revives the small space.

8. Save space with blinds

In order to get the most out of a utility room, save spacing techniques must extend to every corner - including your windows. With utility rooms often positioned off from the kitchen on the ground floor of the home, you'll want to create some privacy so the right window coverings are key.

Daniel Hatfield, Brand Manager at Luxaflex, says 'space-saving and stylish window coverings such as roller blinds are a great solution, not just a design statement but practical too. The durable material design of Luxaflex LightLine® Roller Blinds can resist moisture making them ideal for laundry rooms where humidity is present. Just wipe clean with a damp sponge to maintain your blind perfectly.'

9. Hide away appliances in a cupboard

A space in a hallway, the end of a kitchen or even off the bathroom, can be turned into a small utility space that can be hidden behind doors. As long as there is access to plumbing, your appliances can sit just about anywhere and don't necessarily need a room of their own. An alcove is a good spot to squeeze in a washer and dryer as well as some shelving, which can be disguised behind simple sliding or folding doors.

10. Dedicate a corner to your cleaning products

Just a corner of your kitchen or bathroom could house all your cleaning products, to make them super easy to find. Stylish caddies are great for housing sprays and bleaches and opt for more pleasing wooden brushes and scrubbers so you can keep them out on display. Try to keep a small surface clear to fold laundry or scrub out stains and keep cloths and dusters hung on hooks under the work surface.

11. Save on floor space with a rail

Floorspace can come at a cost in a small utility room, so try hanging a rail above your work top to provide a dedicated spot for hanging and drying clothes. This makes the most of the area between a work surface and the ceiling, putting to use an empty zone that would otherwise be unused.

By positioning this above a washing machine, you can transition laundry straight to a drying rack, saving valuable time in your routine. Wooden hangers are better for clothes and also add a farmhouse-inspired look that will update the compact space.

'Another option is to install a small pull-out clothes dryer over the sink. These are perfect for smaller or hand-washed items and utilise space that is often wasted', says Charlie.

12. Opt for blue for a cosy utility space

Dark blue continues to be hugely popular for both kitchens and utility spaces so choosing this rich shade puts you in good company. Whatever size your utility space, dark blue works so well to create a contemporary, cosy feel and is less likely to show up marks and scuffs- great news if you have pets (or small children). Brass hardware always looks amazing paired with a dark, inkey blue, so be sure to add a touch of luxe by fitting brass handles to your cupboard doors, even if you just spray your current chrome or wooden ones!

13. Keep it all white

An all white scheme will undeniably make a small space seem roomier, so if dark, dramatic and cosy isn't for you, white is a great option for walls, cupboards and tiles. While a matching washer and dryer looks super smart, it's not always practical (or cost effective) so think about choosing integrated appliances for a super sleek look. Knowing what utility room design mistakes to avoid, is key to getting the most out of your laundry space.

14. Keep a compact space clutter-free

The key to a smart utility room is banishing all product packaging from view. To do this, assemble a collection of practical enamelware tins with lids, Kilner-style bottles, jam jars and any other pretty containers you fancy. Use them to store soap powder or liquid, laundry softener, descaling and dishwasher tablets. Pack away shoe polish and dusters, dishcloths and scourers and see what a difference it makes to your room.

Remember never to decant corrosive or harmful chemical products; always store these in their original bottles. Hide them at the back.

15. Streamline a small utility space

For a super-streamlined look, go for fitted cupboards to hide all the clutter. Here full-height, floor and wall units create a bank of storage on a single wall that matches the worktop. This room, with easy access to the garden, hides everything from view so that it always looks clean, tidy and organised. The Low-sheen grey cupboards help to inject a touch fo style to the streamlined solution.

16. Create a sense of space with open shelving

A butler sink unit with a marble worktop is a practical choice for a utility room. Decant ironing and laundry products into Kilner-style jars, bottles and enamel tins and store on smart open shelving. Here dusters and mops are kept orderly on wall-hung clips, while the towel-on-a-roller is always find-able. The area behind the sink is easy to keep dry thanks to a splashback of metro tiles.

17. Choose practical furniture

Keep furniture choices to a minimum in a small utility room, to prevent the presence from feeling overwhelming. This tall yet slim cabinet does the job of providing a tidy storage solution for all the basic necessities. from an ironing board to a broom, yet it's slim enough not to take up too much floorspace.

Use wall-mounted hooks to provide any additional storage, to keep things elevated off the floor – to create a sense of more space.

FAQs

How do I get the most of a small utility room?

Plan your cupboards around your appliances: do you want to be able to see your appliances or do you prefer to hide them behind doors for a more streamlined feel? Balance usability and ease of access with aesthetics and decide what will work best for you. What about storage cupboards: freestanding or fitted; shelves or drawers? Work out what you need to store first and then decide which form of storage works best and what you have space for.

Plan wall storage, too. Cupboards will keep things hidden away and tidy; open shelves are easily accessible and can look lovely if you have lots of nice enamelware tins and baskets to put on show. Open shelves give you that classic utility-room feel.

If doing laundry in your utility room, there will be additional things to plan for. Look for floor-standing collapsible clothes airers or versions that you can fit on a wall to free up floor space. If you have a period home with a high ceiling, consider old-fashioned ceiling-hung airers with pulleys so that you can pull that wash load up and out of the way. You can also buy heated airers that you plug in and heated wall-hung towel rails are another option.

How do you organise a tiny utility room?

One simple way to keep a small utility room looking organised, streamlined and efficient is to avoid placing bottles and packets of product directly on shelves. Instead, look for labelled enamelware tins, fabric bags, pretty cardboard or plastic boxes and pull-out basket drawers and store all your bits and pieces in those before sliding them onto shelves, stashing in cupboards or dropping into drawers.

Don't underestimate the usefulness of hooks. Peg rails are invaluable for hanging up storage bags. For that boot-room feel, add stands for coats plus, boot racks and shoe stores.

'Incorporate a drying rack so your've got somewhere to air clothes when the weather's bad,' says Vicky. 'Try a space-saving retractable airer hung on the wall or ceiling. Slatted shelves are handy too for storing freshly-laundered towels and linens as slats allow air to circulate.'

What is the smallest size for a utility room?

How small is too small for a utility room? We ask the experts what sort of space is needed to incorporate a utility room comfortably.

'I have designed working utility spaces from as little as 0.36sqm by maximising the ceiling height - compact yet practical' explains Rhian Williams, Harvey Jones Senior Kitchen Designer. 'It really does depend on what you are hoping to accommodate within the area, what the objective of the space is and what space you actually have to work with, of course. An average-sized 'utility room' typically varies from 2.5-5sqm in most properties.'

A top tip for accommodating a utility area within a compact space, Rhian suggests; 'Focus on what the area needs to achieve. What are your key reasons for converting the space? Additional storage for awkward household items such as the vacuum cleaner, steamer, ironing board, etc.? Or is it to accommodate a washing machine or tumble dryer to maximize the kitchen space?'

'Being space savvy is key, so measure every item on the 'utility space shortlist' for precise planning. Utilising any available height that you have is also really important as it will allow you to stack your appliances, so think m3 rather than m2. Clever pull-out storage solutions will help you make the most of awkward spaces. Also, if space is tight, consider a good quality combination washer-dryer to give you optimal laundry functionality.'

No matter how small, a utility room is a great addition to your home. How are you planning to make the most of yours?

Marie Kondo has revealed her golden rule for decluttering and organising food in a pantry or food cupboard, and it all hinges around the expiration dates.

If you're lucky enough to be able to brainstorm pantry ideas in your kitchen, the last thing you want is the space to turn into another messy room. Even if you only have limited kitchen storage ideas to work with, according to Marie Kondo the key to keeping the space tidy is always being able to see the expiration dates.

Marie Kondo is a Japanese-born organising expert who sprung to fame in 2010 as the author  The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, available on Amazon. The best-selling book proved so popular that it lead to two Netflix original shows including Tidying Up with Marie Kondo. Over the last decade, the professional organiser has helped homes across the world tidy up with the KonMari method.

Speaking exclusively to Ideal Home to promote the latest edition of her new book Joy at Work Marie Kondo said her top tip for decluttering and organising a pantry is to start by checking the expiration dates.

'First and foremost, check the expiration dates. Discard anything that has passed its expiration,' she explains. But the focus on the expiration dates doesn't stop there, she explains that to maintain a tidy cupboard they need to also remain visible on the shelf.

'Store the items so it’s easy to check the dates periodically and group the food items by similarity –pastas in one section, flours and grains in another,' she recommends. 'Be sure to store each item vertically so you can see them all in one glance.'

Lakeland has a great range of cupboard storage solutions, including a staggered shelf organiser to make it easier to organise your cupboards so you can easily see the dates.

If you have any items that are fast approaching their expiration date,  Marie Kondo suggests having a 'borderline stock clearance campaign' on her website KonMari. This simply means trying to create a meal using any of the ingredients that are about to expire.

Part of the KonMari method is about decluttering mindfully. While the KonMari method teaches that you shouldn't keep hold of times that no longer serve you - and that out of date olive oil really isn't serving you - you shouldn't just get rid of an item for the sake of clearing space.

If a bag of pasta is due to go out of date in one day, it will serve you and the planet better to turn it into a delicious dinner that evening, rather than throwing it straight out when organising kitchen cabinets.

All that is left is to get tidying, and maybe brainstorm a few dinner ideas.

They're the must-have room for any busy family home, and as utility rooms rise up the wish-list for many homeowners, it's a space you'll want to get working straight away. This means avoiding common utility room design mistakes to create the ideal laundry set up.

While you might be looking for utility room ideas on how to style up your shelves, or make a small space work harder, it's important to know the things to avoid too, when planning your practical laundry room.

We've put together our own tips, plus asked the experts to shed some light on the utility room design mistakes we should all avoid...

Utility room design mistakes to avoid

1. Getting the location of your utility room wrong

Whether you have a dedicated room for your utility essentials, or just a tucked away cupboard or bathroom corner, it's all about getting it's position right.

Grame Smith, Head of Retail and Commercial Design at Life Kitchens says, 'A common mistake is not carefully considering what function you are going to use the space for and location of it in the home. A utility room could be located towards the centre of the house, not too far from the bedrooms as most of your washing will come from these.'

