Empty Nest Conversions: Laundry Room (Plus Pet Parlor!)

This week we are taking a look at one more option for converting a spare or unused guest room. Over the last month we’ve talked about converting an old bedroom into a home office, renovating an unused room for crafts and hobbies, and tips for creating a master suite—all popular options for making over an unused or unoccupied bedroom. Today we’ll consider one—let’s make that two—final options: a laundry room and a pet parlor.

Making the Upgrade

New Wood-Mode cabinetry and energy efficient appliances are a great start when designing a new laundry room. Take it a step further by upgrading the laundry room into a pet parlor for your four-legged family members; this is also a great option for converting basements, mudrooms, or larger arctic entryways. Things to consider when starting a laundry room renovation include:

• Location: Moving the laundry room to a new location may require plumbing or added insulation, and electrical rewiring, which add to the overall budget. Renovating an existing laundry room is a money-saving option.
• Dimensions & convenience: Working with a designer will help you determine where the laundry room should be located to maximize the efficiency of your home work flow. They can also help you ensure you have proper clearances to avoid a cramped workspace.
• Safety first: The laundry room has a lot going on; in addition to plumbing, there is electrical to consider, and that means consulting with professionals to help make sure all renovations are completed to code, and installations are done safely, and according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Upstairs, Downstairs: The Location Question

Some folks prefer a second-floor laundry, particularly if most bedrooms are also located on the second floor. For older homeowners this is a great move toward an aging-in-place design, as it reduces or eliminates the need to carry laundry up and down stairs. A designer can help you assess all of your options to determine the right design for your budget and space. And speaking of budget …

But no one sees it!

You may find yourself hesitating to spend money renovating a humble little laundry room. After all, it’s not like you entertain your guests there! Don’t feel guilty—a well-organized laundry room can make your home more energy efficient, and having a comfortable place to work makes any chore more pleasant.

Are you ready to transform your guest room into a more beautiful, functional space? Stop in to our showroom and speak with one of our designers! Don’t forget to connect with Cabinets & Designs on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Houzz!