How much does it cost to combine laundry with mudroom renovation? (Laundry Room | Costs, Budgeting & Planning)

In Sydney, homeowners are increasingly looking to combine their laundry with a mudroom, creating a multifunctional space that is practical, stylish, and ideal for busy family life. From modern townhouses in Surry Hills to family homes in Castle Hill and heritage terraces in Balmain, this integrated approach maximizes space, improves organisation, and adds value to the property.

One of the most common questions we receive at MB9 Australia Pty Ltd is: “How much does it cost to combine a laundry with a mudroom renovation?” This guide breaks down costs, design considerations, Sydney-specific insights, and budgeting tips to help homeowners plan effectively.

Why Combine a Laundry with a Mudroom?

A combined laundry-mudroom serves multiple functions:

• Practical Storage: Offers space for shoes, coats, bags, and laundry essentials.

• Improved Workflow: Facilitates cleaning, washing, and entry/exit organization, especially for families with kids and pets.

• Enhanced Property Value: Functional, modern spaces are highly appealing to buyers in Sydney’s competitive market.

• Space Optimization: Ideal for properties with limited footprint, such as apartments in Surry Hills, Redfern, or townhouses in Glebe.

Local Insight: Homes in Bondi or Coogee often integrate laundry-mudrooms near the entry from outdoor decks or pools, keeping sand and water contained while ensuring a seamless transition from outdoor to indoor living.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Combining Laundry and Mudroom in Sydney

The cost of combining these spaces depends on multiple factors, including size, materials, cabinetry, appliances, and local labour rates.

1. Size and Layout

The total area of your combined space has a significant effect on costs:

• Small space (3–5m²): $8,000–$18,000

• Medium space (5–8m²): $15,000–$30,000

• Large space (8–12m²+): $25,000–$50,000

Even in compact apartments, a small mudroom area with built-in storage and a laundry trough can be highly functional.

2. Custom Cabinetry and Storage Solutions

Custom cabinets, drawers, and shelving are key features in a functional mudroom-laundry:

• Cabinetry for laundry appliances: $3,000–$10,000 depending on materials and finish

• Mudroom lockers or cubbies: $2,000–$8,000

• Integrated benches with storage: $1,500–$5,000

Premium finishes, soft-close drawers, and durable cabinetry suitable for wet areas are popular in Mosman, Neutral Bay, and Balmain, while practical laminate or melamine cabinetry is common in Redfern, Marrickville, or Castle Hill.

3. Benchtops and Surfaces

Benchtops serve multiple purposes: folding laundry, organizing belongings, or serving as a drop zone for keys and bags:

• Laminate benchtops: $500–$1,500

• Stone or engineered stone (e.g., Caesarstone, Silestone): $1,500–$5,000

• Custom waterproof benchtops for laundry areas: $1,500–$4,000

Tip: For homes in coastal suburbs like Coogee or Bondi, moisture-resistant surfaces are essential to withstand humidity and occasional sand or water from outdoor areas.

4. Appliances and Fixtures

Integrating a laundry into a mudroom requires careful appliance selection:

• Energy-efficient washing machine: $800–$2,500

• Dryer (condensing or vented): $700–$2,000

• Laundry trough or basin: $200–$1,500

• Sink mixer and tapware: $150–$800

Stackable units are popular in small spaces, while larger family homes often feature full-size appliances with custom cabinetry integration.

5. Flooring and Decorative Finishes

Durable and easy-to-clean flooring is essential for high-traffic combined spaces:

• Ceramic or porcelain tiles: $50–$150 per m²

• Luxury vinyl tiles or waterproof laminate: $60–$120 per m²

• Feature backsplash or tiled walls: $100–$300 per m²

In heritage homes in Paddington, Balmain, or Leichhardt, floor preparation may involve leveling or repairing old subfloors, which increases costs.

6. Plumbing and Electrical Works

Combining laundry with a mudroom often involves relocating or adding plumbing and electrical connections:

• Plumbing for laundry and trough: $500–$2,000

• Electrical points for appliances and lighting: $200–$1,000

• Additional lighting, power points, or heated towel rails: $150–$800

Older terraces or apartments may require upgrades to comply with current building standards.

7. Labour and Professional Installation

Professional trades ensure durable, functional results:

• Cabinetry and benchtop installation: $2,000–$6,000

• Tiling and flooring installation: $1,500–$5,000 depending on complexity

• Appliance installation and setup: $150–$500

Hiring a licensed Sydney renovation company like MB9 ensures local knowledge, reliable tradespeople, and adherence to building regulations.

8. Sydney Suburb-Specific Considerations

Suburb Typical Cost Notes Mosman / Neutral Bay $25,000–$50,000 Premium materials, high-end cabinetry, designer finishes Balmain / Leichhardt $20,000–$45,000 Heritage homes; careful wall/floor prep needed Surry Hills / Redfern $15,000–$30,000 Compact apartments; stackable appliances and practical cabinetry preferred Eastern Suburbs (Bondi, Coogee) $20,000–$45,000 Coastal climate requires moisture-resistant materials Castle Hill / Hornsby $25,000–$50,000 Larger homes with space for full-length mudroom storage and multifunctional benches

Budgeting Tips for Laundry-Mudroom Renovations

1. Include All Costs – Materials, cabinetry, appliances, flooring, plumbing, electrical, and labour.

2. Prioritize Practical Storage – Allocate space for shoes, bags, coats, and laundry essentials.

3. Use Durable, Moisture-Resistant Materials – Especially important in Sydney coastal suburbs.

4. Integrate Appliances with Design – Concealed laundry appliances create a clean, seamless look.

5. Plan for Family Needs – Include seating, hooks, and cubbies for busy households.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I combine a laundry and mudroom in a small Sydney apartment?

Yes. Even compact spaces can accommodate a functional mudroom with integrated laundry trough and stackable appliances.

Q2: Do custom cabinets make a big difference?

Absolutely. Tailored cabinetry maximizes storage, hides appliances, and adds to the overall aesthetic and resale value.

Q3: How long does a combined renovation take?

A medium-sized laundry-mudroom typically takes 2–4 weeks from demolition to completion, depending on complexity.

Q4: Are council approvals required?

Generally not for internal layout changes. Structural modifications, plumbing, or electrical upgrades may require permits, especially in heritage-listed homes.

Q5: Are energy-efficient appliances worth including?

Yes. They reduce water and electricity bills, improve sustainability, and are highly valued in modern Sydney homes.

Summary: Combining Laundry and Mudroom Costs in Sydney

A combined laundry-mudroom renovation in Sydney generally costs $15,000 to $50,000, depending on size, design, cabinetry, appliances, flooring, and suburb-specific factors. From compact apartments in Surry Hills and Redfern to heritage terraces in Balmain or family homes in Castle Hill, professional design and installation ensure a stylish, functional, and long-lasting space.

For expert kitchen, bathroom, and house renovation services in Sydney—including combined laundry-mudroom designs, cabinetry, benchtops, flooring, and appliances—visit www.mb9.com.au to find out more information from MB9 Australia Pty Ltd.