'With the acoustics of appliances running in mind, you may alternatively wish to locate it away from a room where you entertain and socialise.'

2. Opting for bad lighting

As one of the most practical rooms in your home, this isn't the place for mood lighting. During the planning process be sure to consider your lighting options, as poor lighting can lead to clothing stains not being spotted and care labels not being read properly.

Under cabinet or shelf lighting is great if the space is on the smaller side and there isn't a huge space for spot lights on the ceiling. Opting for wall lights can be aesthetically pleasing, but think about supporting these with bright ceiling lights for dark days in the winter when natural light levels are at their lowest.

3. Forgetting to measure your appliances

Before building your utility space, think about exactly what will be going in to it and where. 'One common mistake that so many people make is not measuring up their appliances before designing their laundry room', says Vicky Silverthorn, Professional Organiser at You Need a Vicky.

'You need to think about what you want to store, be it your ironing board, mop, hoover or laundry baskets and make sure you measure their dimensions before you design your space. It's no good going for an off the peg design and then expect your items to fit, they won't, and you'll be gutted if your smart utility space is ruined by a washing machine that doesn't fit in it's designated spot.'

4. Not utilising the space you have

Whilst most utility rooms are often on the small side, that doesn't mean you can't max out their potential to give you all the drying space you need for your laundry. If floor space is lacking, think about rigging up a hanging clothes airer from the ceiling on a simple pulley system. This way the floor is left clear of clutter but your clothes can still be drying inside on wet days.

Another tip is to stack your washing and dryer, rather than placing them side by side. Again this saves on floor space and make the most of the height of the room rather than the width. a great idea to free up space in a narrow utility room idea to maximising compact space.

Where you can, always opt for a deep sink so you can soak more in one go. You can always use the space below it to keep cleaning products too.

5. Getting the finishes wrong

It's worth planning out all the details of your utility room, even down the colours and finishes too.

Alex Main, Director at The Main Company advises, "When planning your utility room design, choose cabinets mainly in a painted finish as this gives the flexibility of a complete makeover if you decide to dramatically change your colour scheme later down the line. It also means even if you want a quick, subtle change, it's much easier to do'

6. Neglecting a practical layout

When it comes to the layout of your utility space, its so important to get this right. There's no point having a washing machine tucked in a corner where you can't easily get the washing out, or cupboards that open the wrong way for you to see whats inside.

You also need to think about where electrical sockets are, or can be put, plus where your waste pipe is plumbed in too. And of course you'll want it all to look nice and neat too.

'Layout is crucial to get right. Plan carefully so that it's absolutely perfect for you and your lifestyle- it needs to be both functional and somewhere that you love walking into,' says Alex.

7. Not making use of open shelving

Open shelving is a great way to utilise wall space in a utility room. As well as make a display of your prettier cleaning paraphernalia.

Try decanting washing tablets into glass jars or keeping washing powder in galvanised storage pots. Cleaning products such as sprays could be hidden away inside cupboards but room sprays and linen water look pretty displayed on shelves, so keep these out and at hand.

This simple storage solution is perfect as a budget utility room idea to create an affordably beautiful laundry space.

8. Forgetting to leave space to sort the laundry

For a successful utility room, it's important to have surface space to sort the laundry before and after washing. Worktop space also gives you a place to fold clean clothes or even apply stain remover before popping them in the wash, so try and leave worktops clear of clutter.

If space is tight, look to get a sink cover board which turns your basin and draining board into a flat surface. This can be easily removed when you need to use the tap.

9. Leaving hard floors bare

Utility rooms can often feel chilly due to the lack of soft furnishings. By adding in a rug, not only will it keep your feet warm, it will also help with stopping any drafts that might come up through the floorboards. Plus it will help with absorbing sound, making it less noisy.

It will also be kinder on your knees when you are bending down to fill and empty the washing machine. Use an anti-slip mat underneath to ensure the rug stays in place. Try choosing a design with some pattern to help elevate the room.

What are the most common utility room design mistakes for laying out?

We asked William Durrant, owner of Herringbone Kitchens to give us the inside scoop on where mistakes are often made.

1. 'Forgetting space for folding clothes. This is one that is often overlooked but one we find so important in our design. Making sure you have a workspace for folding clothes shouldn't be forgotten, so they don't have to put on the floor before folding, and it keeps them all in one place.'
2. ' No space or area for hanging clothes to dry. Not everyone has a dryer and not everything can go in a dryer even if you do. So if you don't have space in your utility room for a clothes horse on the floor, try finding hanging space instead. Again it keeps the room tidy, functional and not spilling out into other rooms.'
3. 'Not considering space for dirty hampers. Again this is something that is often overlooked, however open cabinets are incredibly useful for this'

Avoiding these common utility room design mistakes will ensure your laundry room is a dream to be in.

At the top of many of our dream home wishlists is somewhere to tackle washing and hide away laundry. With narrow utility room ideas you can create this space no matter how petite an area you have to spare.

There are all manner and style of utility room ideas available depending on the shape of your space and what your needs might be. However, there are several things which most laundry rooms try and incorporate. After all, 'when designing a utility room we look to house the items that you’d rather not see in the rest of the house!,' points out Richard Atkins, Director, DesignSpace London.

Usually a utility room would make sure to include a washing machine and tumble dryer, plus storage for cleaning equipment. But there's no end to what you could look to integrate. 'One of the benefits of a bespoke utility room is that it can be completely customised to suit your every need,' says Alex Main, Director, The Main Company. 'Floor-to-ceiling cupboards provide helpful storage space, ideal for busy family households whereas a second sink or doggy bath with shower handset is perfect for those with pets to avoid trampling mud through the home. Hooks, hardware and bespoke shelving can also be added to create a completely unique and practical space that can accommodate all of your belongings.'

Narrow utility room ideas

Utility rooms are often small in size, yet we demand big things from the space. If all that's available to build your utility room is a narrow area of kitchen or cramped cupboard, fear not because with the right narrow utility room ideas it can still be highly functional and stylish.

So how do you make a challenging layout work harder? The key to unlocking the potential of a compact, corridor-style space is thoughtful planning. We speak to the experts in kitchen and utility room design to uncover the solutions for maximising the functionality of a limited space.

From stacked shelving solutions, providing adequate space for washing machines and tumble dryers, to modular shelving to elevate all your cleaning products and kit we reveal the design tricks to turn even the most awkward of layouts into a highly functional space for all your utility needs.

1. Incorporate fold away surfaces

When space is at a premium, every inch needs to be taken into consideration. 'The purpose of a utility room is for it to be functional,' points out Ann Marie Cousins, Founder, AMC Design. 'From the washing up to the ironing to laundry, it is essential for the room to be organised and clutter-free in order for it to work properly. Make the most of any space you have available for storage as this will make the world of difference for day-to-day life.'

One way of achieving this is by finding creative solutions to save space in your utility room design. Build in a work surface which folds up when not in use. When tucked away you'll have extra space to get on with your jobs as normal, but when you need extra surfaces, to polish silver, or fold clothes, the table can be taken out. A little ironing board could also be attached to the wall so you can get on with the smaller pieces from your laundry pile without having to set up the full board.

2. Invest in bespoke storage

Using your space poorly will cost you valuable storage space so planning is essential. Work out what you need to store and where and you can get bespoke shelving to neatly fit everything you need without wasting an iota of space.

'It’s always good to have a mixture of concealed cabinets and open utility room shelving ideas designed to simplify everyday tasks,' adds Tom Howley, Design Director, Tom Howley Kitchens. 'If the space is more laundry-focused, you can use floating shelving to place detergents out of reach, store spare towels, and keep household essentials streamlined and organised in baskets or jars. Whilst you should let walls share the workload, you should still consider work surface space and low fitted cabinets to maximise storage capacity.’

3. Utilise the broken plan layout

'The rise in utility rooms has developed with the popularity of open-plan kitchen/living spaces,' notes Melissa Klink, Creative Director, Harvey Jones. 'People do not want their washing taking up room in the kitchen, particularly if the space is used for entertaining.'

That said, with space at a premium, it can be difficult to have a fully separate area even for narrow utility room ideas. Meet in the middle by using the on-trend broken-plan layout style. Delineate the utility room space with a glass sliding door. This separates it from the kitchen, but can be left open when you're in and out, or when you need more space to tackle the laundry.

A cleverly positioned mirror facing into the kitchen will also trick the eye into not seeing the utility room and its necessities.

4. Upgrade built in cupboards

Built in cupboards are perfect pre-existing narrow utility room ideas. Alternatively, add a door to an ample nook for somewhere to hide away your appliances.

The cupboard doors will blend in with the rest of the cabinetry in your room, so won't stand out and seem to take up space. To prevent the utility from getting in the way with the door open, add bi-folds.

5. Look up

Your ceiling and the bottoms of shelving units have more to offer than meets the eye. Use your ceiling to hand a Sheila's Maid, so you don't have to struggle with wide clothes airers. There are also plenty of fold up drying rack ideas which you can attach higher up on your walls. A handy fold away stool will keep these accessible for even the more vertically challenged of us.

Underneath shelves add in poles to hang freshly ironed shirts, or as spillover space for hanging damp items.

6. Remove the door

If you're using narrow utility room ideas off a kitchen, the door may be a problem. When the door it opens into the kitchen you're liable to getting in the way of this high-traffic area, or accidentally whacking your husband as you open it from within. If it opens into the utility space yo'll have an awkward time trying to manoeuvre your way in and out of the space.

Save yourself from all those stresses by simply removing the door altogether. You will have to keep the utility space neat and clutter-free to stop it from ruining the look of your kitchen, but invest in useful storage and this shouldn't be a problem.

Another benefit of this doorless approach is that you can double up the laundry room as a prep kitchen for when your kitchen is at capacity.

7. Stack appliances to save space

'Narrow utility areas are a perfect solution for those wanting to hide away their washing machine and dryer' explains Sinead Trainor, Kitchen Category Manager, LochAnna Kitchens. 'We recommend storing washing machines and dryers on top of one another to make the most of your available space – bespoke cabinetry can be created to permit this.' Stacking one on top of the other helps to compact the presence of bulky appliances. Hiding them behind closed doors helps to minimise the impact further.

Clever pull-out storage solutions will help you make the most of narrow spaces, such as this retractable shelf.

