How Can the Cost of Laundry Renovation Vary Based on Design Choices?

Renovating your laundry may seem like a straightforward task, but when it comes to planning and budgeting, the design decisions you make can significantly affect the outcome. From layout changes and cabinetry to materials and appliances, each choice plays a key role in determining the overall cost of laundry renovation.

Whether you're upgrading a compact laundry nook in an apartment or reworking an entire utility room in a family home, understanding how design impacts cost can help you stay on budget while achieving the look and function you want.

Why Design Matters in a Laundry Renovation

Design isn’t just about appearances—it’s also about how efficiently your space functions. A well-designed laundry should make everyday tasks like washing, drying, folding, ironing, and storing items simpler and more convenient. But enhanced functionality often comes with added costs.

That’s why it’s important to carefully plan your renovation, making thoughtful decisions that balance aesthetic goals with practical requirements. The cost of laundry renovation can vary significantly depending on your design direction, so making informed choices early in the process can save both time and money down the line.

1. Layout Changes vs. Cosmetic Upgrades

One of the biggest factors that affect the cost of laundry renovation is whether you maintain the existing layout or make structural changes.

Keeping the layout: If you retain your current plumbing and electrical points, your renovation will be far more cost-effective. In this case, you can still give your space a new lease on life by updating the cabinetry, splashbacks, flooring, and appliances.

Changing the layout: Rearranging the room—such as moving your sink, washing machine, or dryer—requires changes to plumbing, electrical wiring, and potentially even structural modifications. This type of renovation is more complex, requires licensed trades, and may involve council approval or strata permissions for apartments, all of which can increase your overall spend.

2. Custom Joinery vs. Flat-Pack Solutions

Storage is a top priority in most laundry renovations, and the type of cabinetry you choose has a direct impact on cost.

Flat-pack cabinets are affordable, widely available, and suitable for straightforward layouts. They’re ideal for DIYers or renovators working within a modest budget.

Custom joinery is a higher-end solution that allows you to maximise storage space and functionality, especially in laundries with unusual shapes or limited space. Think built-in hampers, broom cupboards, overhead shelving, or integrated ironing boards.

While custom cabinetry enhances functionality and aesthetics, it does increase the cost of laundry renovation due to the added labour, design input, and premium materials used.

3. Choice of Benchtop and Splashback Materials

Benchtops and splashbacks play a significant role in your laundry’s look and durability. The materials you choose here can make a big difference to your final budget.

Budget-friendly materials like laminate are affordable and come in a wide range of colours and finishes.

Mid-range options such as engineered stone or compact laminate provide greater durability and a more polished appearance, with a slightly higher price point.

Premium materials like porcelain slabs or natural stone deliver a luxurious look but come at a much higher cost and often require professional installation.

If you’re aiming to manage the cost of laundry renovation without sacrificing style, consider pairing durable, mid-range benchtops with a feature splashback for visual impact.

4. Appliances and Technology

Appliances are essential in any laundry, but they’re often underestimated when budgeting for a renovation. Choosing between freestanding and integrated appliances will also affect the overall cost.

Freestanding appliances are budget-friendly, easy to replace, and flexible in terms of positioning.

Built-in or integrated appliances require custom cabinetry and more detailed planning but deliver a sleek, modern look. However, these come at a higher cost and may require professional installation.

Upgrading to energy-efficient models or incorporating smart-home features such as automated drying, sensor lighting, or built-in exhaust systems can also increase your upfront spend but may offer long-term savings on utility bills.

5. Flooring and Waterproofing

As a high-moisture zone, your laundry must have suitable flooring and waterproofing installed to Australian standards. Failing to do so can lead to long-term water damage, mould growth, and costly repairs.

Vinyl and laminate flooring are cost-effective, water-resistant, and available in many styles.

Porcelain or ceramic tiles offer better durability and are ideal for families or high-traffic homes but are more expensive to purchase and install.

Natural stone floors are visually stunning and highly durable but are at the high end of both material and installation costs.

Proper waterproofing is essential and should only be carried out by licensed professionals. This process alone can add to the cost of laundry renovation, but it's non-negotiable for long-term durability and compliance.

Tips to Balance Design and Budget

Here are a few strategies to keep your laundry renovation stylish, functional, and budget-friendly:

Prioritise function: Focus your budget on layout optimisation, ventilation, and essential storage before splurging on designer finishes.

Mix and match finishes: Combine affordable materials with one or two statement pieces. For example, pair a feature splashback with budget cabinetry to elevate the space without overspending.

Plan ahead: Lock in your design early to avoid last-minute changes that can lead to delays and cost blowouts.

Consult local experts: Renovation professionals who understand the Sydney market can suggest creative, cost-effective solutions that suit your home and budget.

Your design choices have a major influence on the total cost of laundry renovation. From cabinetry and layout to benchtops, appliances, and flooring, every decision you make can affect the timeline and bottom line of your project.