Elsie’s Laundry Room Tour (Before + After)

A laundry room makeover does not have to involve a complete renovation to make the space feel fresh and more useful. This before-and-after tour shows how a few focused updates—new flooring, counters, wall tile and hardware—can refresh a room while keeping much of its original layout and storage.

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Laundry room makeover: what changed

The original room was already in good condition, so the renovation focused on finishes rather than a full redesign. The linoleum floor was replaced with penny tile, the counters were changed to marble, and peel-and-stick subway tile was added to two walls. New hardware and a faucet completed the updates, while the overall decor remained simple.

For a similar project, identify the surfaces that look dated or are difficult to maintain before deciding what to replace. Keeping functional cabinets and limiting changes to a few finishes can help make a renovation more manageable. Follow product instructions when installing peel-and-stick tile, especially when preparing the wall surface.

Color, tile and everyday details

A light seafoam door adds a small touch of color without overwhelming the neutral finishes. Hanging faux plants bring greenery to a hard-to-reach area, while real plants are used elsewhere. Choosing low-maintenance decor for spots that are difficult to access can make a room easier to care for.

Penny-round tile adds a different texture from the subway tile and marble. This room also serves as the dogs’ feeding area, with food and water bowls placed in the space. When planning a laundry room, consider how household routines affect the layout and leave enough room to move safely around appliances and other fixtures.

Storage and finishing touches

The existing storage was kept and refreshed with white paint and new gold hardware. Its shelves hold power tools, spare lightbulbs and batteries. Store tools, batteries and other potentially hazardous household items securely and out of children’s reach, particularly in a room that is accessible to family members.

Two prints by artist Bree Madden add a personal detail without making the room feel crowded. A small number of carefully chosen pieces can bring character to a utility space while keeping surfaces clear for everyday tasks.

Gold hooks provide a place to hang items, and the faucet was an inexpensive model that cost about $30 before being finished in brushed brass. When updating plumbing fixtures, check that the replacement is compatible with the existing sink and connections.

Simple laundry and cleaning choices

Wool dryer balls replaced dryer sheets as part of a move toward more natural household products. The household also uses homemade cleaning sprays. If adding essential oils to dryer balls, check the product guidance and make sure the oils are suitable for dryer use. For homemade cleaners, label containers clearly and never mix cleaning ingredients unless their instructions confirm they are safe to combine.

Final thoughts on this laundry room makeover

This laundry room makeover demonstrates how a room can feel brighter and more organized without replacing every feature. Keeping useful storage, choosing a few coordinated finishes and adding practical details can create a space that works for daily routines. For anyone planning a laundry room update, start with the changes that will make the biggest difference to function and maintenance, then add color and decor in small, considered ways.