8. Maximise vertical storage

Use every inch of wall space available, because no matter how narrow the space a utility still requires a mass of  laundry lotions and cleaning accessories. Lining the walls with multifunctional shelves maximises the storage potential by elevating items off work surfaces. A clear work surface not only helps to make the space feel less cluttered, it also makes doing chores a breeze.

Choose shelving that offers a smart solution. 'A simple wall mounted storage unit can solve all your problems' says a spokesperson for String Furniture. 'Placed above the sink or by the washing machine, a modular shelving system maximises your space'. With the option of both open and closed cabinets, hooks and shelving units of various heights, the possibilities are endless.

9. Add depth with patterned flooring

Use utility room flooring ideas to add interest to the small space. A patterned floor in a narrow room can help to create a sense of space, by giving it more of a presence. In doing so you're creating the illusion of there being more floor to focus on, thus making it feel bigger. This idea works best in a narrow room too because in larger rooms a heavily patterned floor may feel overwhelming, which can result in making it feel smaller in fact.

The joy of pattern is also that it's very forgiving as a floor choice in a busy room, such as the utility. The pattern helps to accommodate the laundry baskets and other items frequently cluttering the floor – a pretty pattern helps to act as a decoy.

10. Opt for a narrow closet for utility storage

'Not everyone has the space for a separate utility room which is why it’s so important to make the most of the space you have available' says Sinead from LochAnna. 'Narrow closets or larders are a great option for those looking for a dedicated space to store their utility items such as vacuum cleaners, ironing boards and cleaning products!'

'Our 600mm lifestyle larders are available in different design layouts and sizes to accommodate different households based on their needs.'

11. Line the walls with smart storage

'Hiding away utility items in cupboards is a great way to make the space feel less overwhelming and less cluttered' explains LochAnna's Sinead. Utility rooms tend to be small, but that doesn't mean they can't be streamlined and efficient. This tiny space is filled with practical features that make use of every inch.

Fitted units have been added wherever possible for maximum storage capacity. A traditional pulley-powered airer keeps washing out of the way up high while, below, a wall-hung tabletop can be pressed into service when needed.

12. Incorporate a utility room into a narrow kitchen

Dedicated a narrow section of the kitchen to create a slim utility area. Housing all your appliances in the space will free the main kitchen from any mess when it comes to chores on laundry day. Use the partition wall to house the appliances, because you'll require the cold water supply to have them plumbed in – using the pipework that is already there will save you having to have more work done. Here full-height, floor and wall units create a bank of storage on a single wall that matches the kitchen worktop.

A narrow space that adjoins an outside space is ideal for taking the laundry directly out to hang on the line, meaning you don't need to walk through a busy kitchen area.

13. Lighten with neutral tones

A winning idea for making a small or narrow space feel bigger is choosing a neutral colour palette. 'One way to add a little more style to your utility room could be to consider colour,' advises Amber Greenman, Home Designer at Neptune. 'As it is often a smaller space, the more light the better. Our Chichester cabinets in Snow for example. Paired with the Somerton laundry baskets, it creates a stylish and homely space for cleaning up, and also provides plenty of storage space for keeping organised.'

As well as adding more light, whether it be natural or otherwise, you can enhance the small space is by choosing cabinets in a light colour which bounce light around to make the room feel more airy – a great small utility room idea.

14. Illuminate a path

Create a central point of focus in a narrow space using lighting. Shine a light path into the centre of the narrow space with statement overhead lights, such as they stylish pendants. The oversized pendants offer an ideal solution to brighting the narrow space.

Keeping the colour palette neutral helps in maintaining a sense of space, creating a brighter and therefore less cramped feel.

15. Utilise wall space

Use every inch of wall space available in a narrow utility room, because this room requires a lot of 'stuff'. Due to the amount of cleaning products and kit in a laundry-cum-utility room it pays to make storage solutions work harder.

Lining the walls with shelves to the ceiling allows for maximum storage potential. It keeps everything off the countertop too, meaning a clearer work space when you need to get chores done.

How do you make the most of a narrow utility room?

'Even the smallest of spaces, can be transformed to accommodate well-equipped utility rooms,' says Richard Moore, Design Director, Martin Moore. 'Custom designing is key. Take the time to consider not only how you will use the space but importantly, what will need to be stored. This will allow you to incorporate clever storage solutions and include only what you need within the space.'

'A combination of deep and shallow drawers and open shelving is usually the best way maximise the space available. Plinth drawers, double-layered drawers, corner solutions and other, modern space saving mechanisms, are all possibilities worth exploring and exploiting.'

‘Bulky appliances such as washing machines and tumble dryers often take up a considerable amount of space in the kitchen,' adds Tom Howley. 'Moving them to a dedicated full-height cabinet allows you to hide them out of sight when not in use. Stacking them vertically also frees up valuable floor space and makes it easier for you to load washing.'

Appearance is key, too. 'Box shelving is a great way to open up a wall and still create storage versus the covering walls in cabinets and making a smaller room feel cramped and full of shadows,' advises Melissa from Harvey Jones. 'They can also then be painted to match the cabinets or highlight a favourite colour from within the room.'

'Keep your room clutter free, as small utility rooms with extra items in will make your space look cramped,' agrees Darren Watts, Design Director, Wren Kitchens. 'Utilise the storage space you have for your cleaning products and outdoor wear so that your room always has a fresh feel to it.'

What's the minimum size for a utility room

'A small utility room is great, as they don’t take up much room whilst being one of the most functional and practical rooms in the home,' points out Darren from Wren. 'The narrowest a utility room can be is around 1.5 metres. You need to consider that your drawers, cupboards and washing machine doors need to open fully, whilst being able to move around the room at the same time.'

'An average-sized 'utility room' typically varies from 2.5-5sqm in most properties,' agrees Rhian Williams, Senior Kitchen Designer, Harvey Jones.

'Being space savvy is key, so measure every item on the 'utility space shortlist' for precise planning' Rhian advises. 'Utilising any available height that you have is also really important, as it will allow you to stack your appliances.' This means you think of space as more than square footage on a  floor plan, you're also incorporating vertical space into measurements too.

A utility room is high on the list of dream-home requirements, so if you're lucky enough to have one then it's important to get the design just right. You want it to be practical at its core, but also stylish - it's an extension of your main living space after all. 

An easy way to achieve instant ambience is through utility room lighting ideas. From task lighting to the ever-useful overhead pendants, lighting choices will determine how a room looks and feels. 

As an addition to a kitchen area, it's common to have a small utility room, which leads many to believe that simple ceiling lights will suffice. As Peter Legg, lead designer at där lighting explains, a bright 'top light' just won't cut it. Instead, he says ‘the utility area is a space where task lighting is vital. If your room doesn’t have access to natural light, consider installing lighting with low-energy bulbs (LEDs). Choose a crisp, cool white lamp, for better visibility.' 

No matter which utility room idea you opt for, whether contemporary or traditional, there are lighting options to suit any scheme. Or better yet, mix and match more than one.

Utility room lighting ideas

Because utility rooms are often hidden away behind a closed door, the hard-working space can be overlooked when it comes to planning, especially finer details such as lighting. However, neglecting to think about lighting is one of the biggest utility room design mistakes you can make.

Often considered a necessary yet secondary overflow space off the kitchen that requires less project planning and budgeting, it's easy to think a utility room doesn't need much designing, but the industry experts we spoke to were quick to shine a light on the importance of a well-lit laundry space.

'Laundry rooms are often smaller spaces and have a specific function. Brightness is key, so flush lighting is ideal for providing plenty of light' explains Niki Wright, founder of Lights and Lamps. 

Read on to discover our top tips for nailing utility room lighting ideas. 

1. Mix old with new

Lighting offers an opportunity to try something new - whether that's a different metal or an opposing design aesthetic that breathes new life into your utility room.

If you have opted for a country utility room idea, consider including a contemporary touch through a stainless steel lighting fixture or an exposed bulb. Not only will this offer ample lighting for a workspace but it also creates an eye-catching look.   

A pendant also works well in small utility rooms with less wall space to work with. As Charlie Avara, managing director of All Done Design says, 'What a smaller utility room lacks in space, it doesn’t need to lack in functionality or style. There are many clever ways to create a practical, and aesthetically pleasing room.'

2. Bring in brass

Utility room lighting is handy for more than just practical purposes - it can provide a chance to add metallic tones that will instantly enhance the overall look of a space.

Brass is an on-trend choice that wears well in high-traffic areas - ideal for a utility room where function has to take the forefront. For a complete design that makes your laundry room look just as curated as the rest of your home, consider matching the metal of your lighting to a tap or the handles on your utility room storage ideas. 

3. Try out sconces

Sconces are having a moment in every room throughout a home, taking inspiration from hotel interiors that have been expertly designed. If you're looking to take your utility room design to the next level, then consider attaching lights to the wall instead of simply overhead.  

This will add visual interest and provide smaller bursts of light that aren't as harsh. You can also customise the sconces with fabric lampshades in unique colourways or exposed bulbs, depending on your taste. 

4. Add task lighting

When you think of table lamps, your mind likely goes to living rooms and bedside tables, not utility rooms. However, adding lamps to the counter area in a utility or even kitchen adds useful illumination and ambience. 

'Thanks to Instagram, these new must-have spaces are being decorated with the same consideration and care as more public rooms, despite their utilitarian purpose,' says Charlie Bowles, director of Original BTC. 'Often small and awkwardly shaped, lighting is a great way to make these small spaces more inviting and of course, a well-lit room makes work of any kind far more enjoyable.'

Sometimes an overhead light can be too intense for evenings spent organising laundry, whereas popping on a warm lamp will set the mood for relaxing once the jobs are done. You can even opt for a rechargeable lamp like these rechargeable table lamps from Pooky if you're short on sockets. 

5. Introduce an industrial look

Utility rooms primarily put practicality at the centre of the design, but this doesn't mean you can't have fun with it. One way to take a utility room to the next level is by going full throttle with a warehouse-inspired look. 

Whether this is in a farmhouse scheme or alongside a modern utility room idea, lighting often uses metals and wires, so why not lean into this as a design feature? If your general utility design feeds on from your kitchen, this can also be a unique way to differentiate the spaces. 

6. Don't scrimp on style

Yes the utility room is a practical one, but that doesn't mean it can't look beautiful and lighting can play a big part in achieving that, even if you only have a small utility room.

