Laundry Room From Former Dangerous Winding Stairwell
$3000
7 Days
Advanced
My home, a 1980's basic ranch with a walk out basement, had some serious design issues when I moved in a couple of years ago. For example, from the front entry, it was a step up to a landing connecting the living area to the sleeping area hallway, then a step down to a dangerous winding spiralling kind of stairway to the walk out basement. The basement has a finished living area, bedroom, bathroom AND the laundry room. The location of the laundry room necessitate going up and down this dangerous stairway on a regular basis.
View from the top
First, the stairs had to be relocated - a whole project for another post. Obviously, this project involved skilled labor beyond the scope of my limited ability, but a lot of the work could be accomplished by a skilled DIYer. Then this open stairway was floored.
Floor installed
Lovely hanging light if you're into classy brassy 1980's decor - right? I debated on the best use of this small 6's 6' space but after making several trips up and down the new stairway (love the new stairway) and through the garage into the basement to the laundry room, it was obvious- an UPSTAIRS laundry! Plumbing and additional electrical service was added. Needless to say, by a licensed plumber and electriction, you will want it to be code compliant.
Plumbing in progress
The wall is the first thing you see entering the front door so I wanted it to have,a little style, thus the window opening. The opening below the window accommodates the relocated return air vent. The door chime also had to be relocated on this wall.
Enclosing the space.
Shelving and a hanging rod were added over the washer and dryer to maximise the functionality of the tiny 6'x6' space. Because there is no heat and air vent, a really small ceiling fan was also included.
Shelves and ceiling fan.
While this is not exactly a DIY project unless you're an a skilled first-person, it's more of an example of an interesting way to repurpose a very small space. The space in the lower level walkout basement as a kitchenette - a subject for another post if there is an interest.
The completed view
Done!
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2 of 4 comments
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Great idea! I broke my ankle on a staircase like your former one, on the turn where it narrows. It must have been horrible for you with an arm full of laundry, and not being able to see your feet!!!
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To, e honest, B. Penne, I used to throw my laundry down the stairwell and pick it up at the bottom - or slide the laundry basket down the stairs, lol! Crude, but effective. The trip back up was a little trickier and I slipped and fell on several occasions. I LOVE the new laundry,room and don't miss those stairs at all.
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