The project
This is a complete overhaul of our early 90’s colonial style laundry into a Mediterranean Farmhouse style, using Kaboodle cabinetry (Alpine - Macaron) and European Oak benchtop. We used reclaimed European roof tiles to create a "worn" look on the floors, introduced VJ and shiplap panels to bring the Farmhouse style in, and replaced our standard sink with a fireclay butlers sink.
For a functional feature, we installed a European Oak shelf with a hanging rack (a piece of Tasmanian Oak dowel from Bunnings). The brass tones of the hardware amplify the aged "feel" of the space - making it a lovely spot for the dreaded task of washing.
Steps
Step 1
The first step was to design the space we wanted, taking into account what we needed to do in it, the budget we had available, and how we wanted it to look as part of the style of our overall renovation.
Step 2
The next step involved demolishing the existing setup so we could start with a blank slate. We removed the original cabinets, benchtop and sink and sold them on Facebook Marketplace. We jackhammered up all the tiles and glue (not a fun job) and removed all the old plasterboard including the old blue glue on the studs. Did some waterproofing here. There were a few trips to the tip at this stage.
Step 3
Building new frames with studs in the walls, plumbing rough in for the washing machine and sink taps and adding the VJ and shiplap profiles was the next step. Did some waterproofing here once the demolition was complete.
Step 4
Cabinetry time. We put together the Kaboodle cabinets and installed them, making sure the end and mid panels were fixed up off the floor, to allow for the tiles to be laid. At this stage, we also cut and fixed the benchtop, dropping the butlers sink into place.
Step 5
We started tiling with the herringbone pattern on the floor and then moved to the standard pattern on the walls.
Step 6
Once the tiling was complete, we got the plumber back for the final fit off. This involved installing the taps and mixer and setting up the washing machine in place.
Step 7
Then we started the painting. We began with the shiplap wall (Low Sheen) skirting boards (Semi Gloss) and door (Semi Gloss). Then we moved to the VJ feature over the bulkhead (Low Sheen) architraves (Semi Gloss) cornices (Ceiling White) ceiling (Ceiling White) and walls (Low Sheen).
Painter's Tape is a must through this entire process and we used the 10mm "Little Ripper" microfibre rollers for all our painting.
Step 8
Lastly, we applied timber stain to the benchtop, caulked with silicone, installed the floating shelf and drying rack, updated the electrical switch plates and received our new dryer to add to the mix.
Step 9
Time to style. As we have a Mediterranean Farmhouse vibe going, we kept it simple with a few Terracotta coloured hand towels and pots, an old Grecian urn filled with olive leaves, and wooden hangers with linen shirts to complete the look.
Step 10
The most joyful part of course is that it’s finished. Always a satisfying part of the adventure. Ready for the next room.