Charlie Bowles, Director at Original BTC says, 'While our wall light Hector 30 Wall light, from £185, Original BTC remains one of our most popular models, what's new is seeing it used in more functional spaces like pantries and utility rooms.'

'Thanks to the likes of Instagram, these new must-have spaces are being decorated with the same consideration and care as more public rooms, despite their utilitarian purpose. Often small and awkwardly shaped, lighting is great way to make these spaces more inviting and of course, a well-lit room makes work of any kind far more enjoyable.'

7. Plump for pendants

Pendant lights might not be the most obvious lighting choice for a utility room, but they're easy to install and can give brilliant directional light to spot stains, as well as light up areas of your utility room storage. 

The Toulan pendant light, £110, Garden Trading has just the right balance of practicality to beauty and with a white interior shade, will disperse maximum light around your utility room.

If you utility room is part of an open-plan space, look to have your pendant light fitted with a dimmer switch so you can adjust the light levels easily when needed. 

8. Match your lighting to your hardware

To really layer the luxury in your utility room, look to match your lighting finishes to your hardware. Brass is still a hugely popular material to use in both categories and choosing taps, handles, light switches and light fittings that all coordinate will achieve a winning look, even in a traditionally practical space.

Wall lights are a great choice for a utility room as they'll help to a create a more attractive light level than just having ceiling lights, and are perfect for lighting up utility shelving too.

Peter advises, 'Wall lights can boost specific task areas such as folding and ironing zones. Those with adjustable heads will allow you to angle the light when needed. If you’re planning to install a light directly over a sink, make sure it’s at least 60cm clear and a minimum of IP44 rated. Adding LED strip lights under your cabinets or shelves will also give you some extra illumination.'

9. Let in more natural light

While not an option for everyone, fitting skylights into the roof of your utility room could be a great way to boost the natural light levels. In a space with a pitched roof it could be the answer to turn a dark, gloomy space into one that is airy and bright.

Another great way to make the room seem brighter if there is a lack of natural light, is to paint walls, ceilings and cabinetry a light cream or white shade. This will bounce any light that is able to reach the space back around the room plus it's a great budget utility room idea.

10. Favour flush ceiling lights

Spotlights are a popular choice for utility rooms for their ability to provide a consistent illumination across the whole space. Opting for fuss-free flush or recessed ceiling lights will keep the look simple and streamlined, plus they can be positioned cleverly to ensure dark corners are well lit. 

They can also be wired in sections so you don't need to always have all of them on at once, plus they still give you the option to add on additional light levels like wall lights. 

11. Layer the lighting scheme

Use overhead lighting to set the scene then place wall lights and lamps to create different levels of lighting throughout the room. 'Layer your lighting at different levels to suit your activities' recommends Mary Buchanan, Creative Director at där lighting. 'Bar pendants will produce a strong downwards steam of light, while wall lights can boost specific task areas such as folding and ironing zones.'

12. Light under the cabinets

Think of your utility room lighting scheme as an extension of your kitchen lighting. 'Functional lighting such as recessed LED strips or spotlights are great for seeing what you are doing,' says Niki Wright. But it is also worth planning how you want the room to look when you are not actually using it for its intended purpose. 'A combination of practical and decorative lighting can really make all the difference in the most used room in the home.'

13. Position useful task lighting

Given task lighting is vitally important, the source of directional light should take centre stage. Consider where you are most likely to require extra light for completing tasks – such as above the sink, where you may be dealing with stain removals etc.

Have a task lamp fitted to add more focal light, but you can also enhance the decor with your choice. This country utility room idea incorporates a number of classic country design notes – from the sage green cabinetry to the traditional butler sink and ceramic wall pendant light.

14. Adjust the direction with moveable designs

If you're looking for classic lighting but want to create a sense of freedom with the flow, choose traditional fittings which can be moved. Such as overhead spotlights or focus wall lights that can be titled in different directions. This is especially useful in a sizeable room where you might want to change the layout in future – as your household grows, so does the purpose of such rooms.

15. Coordinate the look

'You needn’t lose the glamour when creating a boot room or utility room; these rooms are often an extension of the kitchen area' explains Mary Buchanan. 'Keep the lights and style coordinated with your kitchen. Choose designs that won’t get in the way but that will still offer a good amount of light.'

16. Incorporate lighting into bespoke cabinetry

If you're building bespoke cabinetry for your utility room, consider having the lighting built-in to enhance the layout. Directional spotlights under shelving helps to make a feature of the design, while also directing light onto the space below which is prime placement for mirrors and noticeboards – as demonstrated in the utility room above.

17. Expose the bulbs to bounce light

'One way to add a little more style to your utility room could be to consider lighting,' advises Amber Greenman, Home Designer at Neptune. 'As it is often a smaller space, the more light the better.' As well as adding more lighting you can enhance the light quality by painting the cabinets in a light colour which helps by reflecting light around the space – a great small utility room idea.

18. Keep it simple with static spotlights

Spotlights are the faithful, functional lighting choice that never fails. Covering the entirety of the room and not taking up any valuable space, it's easy to see why this humble lighting design is so highly favoured. To make them even more functional install a dimmer switch to enable a change of warmth and brightness for the space.

Just like a kitchen, utility rooms are highly practical spaces where every design feature has to balance both fashion and functionality. So, your utility room flooring ideas matter. With significant footfall, the potential of spillages and proximity to mud, a flooring choice must be easy to clean and hardwearing. 

But you'll also want your utility room ideas to be stylish. Whether you're designing a brand new utility room for your home or simply refreshing an existing space, it should be an extension of your home in terms of aesthetic. Plus, having something pretty to stare at makes laundry day that little bit more enjoyable. 

'No longer merely a functional afterthought or a hideaway space from the main kitchen, utility rooms are increasingly becoming interior design focuses within themselves. Helping to tie a whole scheme together, flooring is a key consideration when designing a stylish, successful utility room,' adds Jason Cherrington, director at Lapicida.  

So with so many flooring options to choose from, from vinyl and laminate to tiles, this utility room flooring inspiration will help you pick a fashionable and practical material.

Utility room flooring ideas

1. Pick porcelain

Function comes first in a utility room, so it's essential to choose flooring that will stand up to the perils of daily life. 

'Porcelain tiles are an excellent choice for a utility room; easy to keep clean and available in a huge range of colours, patterns and sizes, they’re both a stylish and practical choice whether you’re using your utility room for laundry, washing the dog or storing muddy wellies,' advises Takwirira Rinomhota, curator at Boutique Stone.

The joy of porcelain tiles is that they come in so many different styles, so whether you're looking to add to a traditional aesthetic or a modern utility room, there's something for everyone. 

2. Choose checkerboard

An easy way to have fun with utility room flooring while sticking to a versatile design is by opting for checkerboard tiles. Black and white tiles look effortlessly chic in kitchens, so you can use them to continue into a utility or feature them specifically in this space to help zone it. 

The pop of white opens up the flooring which is great for small utility room ideas where you want to maximise the amount of light, whereas the black tiles will disguise any dirt. 

3. Hone style with herringbone

Herringbone has been a relatively recent interior trend making a statement, and it shows no signs of slowing down. With more kitchens and utility rooms taking inspiration from vintage aesthetics, it's only natural that flooring would follow suit.   

It's a great way to make a utility room feel on-trend, without busying the practical area with decorative accessories. You can also choose to make the most of the look in a durable material like laminate too, so you don't have to compromise on functionality. 

4. Pick parquet

If you live in a period property and you've miraculously found parquet hidden away underneath carpet or tiles then you're in luck. Parquet is a durable floor choice that makes it a great choice for kitchens and utility rooms, especially when treated properly. 

You can also buy reclaimed parquet if you like the look but it doesn't already exist in your home. Wood flooring is a splurge and will require proper maintenance, but the effect is simply stunning. 

5. Make a style statement with pattern

We've pointed out that practical can be pretty too, as this vinyl flooring perfectly demonstrates. The striking pattern features a trellis-like design of black stars, white stripes and blue squares to form a geometric finish. 

The tiled effect means you can achieve the look of ceramic tiles, but it won't feel chilly underfoot while you carry out your daily chores. A patterned vinyl is a great way to nail the style with ease while providing extra durability. 

6. Welcome warmth with wood

Lay a wood-effect vinyl as a suitable solution when it comes to adding the feel of classic wood warmth. 'Traditional laminate must be kept dry, which makes it tricky to care for in an area where spills, stains and mud are inevitable,' explains Inga at Lifestyle Floors. 'However, there are several water-resistant laminates available now, including our Love Aqua range, which is even suitable for bathrooms. This makes them a perfect choice for your utility room if you are looking for a beautiful wood-effect floor.'

7. Create a classic country scene with stone

For creating that traditional scullery vibe go for a a timeless flagstone floor tile. Favoured for hundreds of years stone flooring is undisputedly one of the chicest original styles around. If you don't have underfloor heating just be mindful that it can feel cold underfoot – you can counteract that by laying natural woven rugs, to finish the look perfectly.

To give your country-style utility room a contemporary edge, paint the walls black, to add a striking contrast to the light flooring and pale cabinetry.

8. Keep it simple

Keep things simple. A hardy vinyl in light grey adds enough of an on-trend colour yet still feels like a blank canvas to prevent the room from feeling too cluttered. Simple and light flooring is an ideal small utility room idea because pale coloured flooring helps brighten up small spaces, creating an illusion of space by keeping the look airy.

9. Add signature style

While utility rooms are functional, they don’t need to be boring. Even when the room is all-white, which feels clean and simple, use the floor to add a touch of style.

'With such a variety of flooring choices, there’s now a wealth of finishes and materials that can be used to add a signature floor' say the experts at Leoline. 'Vinyl and laminate floors can now replicate the look of poured concretes, stone, tile and wood and come in a variety of painted and colour choices.'

10. Choose slip resistance for safety

Choose a flooring that offers durability and practical purpose for a utility room – as this is where you are most likely to be coming and going a lot, potentially laden down with armfuls of laundry or baskets etc. A non-slip design will help to add a level of assurance as you frantically go about your household tasks.

Durability is ultimately key to ensure the flooring stands up to the strains of busy home life. Look for floors that offer a wear protective layer, water-proofing and slip resistance design credentials. If unsure, order samples to test at home before you commit.

