Design a utility room layout to be a designated space for services related to the operational task of the household. The space generally include laundering facilities, cleaning equipment & supply storage, ironing area, and sewing area. The water heater and HVAC furnace may also be housed in this room, depending on the location and size. Because the space is more or less associated with laundering, it is commonly referred to as the laundry room.
When you design a utility room layout, the thought process is similar to that of a kitchen design layout. You should design the room around work stations to make the layout functional. These stations include the aforementioned areas that involve cleaning cloths, ironing, sewing, and storage.
Considerations to design a utility room layout
Utility Room Function
The function of the utility room is to clean, repair, and store. It is an all-purpose room. The laundry area is the anchor of the utility room. When designing a laundry, the appliances and working spaces should be located in the order in which each task occurs. The first step is receiving and preparing where counter space and storage is needed to sort clothing and store laundry products. The second step is washing, while the third step is drying which include the appliances, wash sinks (tubs) and indoor drying lines. The last step require space for folding, ironing, and sewing.
Location
The utility room is a service room of the home. The ideal location would be near the kitchen, mudroom, or garage. Putting the utility room in close proximity to those rooms is the primary goal. We call that portion of the design the service area of the home. In a two story home, the laundry area of the utility room is sometimes omitted on the first floor in favor of a separate laundry room on the second floor. With the master bedroom on the second floor, that is appropriate. In this case, the laundry will be a space onto itself.
Space may not always be available for a utility room or laundry room. In that case, you will want to design a utility room layout big enough for a washer and dryer. In addition, you would like to have shelving for laundry detergent and other items. Locate the space in the kitchen, under the staircase (if on a slab foundation), in the basement, or in the garage. A laundry room designed in the kitchen is not the ideal location; however, it is a viable second option when space is limited in the service area of the house floor plan.
Note: In northern states it is general practice to locate the laundry room in the basement.
Size and Shape
Design a utility room layout using the following dimensions as guidelines.
Laundry Closet
6 feet wide and 3 feet deep is the absolute smallest dimensions to fit a standard size washer and dryer. Ideal for homes with limited space. In or near the kitchen, tucked along a hallway, or nestled under a straight staircase are typical locations.
Small Utility Room
Possible dimension arrangements: 6 to 8 feet in width, 6 to 8 feet in length (36 to 64 sf). 6 ft x 6 ft is the smallest walk-in room that you can get away with. It allows for a 32 inch door to access along with cabinets or shelves above the washer and dryer. It is best to use for just washing and drying cloths as the space doesn’t allow for much else.
Midsize Utility
Possible dimension arrangements: 8 to 10 feet in width, 8 to 10 feet in length (64 to 100 sf). This is around the typical size and square footage seen in many homes today. It provides enough room for appliances (washer & dryer), counter, cabinets, and wash sink.
Large Utility Room
Above 10 feet in width, above 10 feet in length (over 100 sf). Allows for everything in a mid-sized room in addition to extras such as a hobby station, arts and crafts work center, small office nook, or whatever you find suitable to blend with the function of the room.