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Laundry room design ideas

Stacked Washer and Dryer Cabinet: Smart Laundry Ideas for WA Homes | Joyce Kitchens

Save floor space, keep things tidy, and reduce noise with a custom stacked washer and dryer cabinet designed and built by Joyce Kitchens. From apartment laundries to large family mudrooms, our Perth-based team delivers custom cabinetry WA homeowners can trust—seamlessly integrated with your kitchen, bathroom or wardrobe renovation.

Stacking to save floor space? Build a sturdy surround with shelves and a benchtop using our DIY stacked washer and dryer cabinet guide—ideal for compact laundries and apartments.

Why choose a stacked washer and dryer cabinet?

A stacked washer dryer cupboard frees up valuable floor space and keeps your laundry zone neat, safe and quiet. For many homeowners searching “laundry room ideas with stacked washer and dryer” or “stackable washer dryer cabinet,” the goal is to blend performance with style—especially when the laundry sits off the kitchen, scullery or hallway.

A stacked washer dryer cupboard frees up valuable floor space and keeps your laundry zone neat, safe and quiet. To keep the look cohesive, browse laundry colour schemes for palettes that suit stacked layouts, from crisp white-and-oak to bold black-and-stone accents.

  • Space smart: Fit a full laundry into a 900–1,000 mm wide cabinet.
  • Safer and quieter: Purpose-built ventilation, anti-vibration plinths and acoustic panels.
  • Cleaner look: Concealed doors, soft-close drawers and integrated storage.
  • Future-ready: Designed to suit common Australian appliance sizes and service access.

Whether you prefer a shaker kitchen look across your home, a Hamptons laundry, or a sleek contemporary finish, Joyce Kitchens crafts cabinetry that complements your interior, from kitchen renovations Perth to full-house joinery.

Core design insights for a stacked washer dryer cabinet

1) Correct sizes and clearances

Most Australian front-loader washers and dryers are 600 mm wide and 850 mm high each. A stacked pair typically needs a cabinet 650–700 mm deep and 1,850–2,050 mm high, with ventilation and service allowances.

  • Internal width: 650–700 mm (some washers are 595–600 mm; allow side clearances per brand).
  • Depth: 650–750 mm depending on hose bends and doors.
  • Height: 1,850–2,050 mm for stacked units plus a top vent/grille.
  • Clearances: Follow manufacturer guidance for airflow (often 20–50 mm side/top) and vibration.
Definition: Stacking kit — A manufacturer-approved frame or bracket that safely secures the dryer above the washer. It reduces vibration and is required for warranty and safety compliance.

2) Ventilation and moisture control

Good airflow is essential—especially for heat-pump and condenser dryers used in a closed stacked washer dryer cupboard. We integrate:

  • Vented doors or discreet grille panels (top and bottom).
  • Rear service voids for air movement and cabling.
  • Moisture-resistant carcasses and sealed edges to prevent swelling.
  • Optional acoustic lining for noise control.
Definition: MR board (Moisture-Resistant) — MR MDF or HMR particleboard engineered to better resist humidity. Ideal for laundries when properly sealed.

3) Electrical and plumbing (WA compliance)

  • Power: A dedicated GPO for each appliance, positioned for safe access (not behind the machine if inaccessible). Work must comply with AS/NZS 3000 (Wiring Rules) by a licensed electrician.
  • Water: Isolating taps/valves, pressure-rated hoses and correct waste connections. A floor waste or overflow tray is recommended in multi-res settings.
  • Dryer type: Heat-pump or condenser dryers reduce external venting needs but still require airflow and, for some models, a condensate drain.

For guidance on renovation obligations, see the HIA and Master Builders WA. For benchtop material rules and safety, refer to Safe Work Australia.

Definition: GPO — General Power Outlet. In wet areas and enclosed cabinetry, placement must meet the Wiring Rules and manufacturer clearances.

4) Smart storage inclusions

  • Pull-out hampers and sorting bins.
  • Overhead cupboards for detergents and cleaning products.
  • Broom/vacuum cupboard with docking point.
  • Folding bench with laminate, compact laminate or porcelain surface.
  • Undermount or inset laundry sink, with tiled or glass splashback.
  • Soft-close drawers, Blum-quality hardware, and LED strip lighting.

Our renovation process

  1. Consult & measure: We assess space, appliance models, services and adjacent areas (kitchen, scullery, hallway).
  2. Design & 3D: Concepts showing cabinet structure, ventilation strategy, benchtop material and door profile (e.g. shaker or finger-pull).
  3. Selections: Finishes such as melamine, 2-pack polyurethane, thermolaminate; benchtops in laminate, compact laminate or porcelain/sintered stone.
  4. Quote & scheduling: Clear inclusions, timelines and project management.
  5. Manufacture: Custom cabinetry made for Perth and WA conditions.
  6. Installation: Qualified installers; licensed trades for plumbing/electrical; compliance with relevant AS/NZS standards.
  7. Handover: Adjustments, care guide and aftercare support.

Materials and finishes for a durable laundry

Cabinet carcasses and doors

  • MR MDF/HMR particleboard: Moisture-resistant core; economical and reliable when sealed.
  • Plywood: Premium option; excellent screw holding; great in coastal areas.
  • Melamine: Hardwearing, affordable, many colours and woodgrains.
  • 2-pack polyurethane: Painted finish for premium Shaker or flat-profile doors.
  • Thermolaminate: Moulded profiles, easy-clean surfaces.

