Laundry Room Ideas That Actually Work in Small NZ Homes
Meta description: From integrated machines to vertical storage — here are space-saving laundry ideas for Kiwi homes.
A beautiful, functional laundry doesn’t need loads of floor space. In fact, some of the best layouts we’ve designed at Key Interiors are tucked into cupboards, hallways, or converted nooks.
If you're short on space, these small laundry ideas NZ homeowners are using will help you design a room that’s compact, efficient, and surprisingly stylish.
🧺 1. Stack Your Washer and Dryer
One of the easiest ways to save space is to stack your front-load washing machine and dryer vertically. Use a joinery frame for safety and finish it off with surrounding cabinetry for a built-in look.
Bonus: Add a pull-out bench underneath for folding.
🚪 2. Tuck It Behind Bi-Fold or Cavity Doors
Laundries don’t need to be on display. You can install a fully functional laundry inside a hallway cupboard or kitchen nook—just close the doors when not in use.
Best door types:
Bi-folds
Pocket sliders
Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry with push-to-open panels
🧼 3. Use a Slimline Benchtop Over Appliances
Install a continuous benchtop across your washing machine and dryer to create a usable workspace. It looks clean and gives you room to fold, store, or even style with plants or baskets.
Top materials:
Compact laminate
Engineered stone
Timber-look laminate for warmth
📦 4. Go Vertical With Tall Storage Units
Tall cabinets make the most of your wall space. Use them for:
Brooms, mops, vacuums
Laundry hampers or cleaning products
Extra towels and household storage
Add soft-close doors to keep it quiet and clutter-free.
🚿 5. Combine Laundry + Bathroom
If you’re renovating a small villa or unit, consider merging your bathroom and laundry into a smart, dual-purpose space. Add built-in cabinetry to hide the machines while keeping the space sleek and cohesive.
👉 See our 2025 NZ Laundry Trends for layout ideas
🧰 6. Choose Wall-Hung or Compact Fixtures
Go for a compact laundry tub or a wall-mounted tap and basin combo to free up floor area. Wall-mounted tapware also makes the benchtop easier to clean and helps reduce visual bulk.
💡 7. Add LED Strip Lighting Inside Cabinets
Small laundries can feel dark—especially in internal spaces. Integrated LED lighting inside your overheads or tall units gives the space a soft glow and makes it much more practical to use.
🌿 8. Style It Like Any Other Room
Just because it’s a utility space doesn’t mean it should feel cold. Add:
A plant or dried arrangement
A scented diffuser or candle
Curated baskets or canisters
Great design = great mood, even when you’re folding socks.
🛠️ Want Help Planning Yours?
At Key Interiors, we design small laundry spaces that are:
✔ Fully customised
✔ Space-efficient
✔ Aesthetically aligned with the rest of your home
👉 Explore our laundry renovation services
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the smallest space I need for a laundry?
You can fit a full laundry setup into as little as 1.2m wide, if stacked vertically and smartly designed.
Can I renovate a laundry in a hallway cupboard?
Absolutely. We specialise in these space-saving designs and can create full-height cabinetry that hides everything from sight.
How do I get enough storage in a small laundry?
Vertical cabinetry, internal shelving, and multi-use benchtops are key. We also use custom pull-out hampers and broom cupboards when space allows.
What appliances work best in small laundries?
Front-loading machines with stacking kits or combined washer-dryer units are ideal. We’ll advise based on your space and habits.
Do you help with compact designs?
Yes—our team designs for villas, apartments, and new builds across Auckland, with a focus on practical layouts and premium finishes.