Key Takeaways
- A utility room typically costs £3,000 to £8,000 depending on size, plumbing and fit-out.
- It moves laundry and clutter out of the kitchen, keeping it calm and sociable.
- Common spots are off the kitchen, in a rear lobby, or part of an extension.
- Plumbing for a washing machine, sink and storage are the essentials.
- A well-planned utility is a sought-after feature in family homes.
As open-plan kitchens become the heart of the London home, the humble utility room has become more desirable than ever, taking the laundry, mess and clutter somewhere else. This guide covers utility room ideas, costs, and how to fit one into your home.
How much does a utility room cost?
A utility room in London typically costs £3,000 to £8,000, depending on size, the units and worktop, and how much plumbing and electrical work is involved. A simple utility built into existing space sits at the lower end; a fully fitted room with a sink, integrated appliances and bespoke storage sits higher.
Where to fit one
The best location is close to the kitchen and to existing services. Common spots are:
- Off the kitchen, in an adjoining room or lobby.
- In a rear hallway or back-of-house space.
- As part of a garage conversion.
- Built into a kitchen extension.
What to include
A practical utility room earns its space by taking on the jobs you do not want in the kitchen:
- Plumbing and space for a washing machine and ideally a tumble dryer.
- A deep sink for handwashing, soaking and filling buckets.
- Worktop space for folding and sorting.
- Generous storage for cleaning products, laundry and bulky items. See our storage ideas.
- Somewhere to hang or dry clothes, and often a boot or coat area combined.
Why it transforms an open-plan kitchen
In an open-plan kitchen-diner, noise and mess have nowhere to hide. A utility room lets you move the washing machine, dryer and cleaning clutter out of sight, keeping the main space calm and sociable. This is precisely why utilities have become such a sought-after feature, and why buyers value them.
Does it add value?
A well-planned utility room is a desirable feature in family homes, adding practicality and helping the kitchen stay uncluttered. While it is not a headline value-adder like an extra bedroom, it broadens a home's appeal, especially among families. GS Renovation designs and builds utility rooms across London, often as part of a kitchen project or extension. For a free quote, contact us or call 07472 424 226.