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A complete laundry renovation using Kaboodle cabinetry, VJ panelling, European Oak benchtop, sink and shelf with hanging rack. It was the winner of best bathroom or laundry makeover in our 2023 search for Australia's best D.I.Y. projects.
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.
Tools and materials
Materials used in the project:
- Kaboodle cabinetry - Alpine profile in "Macaron"
- Kaboodle European Oak benchtop
- VJ door
- Brass hinges
- Timber studs
- Plasterboard
- Screws
- No More Gaps gap filler
- VJ panels
- Shiplap panels
- Timber Protect by British Paints in satin
- Painters tape
- Dulux matt low-sheen paint
- Dulux semi-gloss paint
- Brushes (Lexicon Quarter and Italian Clay)
- 1200mm Tasmanian Oak dowel (22mm)
- 10mm "Little Ripper" microfibre rollers
- European Oak floating shelf
- Tan leather hanging straps with brass hook
- Aged brass brackets
- White Newport wall tiles
- Reclaimed European roof tiles (floor)
- Fireclay Butlers sink 900mm
- Brass taps and mixer.
Tools used in the project:
- Battery drill
- Hammer drill
- Grinder
- Circular saw
- Drop saw
- Nail gun
- Pinch bar
- Jackhammer
- Paint brushes
- Pliers
- Screwdrivers
- Side cutters
- Paint trays
- Hammer
- Nails
- Caulking gun
- Silicone.
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.
Before and after
How to plan a laundry renovation
Experienced Workshop member Adam compiled How to plan a laundry renovation, which includes space-saving ideas and how to avoid problems with your project.
More inspiration for your laundry makeover
Community member Claire completed a comprehensive laundry makeover for under $300 which included a new splashback, paint, VJ panels and timber benchtop.
Workshop member houseonhockhill completed a laundry reno using Kaboodle cabinets and benchtop.
Check out our Top 10 most popular laundry renovation projects for more inspiration for your home.
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