How to design a farmhouse-style laundry room

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Introduction

There’s something timeless and inviting about a farmhouse-style laundry room. From warm wood accents to vintage-inspired details, it’s a look that blends charm with practicality. Learning how to design a farmhouse-style laundry room means creating a space that’s functional for washing, drying, and folding, while also feeling like a cozy retreat instead of just a utility room. Whether you’re starting from scratch or giving your existing laundry room a makeover, this guide will walk you through the essentials.

Why Farmhouse Style Works So Well in a Laundry Room

Farmhouse style is all about comfort, warmth, and functionality—three things every laundry space needs. The look is easy to achieve with natural textures, neutral tones, and rustic charm. Benefits include:

  • Durability – Sturdy finishes and materials that handle heavy use.
  • Timeless appeal – Won’t go out of style as trends change.
  • Budget-friendly options – Many elements, like mason jar storage or reclaimed wood shelves, can be DIY.
  • Customizable – Works in small spaces or large laundry rooms.

Farmhouse laundry rooms combine vintage touches like shiplap walls or apron-front sinks with modern conveniences like energy-efficient washers and dryers.

Step-by-Step Guide to Designing a Farmhouse-Style Laundry Room

1. Choose a Neutral, Warm Color Palette

Farmhouse style favors soft, calming colors:

  • Base colors: White, cream, warm gray, or soft beige for walls.
  • Accent colors: Sage green, muted blues, or charcoal for cabinets or shelving.
  • Wood tones: Light oak, weathered pine, or reclaimed barn wood for warmth.

Tip: Use matte or eggshell finishes for walls to maintain a cozy, non-glossy feel.

2. Add Shiplap or Beadboard Walls

Nothing says farmhouse like shiplap.

  • Install white shiplap on one or all walls for texture and a clean backdrop.
  • Use vertical beadboard on lower walls for charm and protection from scuffs.
  • Paint them white or soft gray for a fresh, airy look.

Pro tip: For renters or budget makeovers, peel-and-stick shiplap panels are a quick alternative.

3. Select Farmhouse-Inspired Flooring

Laundry rooms see moisture and foot traffic, so choose practical yet stylish flooring:

  • Patterned ceramic tile in black-and-white or muted colors.
  • Wood-look porcelain tile for the charm of wood with water resistance.
  • Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) in a rustic oak finish for budget-friendly style.

4. Pick the Right Appliances

While the farmhouse look leans vintage, your appliances should be modern and efficient:

  • Front-loading washer and dryer for stacking or under-counter placement.
  • White or matte black finishes work best for a farmhouse aesthetic.
  • Hide machines behind custom cabinet doors for a seamless look.

5. Incorporate a Farmhouse Sink

A deep, apron-front sink is both functional and decorative:

  • Use it for handwashing delicates, rinsing muddy shoes, or soaking stained clothes.
  • White porcelain or fireclay sinks are classic choices.
  • Pair with a vintage-style bridge faucet in brushed nickel or matte black.

6. Add Rustic Wood Shelving

Open shelving keeps laundry supplies handy and adds texture:

  • Use reclaimed wood or distressed planks for shelves.
  • Mount with black iron brackets for an industrial-farmhouse mix.
  • Store detergents, dryer balls, and cleaning products in glass jars, woven baskets, or enamel tins.

7. Install a Folding Station

A dedicated folding space makes laundry day easier:

  • Build a countertop above front-load machines using butcher block or stained pine.
  • Add under-counter storage for hampers or baskets.
  • Keep the surface clear of clutter for folding clothes straight from the dryer.

8. Use Farmhouse Lighting Fixtures

Lighting sets the tone:

  • Overhead: Rustic chandeliers, metal dome pendants, or wagon wheel lights.
  • Task lighting: Gooseneck sconces above folding stations or ironing areas.
  • Finishes: Black, bronze, or distressed white metal.

9. Decorate with Vintage Touches

Accessories complete the farmhouse look:

  • Hang a wooden drying rack or wall-mounted clothesline.
  • Add a vintage wall clock or framed laundry signs.
  • Use galvanized buckets or enamel basins for storage.
  • Display potted greenery for a fresh feel.

10. Keep It Organized with Farmhouse Storage Solutions

Farmhouse style thrives on tidy, practical storage:

  • Woven baskets for sorting laundry.
  • Mason jars for clothespins and stain remover pods.
  • Labeled crates or bins for seasonal items.
  • Pull-out hampers hidden inside cabinetry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overcrowding the Space
    Farmhouse style thrives on open, airy layouts—avoid cramming too much furniture or storage.
  2. Using Too Many Dark Colors
    Farmhouse laundry rooms should feel light and fresh; balance dark accents with plenty of white or cream.
  3. Skipping Durable Materials
    Laundry rooms need moisture-resistant finishes—avoid untreated wood near sinks or washers.
  4. Forgetting Ventilation
    Proper airflow prevents mold and musty smells—add a window or exhaust fan if possible.
  5. Overdoing Decor
    A few well-chosen vintage pieces are charming; too many can make the space feel cluttered.

Extra Laundry Tips & Hacks for Farmhouse Rooms

  • Add a chalkboard wall for laundry reminders or family notes.
  • Use rolling carts for moving laundry between rooms while keeping the farmhouse look.
  • Swap out modern detergent packaging for refillable jars or enamel tins.
  • Incorporate greenery—even faux plants—into shelves for a touch of nature.

You might also like our guide on How to Wallpaper a Laundry Room for a Stylish Touch, which pairs beautifully with farmhouse design.

Conclusion

Designing a farmhouse-style laundry room is about balancing charm with practicality. By choosing warm neutrals, adding wood and shiplap textures, using open shelving, and incorporating vintage-inspired details, you can create a space that feels both functional and welcoming.

📌 Extra Tip: Keep your farmhouse laundry room smelling fresh by storing a jar of baking soda or a sachet of dried lavender on an open shelf. Bookmark this guide and use it as your blueprint for creating a laundry room you’ll actually look forward to using.