11. Ensure easy maintenance

'Sounds obvious, but choosing a floor that doesn’t collect mud and dirt is an easy way to keep your utility space clean,' says a spokesperson for Quick-Step. 'This is especially important if your utility room is an entrance spot from your garden. Floors such as vinyls and laminates with secure fit systems are a great choice as it eliminates accumulation of dirt between tile and board joints.'

A non-fussy floor provides an easy to clean solution, which is a must for a busy traffic area.

12. Weatherproof your chosen surface

Whether you use your utility as a kitchen over-spill, a laundry or a boot room the space will be prone to spills and splashes, so water resistance should be considered when selecting flooring. 'If you’re choosing a laminate, make sure it’s a water resistant specification,' advise the experts at Quick-Step.

'Laminate floors are not all water-resistant, so careful selection avoids water or splashes soaking between planks and causing warping. For vinyl floors, water is easily tackled by wiping up spills. Hint: Whatever the floor, avoid leaving spills to sit for prolonged periods as this will help prevent staining or warping.

What is the one room we wish we had in our homes but don't? It's not a celebrity-worthy cinema room. It's not a fashionista's dream walk-in wardrobe. It is in fact a highly functional and practical utility room.

New research by kitchen specialists Harvey Jones reveals two thirds of Brits, 68 per cent, do not have a utility room in their house but all wish they did. With 75 per cent of those who are lucky enough to have a dedicated space saying how invaluable it is.

Dream room ideas: Utility room shelving ideas – organise your laundry room supplies with chic shelf solutions

Where do you stand on the utility room front? Desire or dream come true?

Home wishlist – Utility room

Utility rooms are the desirable dream space for keeping kitchen chaos at bay. This small room or space provides a dedicated area to save the kitchen from being cluttered with large appliances. It can help to alleviate the kitchen of strained storage needs.

The research also unearthed that overall cleanliness of kitchen spaces sparks 36 per cent of household rows. Could having a utility rom space be the answer to the squabbling? Housing all the cleaning up essentials and washing appliances in a totally separate room could be the answer to eliminating arguments of this nature.

If you house doesn't have space for a whole room you could try to emulate the look with smart storage. Kitchen Designer Matt Baker suggests ways to make your small space feel more generous and like that of a utility room.

'Box shelving is a great way to open up a space without overwhelming the room' Matt explains. 'If the space is small covering the walls in cabinets can make a room feel cramped and full of shadows'.

Related: Small kitchen ideas – to turn your compact room into a smart, super-organised space

'There is an opportunity to go for tall appliance housings to stack units such as washing machines or dryers,' he suggests. 'Leaving the rest of the room clear for practical storage solutions such as double base cabinets or coat hooks'.

The UK's go-to boiler manufacturer has designed its sleekest boiler ever. This month, the brand launched its new gorgeously hi-tech range, and might have just made boiler envy a thing.

'Have you seen my new boiler' isn't probably something you've ever said, or ever thought you'd say. Big and often noisy, these bulky but necessary home appliances are usually better tucked away in a kitchen cupboard – out of sight, out of mind.

But that could all change with Worcester Bosch's Greenstar lifestyle range. Created to be the first designer boiler in the industry, it's all smooth lines and glossy finish, and dare we say, a little bit sexy?

Related: How to fix or replace a boiler and look after it over the winter months

The range is made up of two models, the Life and the Style. Which will you be lusting over?

New designer Worcester Bosch boilers

The wall-hung boiler isn't just a pretty face – it's also the most powerful and has the highest hot water flow rate of any wall hung combs boiler on the market. It can comfortably heat large homes with two or more bathrooms. Yet that hasn't come at the expense of noise – the new range is also beautifully quiet, so you don't need to worry about hanging it proudly in the kitchen.

The Life is available in white, with a push-button LCD display. The Style is available in either black or white with a full colour display text screen with 'touch' buttons for easy control.

You can also connect the connect the boiler to a smart thermostat, the Bosch Easycontrol, which lets you control heating and hot water via your smartphone, via the EasyControl app. Through the app you can also monitor and control household energy usage even if you're away from home.

Buy now: Greenstar 8000 Life and Greenstar 8000 Style, from £2,500, Worcester Bosch

Related: How to insulate your home – to keep heat from escaping

'We are beyond excited to bring something new and different to the market, a boiler that you want to be seen,' says Victoria Billings, Marketing Director at Worcester Bosch. 'No longer will a boiler need to be hidden away, it’s time to allow this beautiful beast into your home. Design has come to the boiler industry!'

Will you be adding this beautiful boiler to your wishlist?

Hanging organiser Make sure you have supplies at hand for yourself and guests. Extra soaps, toothbrushes, toothpaste and packs of tissues will all fit nicely. You can also store spare supplies of scented drawer liners so they?ll perfume the linen. And impress guests with a spare pair of slippers that you can put out when they arrive.

Swimming kits Make it simple for the kids to pick up their own swimming kits by keeping their costumes, towels and goggles in bags on hooks on the back of the door so they can grab them on their way out. Wash and dry the kit and put it back in its place straight away so there isn?t a panic next time.

Shelves from top:

Blanket bag Keep out-of-season heavy duvets and woolly blankets in a zip-up blanket bag to prevent them gathering dust. If you?ve got too many to fit on the shelf, VacuSac Pack-Mate Bags from Lakeland can be a great space-saving solution, as all the extra air is removed.

Guest linens Give each guest room a colour theme for towels and bed linen. For each room you?ll need a duvet cover, two to four pillowcases, a sheet, towels and flannels. Store each set in a clearly labeled transparent plastic drawer so, when it?s time to prepare the room for guests, you can just pull it out and effortlessly carry everything in one go.

Flannels Smaller linens such as flannels are easy to lose at the back of the cupboard, so keep them to hand in an under-shelf basket. Rolling them rather than folding makes them easier to pull out.

Everyday linens Choosing one colour for each family member?s bedding makes it a doddle to keep the linens organised in your cupboard. Fold a full bed set into one pillowcase along with a scented sachet, so that you can just pull everything out in one and it will smell lovely when you make the bed.

Emergency bucket Make sure there?s a bucket in the cupboard upstairs so you can seize it quickly if you or the kids are poorly at night.

Cleaning kit There?s nothing worse than knocking something over in the bedroom and having to run downstairs to the kitchen for that essential cleaning item. Store a spare set of products such as a stain remover and carpet cleaner in your linen cupboard so they?re always to hand in case of accidents.

Spare loo rolls A stash of spare loo rolls in the cupboard will mean you?re not caught short in the bathroom ? just make sure to keep it well stocked!

From sewing machines to all the haberdashery essentials, craft enthusiasts can find everything they need for making projects with Aldi’s new Hobby and Craft range. This new Specialbuys range is all available in stores from today, Thursday 5th April.

Love crafting? These craft trends are set to be HUGE for 2018

Without further ado, here are the exciting new hobby and craft supplies to look out for...

Sewing machine

The sewing machine is a perfect investment for both beginner and master seamstresses. Whether you're altering clothes or making cushions it couldn't be simplier with the help of this easy-to-use machine. A snip at just £69.99, it's fully equipped with over twenty innovative styles of stitch, including zigzag, over-edge and blind stitch.

Buy now: So Crafty Sewing Machine, £69.99, Aldi

Patchwork quarters

Always fancied making a patchwork quilt? Now is the time to take on that project with Aldi’s Fabric Fat Quarters, £3.99. With a range of charming ticking stripes and floral patterned fabrics you can create a beautifully bespoke quilt. Each pack contains six assorted fabric squares.

Buy now: So Crafty Floral Mix Fat Quarters, £3.99, Aldi

Sewing boxes

We adore flamingos enough to take up sewing just so we can purchase one of these sewing boxes! There's also a chevron and floral print to keep sewing essentials safe and secure. The adorable Sewing Boxes, £6.99 each, feature a handy pin cushion and plastic tray with compartments for organisation.

Buy now: So Crafty Flamingo Sewing Box, £6.99, Aldi

Knitting yarns

There's something for every craft project with five variants of premium yarns. For those looking for a popular knit, the Aran Yarn, £3.99, is ideal. For those looking to make more of a statement there's the Chunky Yarn, £3.69, available in a range of bold colours including blue storm, platinum, raspberry, midnight and moss.

Buy now: So Crafty Needle Pouch, £2.99, Aldi

With a thicker fibre the Double Knitting Yarn, £3.69, is ideal for knitting hats and scarves.

Pom-poms are hugely on-trend this spring/summer. With your own easy-to-use pom-pom making kit there's no stopping you from adorning in your home. Haberdashery essentials start from just 79p.

Paper Trimmer, £7.99; Cutting Mat, £2.99

It's not just about sewing, the range of craft supplies includes a range of cutters, knives and scissors costing from just £2.99 each. From school projects to making your own greetings cards, these accessories will adds a personal touch to any creation.

Baby Yarn, £3.49 each

We know what we'll be doing all weekend!

A dressing room is the ultimate luxury. After all, who wouldn't want all of their clothes neatly hung up and shoes beautifully stored away, making getting dressed in the morning a whole lot easier.

Let us guide you in all the little extras that will make that space so much more stylish and organised.

Start with your main furniture. A wardrobe is an obvious place to begin when designing the perfect dressing room. Choose carefully to make sure you get the most storage space out of your wardrobe. Make sure there is plenty of shelving in your wardrobe so you can stack up labelled boxes, filled with of all your favourite clothes.

A white dressing table is another pretty place to make the most of smart storage solutions. Slot boxes under your table to keep all of your extra accessories safe and display your favourite jewellery and perfume either in bell jars or on beautiful glass trays on top of the dressing table.

There are so many ways to pack your clothes and accessories away in a dressing room. Choose breathable storage boxes, lined with acid-free tissue paper to protect your favourite knits, or keep lingerie in cotton storage bags, hanging on your door. Padded hangers are a pretty way of protecting your clothes and will mean you can keep your favourite clothes on display, without losing that boudoir aesthetic.

After more bedroom inspiration? You'll love these small bedroom ideas.

1/9 Keep your jewellery organised

A dressing table should keep all your small accessories close to hand. Display your favourite pieces of jewellery on a classic tree placed under a glass cloche to protect them from dust. Find a dressing table like this at New England Lifestyle. The jewellery stand is from The Contemporary Home.

