I wouldn't want my sewing area to be part of the laundry or the mudroom. I can't imagine that it would be all that enjoyable to spend time there. At least not for me. Once I get going on a project, I like to spread out. I also find I need lots of natural light to be comfortable when I'm working on a project. How much light would you really have? I think it would be easier to combine the mudroom and laundry area and then incorporate long term storage if you have extra room in that area. If you like to garden, it could also be space for a utility sink and grow lights or a potting area. I'd steal an extra bedroom and have my sewing area do double duty with a guest bedroom. I have a good sized laundry room and I'm always suprised when people ask why I didn't make the extra space into my sewing area. No one ever asks why I didn't stick the DH and his computer in there! Gloria

;) The "base cabinet" on the plans isn't set in stone. Really the only things unmovable at this point are the washer/dryer and electric panel behind the exterior door (on the same wall as pocket door). I'm leaning towards cabinets above w/d, a handing rod with bench below, and a broom/vacuum closet next to it with shelves or cabinet above. Maybe a retractable drying rack above the bench? What do you think's a comfortable width for the bench? 18" doesn't seem wide enough--though only one person will sit at a time.

Thanks everyone. I really appreciate all the advice. I am currently getting quotes on a tankless water heater. Mine is a 18 years old gas system. If I can create enough space for a countertop or bench that really adds value to the room and justifies the extra cost, I will upgrade. Otherwise, enclosing a new traditional water heater is also a possibility, since I’ll likely replace this one very soon. I was thinking of stacking the washer and dryer so we could have a bench to sit on to tie our shoes or wait on. However, I believe my dryer duct and electrical cord for the washer could reach it I did side-by-side. I like the look of a side-by-side with a counter over the washer and dryer, and perhaps if I upgrade to a tankless system, do a corner bench where the current traditional water tank is? We also have that big white cabinet next to the stairs to go into the kitchen which we could do something with. That is poorly put together and needs to be fixed.

It looks like you prefer to have the right tool for the job, so you have lots of tools. :) I think that your storage pieces (hooks, wall hanger, etc...) are too small for the things they are holding. See if you can find a way to increase the space between hooks, get a larger rack for next to the light switch so that the things on the rack are inside the rack and not spilling over. Do you use those cabinets for storage or for things you use frequently? You shouldn't stress over this, I can see you have a baby and that means lots of work. But if you are in the mood to decorate as well as rearrange, try to add your favorite color, maybe in a way that defines an area for coats, an area for detergent storage, etc...And get hooks that are identical, maybe in the favorite color.