It is very common to keep laundry equipment in the basement as this ensures that noisy washing machines remain far away from the heart of the home. If you're happy to keep using the space as a laundry area, however, there is no need for it to be drab or dingy. Upgrade your space by painting the walls, adding shelves to store detergents, and improving the quality of the lighting. Install drying racks that fold back into the wall when not in use, and set up a steamer in the corner.