2/9 Protect your clothes

Choose clothes storage bags that allow your best wool and cashmere pieces to 'breathe' while protecting them from moths. Always wash woollens before storing and layer with acid-free tissue paper.

Visit Total Wardrobe Care to find clothes storage solutions.

3/9 Stash away your shoes

Find quirky shoe boxes and add labels or photographs of the contents - have a chair nearby so you can sit down and slip on your shoes in comfort.

Bombay Duck have a range of shoe boxes and bedroom storage items..

4/9 Give garments a new lease of life

Prolong the life of delicate garments with padded coat hangers that are nice enough to take out of your wardrobe and put on show.

Visit Bombay Duck for decorative hangers.

5/9 Get ready for the weekend

Store your hairdryer and brushes in a pretty vanity case that's ready to go for weekends away at swanky hotels. If you find yourself with double items, keep one stored ready for impromptu trips, so you won't be in a mad rush!

Find a vanity case like this and other travel accessories at Cooey.

6/9 Plan an organised wardrobe

Well-organised storage will help keep your clothes in tip-top condition. Group accessories in easy-to-see drawers and box up last season's favourites when not in use.

The wardrobe was from New England Lifestyle, and the mirror from Chic Shack.

7/9 Go for smart a fabric laundry bin

A fabric laundry bin is a smart, understated choice plus it's kind to delicates as there are no rough surfaces to cause snags.

Marks & Spencer sell similar laundry bins.

8/9 Keep glass trinkets on display

Pressed glass cake stands make an attractive display area for perfume bottles and trinkets. Stack them up to double the space.

Find glass cake stands at RE.

9/9 Store away your lingerie

Store your favourite lingerie in pretty hang-up cotton storage bags - they're great for travelling too.

Visit Sibona for similar laundry bags.

So know you now our top tips for creating a gorgeous dressing room full of country style ideas.

When this couple extended the rear of their property, certain restrictions meant that as well as the open-plan kitchen diner they had wanted, they were left with a small, awkward space that they had not planned for. This meant that 'as well as a great kitchen-diner with room to relax and views onto the garden' they had a space at the side of the house that they needed to decide what to do with.

The couple considered a number of different ways to use the space, but because it was a long, thin rectangular room, it had its limitations. 'We initially thought about a cloakroom, as we have no ground-floor loo,' say the owners. This idea developed into a more fully-formed plan after long discussions about what was actually possible - as one half of this couple used to work as a stage set builder, he knew what kind of construction was feasible in the available space.

As the family spent a lot of time out in the garden, the concept to create an American-style mudroom (also known as a boot room in the UK) was jumped upon. It was a great solution for an awkward space - a practical, multifunctional room to keep the open-plan living area clean and clutter-free. 'The idea of moving the washing machine and dryer out for the kitchen was really attractive, as was having room to sort the laundry and somewhere to put boots and coats rather than the hall,' they say. Plus, it created a place for feeding the family's pets and storing the pet food! Once they had decided on the format the project would take, the couple got to work designing and fitting the details to suit their plans.

When it came to thinking about storage, the couple found what they were looking for at Jali. 'You can create a shelving system online, and they deliver it! I knew my husband could fit it, and we had a kitchen unit left over from the extension, so we incorporated that, too.'

The couple had long been thinking about getting a new washing machine and tumble dryer, so they marked out space for these while they did their research. In the end, a big chunk of the budget went on new eco-friendly appliances; 'they are so much more efficient than my old ones.'

White shelving was chosen because it looked fresh, and also because it matched the spare kitchen unit that was being fitted in the space for extra storage. The shelves were fitted high on the walls to keep them out of reach of the children, and prevent a space that was intended to be clean from becoming messy.

'I bought some big jars to put the washing tablets and fabric conditioner in,' says the owner of a simple little trick that makes a big difference to the clean aesthetic of the space. The shelves also hold storage baskets, clean towels and rinsed-off wellington boots (of course).

Boots aren't the only outdoor clothing with a particular home in this laundry space - there are also some neat wall-hung coat hooks to keep outdoor jackets and scarves neat and tidy. A playful sign reminds everyone that mud stays here...or outdoors!

To make the space even more functional - as well as attractive - 'we wanted to have a worktop across the machines. We found an attractive walnut one, and fitted it down the side of the laundry area too, to make it look neat.'

The owners decided to co-ordinate the walnut worktop with a wall of walnut-veneered MDF in the wet room, for a streamlined look.

'Initially we had just thought about a loo and basin in the cloakroom,' say the couple, 'but we suddenly realised we could make it into a wetroom with a shower as well.' The addition of a hand-held and rain shower - as well as the compact cloakroom basin and toilet - have proved incredibly useful. The family find this new space ideal for cleaning up grubby kids when they come in from the garden...and hosing down the dog too!

To tie the scheme together the couple chose to use the same limestone-effect tiles on three of the walls as well as the floor. The final wall was pinpointed as a feature wall; 'we wanted something a bit more dramatic and hotel-like.' They looked into walnut-effect MDF, which can be varnished and waterproofed.

Because they had to fit a false wall to hide the plumbing anyway, the couple decided to achieve the hotel-like feel they were after by creating a recessed box shelf in the wall panel. This keeps the space looking both chic and clutter-free.

With the rest of the space being open-plan, the bonus was that the new space could be closed off from the living area. This meant that when the washing machine and dryer were in use, they were no longer a distraction in the rest of the house. 'When we're relaxing in the sofa area, it's good to be able to shut the door on the noise,' say the owners.

The project wasn't always plain sailing - the tiles in the wetroom had to be lifted and relaid after a mistake was made fitting the drainage. However, 'now the work is done and the space is finished, I can honestly say our new mudroom is one of my favourite areas of the house,' says one of the owners. 'It's just so useful.'

Shopping list

Laundry appliances Samsung

Shelving unit Jali

Step stool Ikea

Similar basket Marquis & Dawe

Similar jars Lakeland

Coat hooks Jali

Boot chalkboard Dunelm

Wall paint Dulux

Walnut worktop Ikea

MDF wall panels Richard Russell

Basin, mixer tap and shower QS Supplies

From ombre to dip-dye, the two-tone trend shows no signs of fading away. Ideal Home shows you a quick and easy way to create your own two-tone wicker baskets, perfect for storing toiletries and other bits and bobs in your bathroom.

Step 1. Wrap masking tape around the bottom third of your basket

Step 2. Apply thin coats of matt emulsion paint and build up as you go. Paint the bottom, too.

Step 3. Leave to dry

Step 4. Once dry, carefully peel off the masking tape

Step 5. Paint a whole set and use for bathroom storage

Modern Living Simple wooden furniture, copper cookware and natural accessories create a timeless and unfussy look

Dining table, £1,599; bench,
£499; cushion, £35; Elska monochrome dinnerware, from £6 for a mug; Pebble mug,
£6; napkins, £16 for four; acacia cooking utensils (in jar on worktop), £12 each;
all Gray & Willow range, House of Fraser

LOVE IT If your life and your home seem relentlessly busy and chaotic, then this is the trend for you.
Strip your style back to the bare essentials and rejoice in the simple joy of well-designed things that play an active part

in the way you live. Nothing's for ‘best'; everything's to be used and enjoyed now

The white stuff Simple white tableware is a timeless classic

dipping bowl; Elgin glassware, from £5 for a wine glass; all The White Company

USE IT The look is absolutely perfect for a kitchen, but the beautility aesthetic can be carried through to living and dining rooms (and beyond). Look at chalky paint or peeling plank-effect wallpaper, pile up soft knits and add nature-inspired pattern for interest.

Utility chic Keep your cleaning cupboard or shelves in order with smart yet understated storage

Shoe shine box, £28; washing tablets box, £17.50; classic jug, £15; mini jug, £9; utility bucket, £22; all in Chalk; ceramic-lidded glass jars, from £1.50 each; ceramic-lidded glass bottles, from £3 each; all Garden Trading

Sitting pretty Simple stripes are ideal for upholstery

Charlotte armchairs, from £520 each, Sofa.com

DO IT YOUR WAY Beautility can be worked into lots of other looks, if you'd rather dip a toe in than adopt the style wholesale. It fits in beautifully with industrial schemes, classic country looks, mid-century and Scandi-inspired rooms, as well as pretty, chintzy, vintage schemes with cottage florals and pastel hues.

Key elements

Timeless design
Key pieces, such as furniture and lighting, are so simple they're effectively time- and trend-neutral.

Natural materials Avoid anything glossy, synthetic or silky, and stick to wood, metal, glass, cotton, linen and wool.

Nostalgia This look harks back to a simpler time and a less-complicated life, so use Kilner jars, enamelware and wooden brushes to accessorise.

Subtle colour and pattern There's a lot of crossover with classic Scandi style here - whites, greys, pale blues and greens. Beware of pattern, as it dates a scheme - look for simple, nature-inspired designs.

GET THE LOOK

Work bench Get more preparation space, plus storage, with this free standing unit

Norraker clear laquered side board, (H85 x W120 x D50cm), £150, Ikea

Pour more Make breakfast time special with this vitrified stoneware milk jug

Amberley 2ltr jug, £18, Croft Collection range, John Lewis

Perfectly poised This retro anglepoise lamp is beautiful, simple, functional and will never date

Metal angle lamp, £65, J by Jasper Conran range, Debenhams

Time for tea Choose neutral crockery with subtle detailing and a quiet, considered design

Nordic mug in cream, £5, Marks & Spencer

Well preserved Group several of these together and use them to store nuts, seeds or pulses

Glass jar with silver lid (H23cm), £4.99, HomeSense

Doing the laundry may not be top of anyone's ‘fun things to do' list, but there's no need to make it any more of a chore than it already is.

By name and nature, the utility room area has to be a functional space, equipped and ready to tackle the washing, ironing and cleaning. But with a bit of planning and a few bright ideas, a laundry room can make those tasks a little more pleasant.

The most important issue to think about is storage, because with everything from a mop and bucket to the cat's litter tray shoved in there, it's hard to keep everything neat and tidy.

Don't neglect the finer details though. Pretty the space up with vintage soaps, a vase of fresh flowers or a picture or two. Then get to work...

