I like the idea of a reflective back but I'm thinking more along the lines of an older mirror with naturally distressed silver. I can see it marrying very well with the gray cabinetry.

Thanks Robin and I'll do a reflection test today with a hanging mirror relatively the same size, hang it and live with it temporarily for a few days. Generally every room here has some sort of mirror or reflective glass surface. I can basically see into spaces without physically being in them due to their configuration and reflective surfaces, lol.

I'll also start to make a list of all the stuff that the cabinets + alcove should hold and figure out what is necessary, not so much necessary, on so on.

I'm also going to see what the machines would be like stacked since it would obscure the washer's water supply and drain. Not keen on the idea as I think their doors open opposite directions. There is an additional plumbing rough-in for a prep sink with hot and cold water to the right if that configuration was used.

You can usually change the direction the doors open on most dryers, so that should help you in your decision making-just make certain that is a fact in whatever make of dryer you are considering. I have never seen water supplies for laundry so high before. Interesting. Your renderings look great. It will turn a very visible and utilitarian space into an attractive alcove.

That's great news regarding the dryer door! I'll experiment with the stacked layout this evening. Yes, the water supply line is ridiculous. Thank you regarding the renders!

I am not sure I love the mirror idea either. Have you considered leaving yours open on both sides?

@Lynda (Zn9b/23 - Central CA Coast), I like the look of your full run counter! What does your counter height come to? Also, what is the total run of the counter?

I’ll look into what’s required to lower the water supply line and vent pipe for the drain. I’m trying to avoid having tradespeople come in due to not being able to secure inspections here indefinitely. Maybe something I could do myself? The cabinet in the render would basically enclose it.

As far as the doors go, I use the machines once a week, though wouldn’t mind if they were exposed as long as they blended in to the background. I also have to work out the details of the doors such as the integrated baseboard and how it swings into itself and which parts would be a relatively comfortable completing as this is a 90% DIY sort of project.

Another option instead of doors could just be to skirt it in a simple Belgian linen and call it a day. I’ll look for photos of what I’m imagining...

Joey, if you want to hide the water connections and are planning on a new washer and dryer, and are definitely doing front loader, consider getting pedestals for them. The height with a counter top over them may be just right to hide the connections. The pedestals could run you up to $250 for a basic pair, but if you save on cabinetry cost it may be worth it. If you settle on a w/d pair, have the store give you a pair pf pedestals at a discount. But measure first to make sure this option would work for you.

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@armjim, I'll look into the platforms. Simple, exposed wood shelving above may work with that option... Will have to render to visualize it. Thank you for the shopping advice as well!