98-year-old laundry makeover

olimpiacalleja

View from entrance of refurbished laundry

This was a long-awaited project that we can finally say is complete, and we couldn't be happier with the outcome!

Originally built in 1926, our little laundry was in desperate need of a makeover. Before we started this project, the layout was impractical, it had very limited storage space, and became home to many creepy crawlies over the years. But, with patience, dedication, teamwork, and some help from power tools, we have transformed our little laundry into a functional, stylish, and inviting space.

Materials

• Double Power Point and Four Outlet Power Point 
• Downlights
• Paint
• Gyprock
• Silicone
• Plasterboard, Screws, and Tape
• Skirting Boards
• Spare timber (offcuts from a past project)
• Insulation (from a friend)

Tools

• Ryobi 1200W 210mm Compound Mitre Saw
• Makita 18V Brushless Hammer Driver Drill Kit DHP484SFE 
• Ryobi 1500W 184mm Corded Circular Saw 
• Spirit Level
• Silicone Gun
• Measuring Tape, Ruler, etc.
• Hammer, Screwdriver, Spanner, etc.

Steps

Step 1

Preparation

Removed free standing cupboards, washing machine, and dryer - ready for renovations. Kept existing floor tiles and double-cement trough.

Step 2

Electrical

Downlights were installed, as well as several new power outlets which, along with the extra space we planned on creating, would allow us to do the washing, drying, ironing, and steaming all inside the new laundry.

Step 3

Mezzanine

Built a mezzanine on either side of the ceiling cavity for extra storage, and to allow natural light to shine through the existing skylight.

Step 4

Insulation

As our laundry is detached from the house, it is exposed to the elements all year round. So, we added insulation to the roof and walls (in this photo the wall insulation was too thick, so it was removed and refitted, as can be seen in the next step).

Step 5

Walls

Plasterboards were measured, cut, and installed. They were then skimmed to create a smooth base finish.

Step 6

Painting

A few coats of fresh paint on the ceiling and walls. We opted for a cooler white, as opposed to the existing cream/beige, to give the space a more modern look.

Step 7

Plumbing

In addition to our existing hot and cold taps, we added a third tap connecting to our rainwater tank. We chose brass hardware to match the handles of our flatpack cupboards.

Step 8

Cupboards & Benchtops

With the renovations completed, we setup the flatpack cupboards which gave us plenty of storage space, and the benchtops which we would use as a sorting station. Then we added our own finishing touches.

Step 9

Our Finished Laundry!

Step 10

Before and After

 

EricL

Hello @olimpiacalleja 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your laundry makeover.

What a beautiful transformation, the black cabinets really stand out and gives the laundry such a modern look. The addition of the insulation I think will make the difference when working in this room. I can imagine how cold it must be when doing your laundry back then. But my favourite part is that you kept the traditional laundry tub and just disguised it with a benchtop. A clever way to keep the functionality of the laundry room.

Many thanks for sharing.

Eric