Benchtops (laundry-ready)

  • Laminate: Cost-effective, large range; avoid hot pots; great for laundry folding.
  • Compact laminate: Water-resistant, thin modern look; ideal over laundry troughs.
  • Porcelain/sintered stone: Heat and stain resistant; excellent for wet areas.

Comparison: Porcelain/Sintered Stone vs Laminate (laundry use)

Feature Porcelain / Sintered Stone Laminate
Moisture resistance Excellent; non-porous Very good; sealed surfaces and edges essential
Heat resistance High; suitable near dryers/irons (use trivets) Moderate; avoid direct heat
Impact/scratch Very durable; tough surface Good; can scratch if abused
Price range (installed) $$$ premium $$ budget-friendly
Look/feel Stone-like, ultra-modern Huge decor range incl. timber/stone patterns
Maintenance Low; simple clean Low; avoid harsh abrasives

Note: Australia has introduced restrictions on engineered stone containing crystalline silica. If you’re considering “stone” aesthetics, our designers will guide you to compliant alternatives such as porcelain/sintered options.

Layouts and styles: stackable washer dryer laundry room ideas

Popular layouts for a laundry room with stacked washer and dryer

  • Single tall cabinet: Doors conceal the appliances; overhead shelf for baskets; ideal for apartments.
  • Galley laundry: Stacked pair on one side, long folding bench and sink opposite; perfect in narrow rooms.
  • Combined bathroom-laundry: Stacked washer dryer cupboard beside a vanity; ensure compliant power separation and ventilation.
  • Mudroom hybrid: Add seating, shoe drawers, and coat hooks; durable compact laminate benchtops.

Style directions that tie in with your kitchen

  • Hamptons/Shaker: Profiled doors, satin white or pastel finishes, traditional cup pulls; echoes a shaker kitchen.
  • Contemporary: Flat doors, finger-pull or push-to-open, matt black or timber accents.
  • Scandi coastal: Pale woodgrains, white tops, light-splashback tiles for a breezy WA vibe.

Our team ensures continuity with your kitchen splashback tiles, engineered stone benchtop alternatives (where applicable), and custom cabinetry details for a cohesive home flow.

Costs and timelines in Perth/WA

  • Stacked washer dryer cabinet (custom, installed): $2,800–$5,500+ GST depending on size, doors, ventilation and hardware.
  • Full laundry makeover (cabinetry, benchtop, sink, splashback): $8,000–$18,000+ depending on scope and materials.
  • Appliances: Heat-pump dryers typically $1,200–$2,500; front-loader washers $700–$2,200.
  • Trades: Electrical and plumbing allowances vary; apartments/strata may need extra works.
  • Lead time: Typically 4–8 weeks from final approvals to installation.

All figures are indicative and may vary with selections, site access and services. We’ll provide a detailed written quote and program.

Quick WA case examples

Case 1: Subiaco apartment refresh

Brief: Fit a stacked washer and dryer cabinet into a 1,000 mm niche with a folding bench and storage. Solution: MR board carcass, 2-pack Shaker doors, top and base ventilation grilles, heat-pump dryer, LED strip light, and a compact laminate bench. Outcome: Noise dropped, laundry clutter disappeared, and the look matches the client’s contemporary kitchen.

Case 2: Hillarys family mudroom-laundry

Brief: Durable “drop zone” plus laundry. Solution: Galley layout with the laundry room cabinets stacked washer dryer left, bench/sink right, pull-out twin hampers, broom cupboard and overheads in a coastal white-and-oak palette. Result: Family-friendly storage and easy cleaning after beach days.

Practical checklist: plan your stacked washer dryer cupboard

  • Confirm appliance models, sizes and a compatible stacking kit.
  • Allow ventilation grilles (top/bottom) and a rear service void.
  • Choose moisture-resistant carcasses and sealed edges.
  • Position GPOs and taps for access (licenced trades per AS/NZS 3000).
  • Consider a floor waste or overflow tray (especially in apartments).
  • Select a benchtop that resists moisture and heat (compact laminate or porcelain).
  • Add pull-out hampers and overhead storage for detergents.
  • Use soft-close hardware and robust hinges for tall doors.
  • Match profiles and colours with your kitchen or wardrobe fit-outs.
  • Plan lighting: LED strips inside or under overheads.

FAQ

What size cabinet do I need for a stacked washer and dryer?

Most Australian pairs need around 650–700 mm internal depth, 650–700 mm internal width, and 1,850–2,050 mm height, plus ventilation and service access. Always check your appliance manuals and allow side/top clearance per the brand.

Is ventilation required for a stackable dryer cabinet?

Yes. Even condenser and heat-pump dryers require airflow. We add vented doors or grille panels and a service void to manage heat and humidity, protecting cabinetry and ensuring safe operation.

Can I put a heat-pump dryer in a closed cupboard?

Yes—provided the cabinet is designed for airflow and, where required, a condensate drain. Follow manufacturer clearances and use a proper stacking kit if installing above a washer.

How much does a stacked washer dryer cabinet cost in Perth?

As a guide, a custom stacked washer and dryer cabinet is typically $2,800–$5,500+ installed, while full laundry renovations can range from $8,000–$18,000+ depending on size, materials and services.

Do I need council approval for a laundry renovation?

Most internal laundry fit-outs with no structural changes don’t need council approval. Electrical and plumbing must be done by licensed trades, and strata approval may be required in apartments. Check with HIA or Master Builders WA for guidance.

Ready to design your stacked washer and dryer cabinet?

Book a design consult with Joyce Kitchens for expert, Perth-made cabinetry that integrates beautifully with your kitchen, bathroom, laundry and wardrobe projects. We’ll tailor layout, ventilation and materials to suit WA conditions and your appliances.