UTILITY ROOM CHIC
Want to give your utility space an injection of style? Some carefully thought out tiles and secondhand salvage yard finds could be just what you’re after
Autility room might be practical but that doesn’t mean it can’t be stylish. With these top tips, creating your own domesticated sanctuary away from the home’s main living and social spaces has never been more tempting.
DECIDE ITS USE
Do you want a fully fledged utility room that serves every purpose? Or is yours for one very specific use?
Some utility rooms have enough space so they can comfortably be used for additional food storage, a laundry room and a recycling centre all in one.
Others may have more limited room, meaning their function is solely focused in one direction.
Once you’ve decided on the function you can choose what fixtures you need to incorporate; such as plumbing for sinks and washing machines or extensive shelving for storage.
Regardless of use, choosing quality wall coverings and flooring that will stand up to everything this most utilitarian of rooms can throw at them is a must.
Right now, the interiors market is packed with a wealth of gorgeous tiles for both the walls and floors.
Tiles are the go-to floor and wall covering for a utility room. Requiring a minimum amount of maintenance to keep them in tip top condition they will outlast carpet that is prone to staining and wooden floors that can damage easily in the case of a water leak.
Wall tiles are a fabulous option in a utility room, but if budget doesn’t allow for a fully tiled wall, a splashback around a sink – should you choose to include one – is a must.
Make sure any paint applied is a really durable mix, too – something that can handle the high levels of moisture and humidity often associated with a utility room.
STORAGE – AND PLENTY OF IT
Utility rooms, by their very nature, can be prone to clutter.
If yours is home to your washing machine, then detergent, fabric conditioner, tumble dryer sheets and ironing water are just some of the paraphernalia you’re likely to find in there. Add to the mix dishwasher tablets, washing-up liquid and any other household cleaning products and it’s clear you’re going to need somewhere to stow it all.
Just because it’s a utility room, it doesn’t mean you can’t opt for some aesthetically pleasing storage solutions.
Shaker-style cabinetry, with the obligatory Belfast sink, work well in period properties while industrial style units would tick all the boxes in a modern pad. But the best thing about a utility room, in my opinion, is its versatility. You could choose to mirror the rest of the décor throughout your home but if you want to do something completely different, go for it!
After all, this is your space – somewhere guests are unlikely to dwell, so if you want upcycled school lockers or a battered chest of drawers go for it!
THE FINISHING TOUCHES
Practical items, such as shelves, storage baskets and coat hooks are all ideal additions. They will keep the floor space clutter-free.
You can also use these most useful of items to cement your style. If you have gone with an industrial look, wire baskets and chunky wooden shelves will finish the look.
If your utility space has a more rustic feel, woven baskets placed under a bench can provide a plethora of storage.
If you want yours to have a vintage feel, scour online auction sites or salvage yards for slightly battered, yet beautifully preserved tins which make ideal storage space.
Lesley Taylor is the author of 10 interior design books and has appeared on a range of network TV shows, including This Morning, giving inspirational advice on home styling. For more information on her work, head to lesleytaylor.co.uk