Early washers and dryers went where the plumbing was usually the kitchen. They were noisy and often went in the basement. But designers say today s quieter, more compact and more stylish machines are back throughout the home.
Sustainability concerns are also changing laundry spaces. Energy-saving features on the machinery are standard, and homeowners are asking for simple sinks for hand-washing garments, as well as racks and retractable clotheslines to air dry, designers say.