What's in store

Consider what you need and make sure everything has a place. Dirty clothes sit in a basket, cleaning products should be stored together and dirty tools are best tucked away. Don't rule out open shelving: it keeps everyday items close to hand and in the right storage can be put on display.

Seamless flow

Many utility areas are small spaces just off the kitchen. Keep the whole area unified by painting both in the same colour scheme so there is a flow from one room to another. Use the same worktops and cabinets to ensure they blend seamlessly.

Sink feeling

If the budget allows, build in an extra sink so some items can be washed away from the cooking area.
A butler sink is ideal as it makes it easier to do a spot of handwashing or rinse down muddy boots (or even a dirty dog!).

Hide away

If you don't have a separate room you can dedicate a corner of the kitchen to all things clean. If you don't want appliances on show, have a go at sewing a colourful curtain to hide everything away.

Keep it sweet

If you're lucky enough to have the space, try to put the ironing board somewhere that makes it easy to put up and down. And make the chores more pleasurable by shunning functional plastic for pretty accessories: a floral peg bag, wicker baskets and linen water for a sweet-smelling washday.

On display

A traditional ceiling clothes dryer is great for drying items without taking up floor space. But why not put it to use when washday is over? There are so many gorgeous tea towel designs around you could create a swish display with them.

Utility rooms by their very nature are home to a lot of items - washing equipment, cleaning products, boot racks... the list is endless.

While an organised and uncluttered utility room might seem like an impossible dream, there are several easy ways to keep the space tidy and usable.

Think about what you're using your utility room for and work backwards. Is it storage, washing or an extension of your kitchen? Read on for our top tips for decluttering and organising your utility room, whatever the size and shape of your space...

1/10 Understairs storage

Don't have the space for a utility room? A storage unit and peg rail can be squeezed into the space under the stairs. This apothecary-style chest of drawers is great for storing bits and pieces and fits in with the farmhouse feel. A letter rack keeps things organised, while antique accessories, such as the radio and doorbell, add the finishing touches.

Chest of drawers
Pine Solutions

After more utility room inspiration. We've got lots of small utility room ideas

2/10 Country-style utility room

With open shelving in the utility room, it's easy to lay your hands on the item you need. Pretty up a rustic dresser with a selection of china and decorative accessories.

Similar dresser
Fired Earth

3/10 Utility room with Shaker-style storage

Utility rooms are usually little more than a box room off the kitchen, so clever use of storage is essential in such a compact space. Put up a Shaker-style peg rail and shelf unit to give you a handy area to hang up coats, jackets and other paraphernalia.

Similar shelving unit
Notonthehighstreet.com

4/10 Eclectic utility area

Create a utility storage area in the hallway or by the back door for all the family. A console table is pretty and practical, while a large wicker basket and wooden crate will keep unsightly clutter hidden away. Scattered accessories give this utility area an eclectic look.

Similar accessories
Lavender & Sage

5/10 Green and cream utility room

Utility rooms don't have to be boring. Give yours wow factor with a lick of green paint. Wicker baskets are ideal for storing the bits and bobs you want hidden from view.

Similar baskets
Dunelm Mill

6/10 Utility room with wall storage

A utility room is usually the smallest room in the house so ensure the space remains neat and tidy by maximising wall and shelf space. These large coat hooks are a great decorating idea for hanging hats in this compact room - they even make for a quirky display.

Similar armchair
The Old Cinema

7/10 Rustic utility hallway space

Rustic stone flooring has been teamed with vintage patterned rugs and wicker baskets in this hallway utility space for a country feel that is both laid-back and cosy.

Similar wicker baskets
The Holding Company

8/10 Hallway utility room

Create a utility room you'd want to visit all the time by using quirky and clever accessories to store away frequently used items. This smart hallway design is the ideal place to store your wellies, hats and coats.

Similar floor tiles
Wickes

9/10 Practical utility room

Well planned storage is key in any utility room. Elegant built-in cupboards provide multiple storage uses. Hide cleaning products out of sight by making a smart cafe curtain for an open shelving unit. A good decorating idea is to combine wall shelves for smaller items, such as vases, brushes and detergents, with deep cupboards for bulkier items, such as buckets and dust pans.

Similar paint
Dulux

10/10 Multi-purpose utility room

A practical wooden worksurface along with ample cupboards and deep drawers provide everything you need and more in this well-equipped utility room. A hardwearing chequerboard floor is the perfect foil for wet coats and muddy boots in winter months.

Similar floor tiles
Topps Tiles

Use floral fabric, co-ordinating ribbon and rick-rack braid and a bright gingham lining to create your peg bag.

You will need:

50cm floral fabric

50cm gingham fabric

50cm blue rick-rack braid

50cm pink grosgrain ribbon, 1cm wide

Clothes hanger

Matching thread

Step 1 Using the illustration above as a guide, draw out 3 templates on paper: 1 for the back (the whole area) and 2 for the front (1 for the top section and 1 for the bottom section). Add 1.5cm all round for seam allowances and cut out the 3 paper templates.

Step 2 In floral fabric, cut one back piece, then two front pieces - one for the top and one for the bottom. Repeat using the gingham fabric. Right sides facing, pin and then machine stitch the floral and the gingham top front pieces together along the lower curve only (see illustration, above). Trim the seam allowance, turn through and press.

Step 3 Lay the gingham bottom front piece right side up on your work surface. Place the front top floral and gingham piece right side up on top and the floral bottom front piece wrong side up on top of that (see illustration, above). Machine stitch through all the layers along the top edge where the opening will be. Turn through and press.

Step 4 Pin a length of blue rick-rack braid across the bag about 1.5cm below the opening. Pin a length of pink grosgrain ribbon about 1cm below that (see illustration, above). Top stitch both in place.

Step 5 Lay the front of the bag right side up on your work surface. Place the floral back piece, right side down on top and then the gingham back piece, right side up, on top of that. Machine stitch around the two side and top edges, leaving a 2cm gap at the top for the hanger (see illustration, above). Turn through and insert the hanger. Turn under the bottom seam and slip stitch, then stitch a grosgrain ribbon bow below the hook.

This make was adapted from the book Sewing In No Time by Emma Hardy (£14.99, CICO Books), which features 50 step-by-step weekend projects. Illustrations courtesy of CICO Books.

For more decorating inspiration, craft ideas and cleaning hacks don't miss our dedicated DIY guide.

1. Conquer your clutter

Often the final destination for odds, ends and everything in between, utility rooms and potting sheds can quickly become a tavern of clutter. Opt for a stylish storage unit with plenty of drawers and cubbies, like this one from Home Barn, and keep the mess to a minimum. Choose your favourite accessories, such as pretty vases, watering cans and aprons, and display them proudly in a fuss-free space.

2. Add a natural touch

Open shelving, plain white accessories and hints of wood and terracotta give this utility space an instantly soothing feel. Try Sparrow & Co for terracotta jugs, or Aesop for simple and stylish skincare.

3. Keep it simple

If you're starting from scratch, try sticking to a neutral palette for an easy-to-plan scheme. Co-ordinating floor tiles, units and splashback give the space a harmonious feel, whilst touches of rattan and enamel add a utility-style edge. Bring in a subtle stripe of colour with this roller towel from Labour and Wait.

4. Hang 'em high!

Make the use of every inch of space with a super-practical peg rail. Perfect for hanging everything from tools to a chalkboard, it's an easy way to keep the essentials within reach. Try Garden Trading for unpainted short and long options.

5. Pretty it up with prints

If you're not a fan of a pared-back scheme, then a burst of pattern is just the ticket. Add a permanent print by opting for blinds or curtains, or choose something changeable such as a tea towel or bunting, for a lively little lift. The Summer Strawberries print (below) from Sanderson at Jane Clayton is a bright and cheerful option.

6. Embrace the elements

Rather than completely overhauling an imperfect space, why not work with its quirks to create a room that's naturally beautiful? Here, an uneven stone floor, peeling brickwork and an old farmhouse door give the shed an authentically rustic feel, whilst rows of terracotta pots bring instant warmth and life. For a similar table, try a selection from Alexander & Pearl.

7. Cover up

Bunting, cubbyholes and enamel storage - this garden workspace has it all! For a final flourish, try housing pots, utensils and twine in rustic terrariums or glass domes; they're easy to reach but protected from the elements. For similar bell jars, try a selection from Nordic House.

Don't forget to read 6 ways to make your outdoor space look amazing!

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Also known as the Shaker peg rail, this simple design can save any room in your home from disorder. The Shakers hung everything from pegs, even chairs! Use individually or run them around all four walls in a room. Paint to match your wall colour for a streamline look. There is nothing that can't be hung up on a peg rail...

Use in the bathroom

Freestanding baths are still a popular option but the rest of the room needs to be planned carefully to avoid lack-of-storage issues. A 5-peg rail mounted on the wall within easy reach from your bath is the perfect device for hanging your towels and loofars! For similar, try Willow and Stone.

Transform your utility room

Run a row of peg rail at arms-reach
height to keep your home keeping kit off the floor. If you're tight on
space, this is a smart compact living solution. Ironing boards,
dustpans, brushes and brooms can all be hung.

A place for everything

Peg rail at eye level height works really well
along a kitchen wall. Placed above a splashback it creates a neat line
and is really handy for all your go-to kitchen tools you use on a daily
basis - sieve, grater, bottle opener and chopping boards.

Bring order to your bedroom

Hung above your headboard, peg rail works
well in a row used wall-to-wall. Use to hang your bedroom must-haves -
dressing gown, a mirror and other bedside essentials. Paint to match
your wall colour or leave in a natural wood finish for contrast.

Use as a display piece

This bespoke peg rail design is hung at picture rail height. Painted in the same colour as the wall makes it a clean backdrop to display pictures and photos that are interchangeable.This would work well in a home office, you could even hang chalkboards or wall planners from the pegs. For similar, try Jali.

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1 Classic armoire
Create a seamless effect by decorating the back of a classic armoire with wallpaper to match the room. The intricate yet airy design of flowers and scrolls is a perfect addition to an elegant white cabinet with sparkling glazed doors, fancy mouldings and handles.

2 Perfect positioning
Find a prime spot on the landing for an elegant glass-fronted cabinet so that spare bed linen is always in easy reach. Not only is it a great use of otherwise wasted space, it's also an opportunity to create a focal point featuring your favourite blue, white and pink country linens.

