Dismissed as the site of dreaded chores, laundries are rarely a person’s favourite room. In fact, they’re oft forgot and overlooked but that’s why renovating to increase functionality is important. We spoke to builder and Front Porch Properties founder Rachael Turner and John Harrison, Kaboodle Kitchen marketing manager, for their tips on managing a laundry reno for less than $10K.
Builder and content creator Alicia, her electrician husband Ian, and the couple’s two young daughters and son.
Location? North-east Melbourne.
Original laundry? A new build laundry with no bench space and cabinetry that had been selected only because it was available during Covid lockdowns.
Timeframe? Two weeks.The works: “It was about creating an English cottage vibe with colour drenching and a timber benchtop. By reworking it, I actually doubled storage and also gained work space.”
Who lives here?
Cabinetry
What are the options? If you are content with the layout and size of your cabinetry, then simply replacing the doors will enhance the look of the space without significantly hurting your wallet. Otherwise, Rachael says, “Opt for lower-cost cabinetry, such as laminate or even flat pack.”
Installing open shelves will also reduce costs. “Eliminating overhead cabinets also helps to make the room feel less top heavy and overbearing,” she adds. John agrees with this, while stressing the importance of ensuring you plan for all of your cleaning and ironing supplies, which can be bulky. “Consider adding practical features like pull-out hampers and tall cabinets to neatly tuck away vacuums, mops, and brooms,” he suggests. To maximise storage, try internal solutions such as Kaboodle Kitchen base mount laundry hampers.
Estimated cost: $750–$1500 for typical flat pack options.
Benchtops & splashbacks
What are the options? To update a tiled splashback, save money by simply painting instead of replacing. For benchtops, consider laminate or timber. These more budget-friendly materials are perfect in laundries as they are tucked away, rather than on show like a kitchen. John suggests timber for warmth, or “water-resistant options such as laminate.”
Estimated cost: $50–$800.
Appliances
What are the options? We love front-load washers and dryers, as they allow you to maximise bench space, making everyday laundry tasks more convenient in one dedicated area,” says John. While Rachael advises that some people prefer stacking appliances, or installing them up high to avoid bending down, placing front loaders side by side does allow for a benchtop to run seamlessly over the top
Estimated cost: $500–$1500 per appliance.
Ventilation
What are the options? Natural ventilation is important, especially in Australian climates. “Most budget dryers require ducted ventilation, so if your laundry doesn’t have a window, an exhaust fan will be necessary,” advises Rachael. “A standard ventilation fan is a cost-effective choice, with plenty of upgrade options available, such as high-extraction models.”
Estimated cost: $50–$800.
Hardware & tapware
What are the options? “Tapware comes in a wide range of finishes, so choose the best quality within your budget,” suggests Rachael. The most important thing is to pick a finish that fits within your budget as well as the overall style of your home.
Estimated cost: $50 for washing machine tapware. Sink sets range from $100–$600.
The best builder’s tips for an affordable laundry renovation
- “Reconfiguring walls for a laundry rarely produces life-changing results,” says Rachael. “While we often remove walls in main areas to greatly increase function and liveability, we rarely see the value for money in making massive structural changes to a laundry. Save your money here!”
- Building new, or renovating right back to the bare frame? Line all the walls with VJ sheets (rather than gyprock) and use this to double as a splashback,” suggests Rachael. This will eliminate the cost of tiles, a tiler and a plasterer while adding classic Australian aesthetic appeal.
- “Consider installing a hanging rail, perfect for air-drying delicate items,” suggests John.
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