Introduction: Custom Utility Room Cabinets in Kilkenny
When a homeowner in Kilkenny approached Ryan Bespoke Furniture with the goal of transforming their utility room cabinets into a seamless storage hub — one that also accommodated their pet in a stylish, integrated way — we knew this would become one of our most distinctive projects. In this case study, we’ll walk through the problem the client faced, the bespoke solution we custom‑designed (complete with an integrated dog bed), and the tangible results that delighted the homeowner.
This project is part of a wider portfolio of tailored interiors, including our Bespoke Kitchen Kilkenny case study, where craftsmanship met functionality in the heart of the home.
Problem: A Utility Room That Needed to Do More
Utility rooms (also called laundry or service rooms) often suffer from overlooked design compromises: mismatched cabinetry, wasted corners, or awkward recesses. In this particular home, the client had three key pain points:
- No purposeful design for the lower window space — there was an empty area beneath a window that felt wasted. The client wanted that space to serve a useful role rather than be dead zone.
- Need for an integrated dog bed — the client is a proud dog owner and strongly preferred that the pet’s bed be incorporated into the cabinetry discreetly, rather than being an “extra” on the floor.
- Matching high-end finishes, durability and functionality — the client demanded premium materials, elegant style, and a finish that would withstand daily use (e.g. damp from laundry, humidity, etc.).
Additionally, the client was seeking design inspiration: “utility room cabinets Ireland” and “utility room storage cabinets” were among the searches that led them to our brand. They had looked at more modular, off‑the‑shelf solutions but found them lacking both in style and custom fit for their layout.
They also explored utility room cabinets ideas like utility room wall cabinets for upper storage, but needed a cohesive scheme that integrated lower, worktop, and upper storage zones — without the visual jumble often seen in generic cabinetry setups.
So the challenge was: how do we convert this utility room into an elegant, cohesive, high‑performance storage space — complete with a built-in dog bed — that feels like a fully integrated custom installation?
Solution: Bespoke Utility Room Cabinets with Pet Integration
Design Concept & Planning
From the first consultations, we took precise measurements of the room, window, and the height needed for the dog bed space. We worked with the client to understand their daily flow: were detergents stored overhead? Was folding done on the worktop? Where would baskets sit? How much clearance did the dog require for headroom?
We established three zones:
- Lower base cabinets (including the bed ↘ zone beneath the window)
- Worktop zone (for folding, laundry appliances, or utility tasks)
- Upper wall cabinets or open shelves (for storing lesser-used items)
We retained a Shaker style door profile for a timeless aesthetic, but with a modern twist in colour. The doors were finished in a soft blue/grey tone that harmonised with the room’s palette. Inside, we lined all cabinet interiors with Finsa Lissa Oak — a high-quality veneered oak product known for its stability and durability. The Finsa Lissa Oak interiors used here also featured in our Pantry Shelving Units Kilkenny project, where oak grain added warmth to open shelving. The contrast between the painted doors and the warm oak interiors was subtle but striking.
The hardware was a deliberate choice to elevate the design: knurled brass handles added texture and a premium tactile element. For the worktops, we used 30 mm solid oak boards with a clear lacquer finish to protect against moisture and wear, while preserving the natural grain. The thickness gives the worktop a visually substantial, high-end look.
If you enjoy this Shaker-style aesthetic, take a look at our Alcove Display Cabinets — another great example of blending traditional detailing with custom functionality.
Custom Dog Bed Integration
Beneath the window, we created a recessed alcove that would become the dog bed niche. Its key design features:
- A removable cushion platform that slides out for cleaning
- Front-facing ventilation slots so the dog space stays fresh in a closed cabinet
- A low front rail so the dog could step in easily
- Hidden access panels behind the lower doors to allow easy servicing or modifications
We sized this compartment based on the dog’s dimensions and ensured the lint, dust, or occasional dampness from laundry would be kept away from the pet’s bedding.
Construction & Installation
We crafted all cabinets in our workshop in Kilkenny, using local skilled joiners, and closely monitored finish quality — particularly ensuring the lacquer on the oak tops and painting on doors had a smooth, durable finish.
We scheduled the project for a four-week turnaround from agreement to installation. During the third week, we delivered and dry-fitted all units to check alignments, then returned to apply final adjustments, caulking, touch-ups, and install hardware.
On install day, we protected the floors, masked off surrounding walls, and assembled in‑room. We levelled each cabinet, aligned doors, and installed the knurled brass handles. The dog bed cushion insert was fitted last, and the client was able to test entry and comfort immediately.
Result: A Functional, Beautiful, and Unique Utility Room Cabinets
Quantifiable Outcomes
- Delivery & installation in 4 weeks, on schedule
- Over 20% more usable storage space than typical off-the-shelf solutions
- The dog bed niche was praised by the client for blending seamlessly (no “dog corner” visual intrusion)
- Client reported “zero complaints even after 6 months of daily use”
- The integration led to strong photographic results, now featured in our portfolio
- Because of the pleasing visuals and custom detail, the client referred two neighbours within a month
FAQ: What Clients Want to Know
1. How long does it take to design and install bespoke utility room cabinets?
We typically complete design, manufacture, and installation within 4–6 weeks, depending on complexity and material selection. We’ll provide a tailored timeline once your design is confirmed.
2. Can you integrate a dog bed or pet space into the utility room cabinetry?
Absolutely. We specialise in custom-built solutions and can incorporate a pet bed area with ventilation, removable cushions, or even pull-out feeding drawers — designed around your pet’s size and habits.
3. Can I choose the colour, handles, and finishes?
Yes — every detail is customisable. We offer a wide palette of paint colours, brass, chrome, or matte black hardware, as well as solid wood or composite worktops. We’ll help guide choices that match your home.
4. Do you work only in Kilkenny or do you cover other areas?
We are based in Kilkenny, but we also serve clients across the south-east of Ireland, including Carlow, Waterford, and nearby counties. If you’re unsure, just get in touch and we’ll let you know if we can help.
5. How do I get started with a bespoke utility room cabinet project?
Simply contact us to schedule your free consultation. From there, we’ll guide you through design, material selection, pricing, and timelines — with no pressure to commit until you’re ready.