3 Blue linen cupboard
Upcycling is the way to a country look without splashing the cash. Take your pick of the brown furniture found in every junk shop and boot sale, and transform it with a coat of cool blue paint.

4 Decorative armoire
Beautiful quilts, eiderdowns and cushions, collected over the years and much loved, deserve a special home. Show them off in a magnificen glass-fronted armoire, painted in a soft country shade.

5 Shelf idea
Pretty as a picture, this shelf edging protects linens from catching on any rough edges.
Delicate pink crochet completes the zigzag border. Seek out vintage edgings or crochet your own, then stitch to a linen strip.

6 Bathroom linen cupboard
Vintage-style louvre doors have tons of retro appeal and they're practical, too, especially in a bathroom, allowing circulation of air and preventing these neatly rolled towels from becoming damp.

7 Cupboard love
It's the details that make a linen cupboard extra special. Customise yours with chicken wire doors, line shelves and the back with a bold wallpaper or fabric and print or hand draw labels so that all your linens know their place.

The beautility trend is all about choosing functional items that bring charm to your home in addition to their practical value. Fill your home with these timeless pieces for a look that is a wonderful fusion of industrial chic and modern country.

1. Enamel storage Smarten up worktops and open shelves in a utility area with country-style enamel cannisters, boxes and laundry buckets (try Garden Trading). Keep the look ordered by choosing pieces in the same shade, like this cool mushroom grey. Chuck out old plastic tubs and complete the display with vintage-style wire baskets, clip-top glass jars and wooden brushes.

2. Marble surfaces

Smooth, cool marble worktops bring an appealing vintage look to a kitchen or bathroom. If you can't - or don't want to - stretch to topping kitchen units or an island with marble worktops, you can add this beautiful material to your kitchen in the form of a chopping board or a rolling pin (try John Lewis) instead.

3. Vintage-style kitchenware
Give your kitchen a homely feel with vintage-inspired utensils, mixing bowls, cookware and kitchen scales (try Lakeland). Fill glass jars with pasta, pulses and flour to add colour and interest, but limit materials to raw wood, clear glass and stainless steel to nail the pared-back beautility trend.

4. Warm wood
An easy way to bring a country look to a dining area is to choose unpainted wooden dining furniture. Make the look modern by choosing neat, unfussy designs with tapered legs (try Ercol). Wooden flooring will also add warmth and texture to your space.

5. Zinc accessories Add a hint of industrial style to a kitchen with zinc and galvanised steel finishing touches, such as baskets, wall signs, letters, tabletops and dining chairs. These storage cannisters by Sophie Conran have a rustic look that will add a modern edge to a country scheme.

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Learn how to make your own envelope cushion to decorate your garden bench - the perfect summer accessory!

You will need

Around 1m main fabric (we used Taplow Indigo, ref ED75010, £65 a metre, GP & J Baker)

* Matching thread

* 3 buttons (ours were 95p each, John Lewis)

* Rectangular cushion
pad (we used Feather Pad, 30cm by 60cm, £8.50, The
Upholstery Shop)

Before you start:

These instructions assume a 30cm by 60cm cushion pad - you will need to amend the measurements if your pad is a different size.

* If you want to pattern match on a fabric with a large pattern repeat, you may need to make up the cover from more than one piece, in which case add 2.5cm for any additional seams.

Step 1)

Cut a 92cm by 67cm rectangle of fabric. Fold under 2cm and then 3cm along each short edge and hem (see main illustration).

Step 2)

Lay out the fabric right side up and fold the two hemmed edges to the centre so that they overlap by 20cm. Stitch the sides taking 2.5cm seams (see illustration
below).

Step 3)

Trim and clip seam allowances, turn through the envelope opening and press.

Step 4)

Stitch one button centrally 1cm from the top hemmed edge of the envelope opening and another button equally spaced either side.

There's no need to stitch buttonholes as the overlap on the envelope is deep enough to hold its shape without gaping. The buttons are purely decorative. Insert cushion pad through the opening - the fit will be tight and you'll need to work the pad into the corners for a snug fit.

For more decorating inspiration, craft ideas and cleaning hacks don't miss our dedicated DIY guide.

Keep all your essential sewing supplies to hand with this clever storage idea that is pretty enough to display. A vanity case can find a new life as a sewing box in just a few simple steps – follow this easy guide to creating your own bespoke box.

You will need:

• Vanity case (try eBay for inexpensive options)
• Fabric for the lining (we used Belmont, £65 m, Cabbages & Roses)
• Toy stuffing (£3 for 250g, Hobbycraft)
• Thick card
• Scissors
• Glue

Step one

To create the padded lid, cut a piece of thick card to fit inside the lid of your vanity case. Cut a piece of fabric to the same size and shape, adding 5cm all round.

Step two

Glue a few handfuls of toy stuffing to one side of the thick card you have cut out. Stretch the piece of cut fabric over the top of the toy stuffing and glue neatly to the other side of the thick card – this will sandwich the toy stuffing inside.

Step three

Glue the back of the card to the inside of the lid of the vanity case to create the luxurious padded look you want.

Step four

To create a matching lining for the interior of the vanity case, cut a piece of fabric the size of the interior, adding 5cm all round. Place the fabric inside the vanity case and glue neatly in place – turning the 5cm in at the top to create a smart edge. Alternatively, you could use double-sided tape to hold the lining in place.

Tip: Attach pockets to the lining if you want to keep small sewing items separate.

Get even more inspiring decorating ideas from Country Homes & Interiors.

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1. Get your green on, inside

Instead of neglecting your home to favour pottering around the garden, why not combine the two? For the green-fingered, indoor plants are the perfect things to satisfy your gardening needs without having to layer up and face the cold. Spend a little time on them, and plants can really make a house feel like a home.

2. Show off your skills, however amateur

Whatever type of art or craft you're into, your interior is a great place to get creative, and show off your skills. Paint can always be painted over! And if you're really lacking on the performance side of things, invest in a wallpaper like this one that illustrates your interest.

3. Display your favourite equipment - in bulk!

Less isn't always more. Having equipment lying around is a more discreet way to show off your hobby. The organised chaos of stockpiled supplies shows off your passion, but doesn't dominate over your home's real design. This mass of cameras not only catches the eye, but will inevitably come in handy for real photography lovers; a great way to quickly capture the unexpected.

4. Set up an indoor play station

You don't have to have a creative hobby to be inventive.
There's a wealth of beautiful furniture out there, just waiting to be personalised. Sports lover? This bar trolley is the perfect way to add wit to a modern home, and a game of indoor golf after drinking is never a bad idea, right? Besides, with a timeless piece, your hobby as decoration can come and go as you please.

5. Live your hobby through wall and floor decoration

Got a knack for origami? Why not make your own wallpaper?
Invest in your favourite pastime and transform your home into a hobby-haven;
you can create a completely unique design and impress guests with your originality. If you hate paper-folding, track down a statement rug, or quirky side table that satisfies the look and creates an effortless design.

6. Collect objects that reflect your passion

If you don't want your hobby to define your home, why not incorporate it more faintly into your design? Have a ‘hobby corner', where you can let loose without going overboard. Collect treasures when you can, and your passion can flourish in full display. We love this history-centric desk, the perfect place to practice your Latin and sing along to Greensleeves.

7. Be open to a little bit of playfulness

You might risk some arguments with your partner, but why not have a little fun while decorating? Find some quirky household additions to express your hobby, and really highlight them in your home. This fishing-focused living room doesn't have to last a lifetime, but who knows, your partner may even learn to love it.

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Love sewing? Ready to embark on a fabulous new homemade project? From making roman blinds, to creating a few scatter cushions, before you start on anything you’ll need to make sure you have the perfect sewing kit to hand. Here at Housetohome we’ve been rummaging through our sewing boxes to come up with a list of absolute must-have tools you need in your kit…

1. Fabric tape measure
Practical and super-light weight, a fabric tape measure is essential for working our sizes and cutting to patterns

2. Dressmaking scissors
A pair of specifically designed dressmaking scissors is a great piece of kit, but make sure you keep them for cutting fabrics only

3. Needlework scissors
Smaller than dressmaking scissors these needlework scissors should be as sharp and fine as possible for intricate jobs

4. Stitch un-picker
An essential tool, a stitch un-picker makes light work of correct mistakes

5. Pinking shears
This fabulous scissor gadget creates a zigzag edge that reduces fraying

6. Glass-headed pins

The bright colours on the top of the pins make them easy to find if you drop them! Perfect!

7. Needles
Make sure you have plenty of needles, in all shapes and thicknesses. Also, be sure to have both sewing machine and hand-sewing ones

8. Thimble
A thimble is essential for protecting your thumb or finger when working with tough materials

9. Thread
Tacking thread, button thread and sewing thread, which should be the same as the fabric you're using: cotton for cotton; polyester for mixed fibres, and so on

10. Notions
Make sure you kit is stocked with different coloured buttons, a variety of safety pins, as well as elastic and press studs

11. Sewing machine
From a good beginners' basic to state-of-the-art models, a sewing machine is an essential investment for making your own soft furnishings

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We believe that just because something is nice to look at, it doesn't mean it can't work well. You might have heard of the word ‘beautility' and yep, you've guessed it, it is a mash-up of the two words ‘beauty' and ‘utility'. Why should everyday household items be hidden away, especially if they can turn the everyday into something more beautiful? Some of our favourite stores have brought out some fantastic utility ware collections. Let's take a peek...

Step into spring and get your utility room ship shape

Laura Ashley's collection starts at £18 for an enamel washing up caddy. Other items include enamel storage, simple linen tea towels and beautiful wooden brushes.

Everything in its rightful place

Get your spring clean off to an organized start with Garden Trading's simple storage solutions. Utility crates start at £58 for a set of 2, dust pan and brush with beech handle, £22, ironing board and cover set, £110, shoe shine trug, £25.

and keep tabs on useful items with these fun storage jars, £8.50 each, also Garden Trading.

Too cool to clean

The Croft Collection from John Lewis is about craftmanship and quailty and includes this super-smart range of utility pieces that, even if you don't love cleaning, are hard to resist. Our favourite pick? The gorgeous wooden handle feather duster, £35. Other items include linen aprons, £20, a metal hook rack, £20, broom, £30.

Liked this? See more utility room styles here.

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