Laundry in the Kitchen? The Surprising New Home Trend That’s Actually Working

     There’s a new trend I’ve been seeing pop up in homes lately, and I have to admit—it caught me off guard at first: laundry in the kitchen.

     Now, we’ve seen laundry rooms in all sorts of places. In the bedroom? Sure, that can be clever—especially if it’s just for the primary suite. In the shed? I’ve seen it. And of course, in the traditional laundry room—tried and true. But laundry in the kitchen? That one took me a minute to wrap my head around.

     But the more I’ve seen it, the more it’s grown on me. When done right, laundry in the kitchen can actually be a smart, space-saving solution that doesn’t compromise style or functionality.

When It Works, It Really Works

     One home I visited had their washer and dryer stacked neatly inside a custom cabinet, hidden behind beautiful doors that matched the kitchen cabinetry. Unless you walked around the corner, you wouldn’t even know the laundry setup was there. It was clean, discreet, and incredibly efficient. That’s the kind of design that makes you stop and say, “Okay, I see it now.”

     Kitchens are already utility-heavy spaces, so adding laundry—if planned thoughtfully—can actually enhance the function of the home. For homeowners with limited square footage, this can be a game changer.

When It Doesn’t Work… It Really Doesn’t

     Let me be clear, though: if you plop a washer and dryer in the middle of your kitchen without any sort of cover, cabinetry, or design strategy—it’s going to look out of place, cluttered, and a little chaotic. Function is important, but so is flow and visual appeal. That’s why execution is everything.

     If you're thinking about incorporating this trend into your own home, here are a few tips to keep it functional and beautiful:

• Conceal It: Use custom cabinetry, sliding panels, or bi-fold doors to keep appliances hidden when not in use.
• Insulate Sound: Washing machines can be loud, especially during spin cycles. Make sure there's soundproofing or padding around the enclosure.
• Consider Ventilation: Proper airflow is key—especially in a space where you're already cooking and creating heat.
• Keep Aesthetic Consistent: Blend the design with your kitchen’s look. Matching cabinet doors or complementary finishes go a long way.

Why It’s Gaining Popularity

     People are looking for smarter ways to use the space they have. With the rise in minimalism, downsizing, and multi-functional living, creative layouts are becoming the new norm. And truthfully, we’re seeing more people who want convenience and efficiency in their day-to-day routines.

It might not be for everyone, but for those who value functionality and clever design, kitchen laundry can be a surprisingly elegant solution.

Final Thoughts

     I’m genuinely excited to see how this trend continues to evolve. Designers and homeowners are pushing boundaries in smart, stylish ways—and this is just one example. If you’re considering something unconventional like this, just remember: the details matter. Done well, it can be a highlight of your home. Done poorly, it can turn buyers away.

     So, if you’re remodeling, renovating, or even just dreaming about your next project—don’t overlook the creative possibilities. Laundry in the kitchen might just be the next big thing.

     Don't forget to check out my YouTube video on the matter below!