Functional rooms are no longer relegated to the long dark hallway at the back of the house. These days, laundry rooms, pantries and closets are designed with such pizzazz that the keep-them-closed doors can now be thrown open for all to see. Innovative new appliances, fresh decorating details and smart space solutions make even the most utilitarian areas a pleasure to peruse. Take a sneak peak into some of the most private (and fabulous) rooms of the home:
LAUNDRY ROOM
Designers no longer overlook this multi-functional room that now comes fully loaded with all the bells and whistles
The details delight in this hardworking space. Designer curtains, an exquisite backsplash and a rustic table that also works as an island makes folding clothes less of a chore and more of a pleasure. Added bonus: This room boasts a refrigerator, dishwasher and other kitchen elements, which allows it to do double duty as a party prep station. (Room by Chris Remson, Block Construction and Dee Keller/Photo by Melissa Oivanki)An oversized island topped with granite, cabinets that extend almost to the ceiling, and a special space for wrapping presents makes this laundry room a luxury room. There is ample storage for less-used items and plenty of counter space for any project. (Room by Sutton Miley, Wolfe & Goux Contruction and Albert Nolan/Photo by Melissa Oivanki)This home’s fantastic interior décor extends into the laundry room, complete with brick floors and a wood planked ceiling—elements that blend well with the warm, stained cabinets. This highly functional space also includes hooks for backpacks as well as cubbies for shoes. (Room by Lionel Bailey, Bardwell Homes and Kitchen to Bath Concepts/photo by Melissa Oivanki)
CLOSET
Attention to details adds personality to this private space and makes throwing on a fun frock all the more festive
A spectacular chandelier, in-cabinet lighting and glass-paneled doors to secure the clothes ensure that this closet truly pampers while the homeowner prepares for a night out on the town. Much like stepping into a posh boutique, the added details truly elevate the dressing experience. (Room by Sutton Miley, Wolfe & Goux Contruction and Albert Nolan/Photo by Melissa Oivanki)Not only does this master closet have ample room for hanging up clothes and storing folded garments, it also includes a full vanity area where one can primp and prepare without ever leaving the space. Not pictured (but definitely worth a mention) is an antique armoire along the back wall that offers additional room for storage. Old doors, old floors and old furniture blend seamlessly with the new cabinets and warm up this large area. (Room by George Hopkins, Terry Honoré and Julie Stander/photo by Don Kadair)Modern meets functional in this appealing space, where every dressing element has its place. There are drawers aplenty topped by large cabinets—plenty of room for every wardrobe item. And it all closes up to create a serene scene. No closet clutter here! (Room by Lou Ravasio, Frank Alpan and Karen Giffel/Photo by Chipper Hatter)
PANTRY
Barware, stemware, plates and glasses—Everyday ingredients mix with entertainment items in these functional (and beautiful) rooms that make entertaining a snap
No door needed here when the pantry is as pretty as a picture. Just off the kitchen, this space stands out and draws you in with painted cabinets and glass front doors. Spare china and serving pieces have a roomy home here.Now this is a party pantry! Wide open and welcoming, this butler’s pantry features plenty of storage for serving pieces, along with the requisite icemaker and wine refrigerator for easy entertaining. The focal point of the room is a porcelain floral piece by local artist Cynthia Giachetti. (Room by Lionel Bailey, Bardwell Homes and Kitchen to Bath Concepts/photo by Melissa Oivanki)A pantry does not have to have a room of its own to be spectacular. Here, well-planned design ensures that the refrigerator, wine cooler and other storage elements are within easy reach while flowing seamlessly with the rest of the space. (Room by Lou Ravasio, Frank Alpan and Karen Giffel/Photo by Chipper Hatter)
