September is finally here, which means it’s time for back to school or for some, off to college or university. Teenagers are finally ready to leave the nest…and move into the stark, concrete prison cell like dorm room. How can you make a concrete 12 X 15 space not feel so cold? Here are some savvy decor and storage tips to bring some warmth to the bland dorm and have it feeling like home in no time!
The most important thing to do before the big move is to go take a look at the space or ask for a floor plan and find out the rules of the dormitory regarding furniture and electronics. Once you have this information you are ready to start.
Bed and Beyond
In a dorm room, space comes at a premium. One of the easiest ways to make more room is to ‘loft’ the bed. Depending on the rules of the dorm you could store the original bed and bring in the Stuva loft bed with desk and storage from IKEA for $575 or you can do a smaller DIY version and buy bed risers so there is room under the bed for some drawers.
With such a tight space, your bed isn’t just somewhere to sleep. When you are tired of sitting at the desk your bed becomes a new study space. Target has Room Essentials bed rests in an assortment of great colours and patterns.
Bed rests come in an assortment of colours and patterns and are only $15
If friends pop in, your bed becomes a sofa, so you will need to make it an inviting place to hang. Grab a few throw pillows and line them up along one side to create a sofa/ daybed look. For even more seating Target’s Room Essential bungee chairs are colourful, comfortable and fold-able so can easily be put away when not being used.
Bungee chairs ($39.99) are colourful, comfortable and foldable and can easily be put away when not being used.
Decor and More
Freshman, more and more are treating their dorm rooms like bachelor apartments. With friends coming by for chill time or for study group, decor is important in showing off individuality and personality. Most dorms have rules about painting, so wall art and accessories are the way to go. Decorative peel and stick art has come a long way and isn’t just for kids, IKEA has everything from a tree to flowers to cityscapes. A cool floor lamp can add to the decor while brightening up a dark room. Mirrors can add to the look of the room while creating the illusion of space, and Target has a Room Essentials mirror that does all that and has storage too!
Conveniences of Home
You’ve got the room looking good but now you need to think of some practical items. The microwave is definitely a must for any dorm room, for quick bites, meals while studying as well as snacking. To keep all the snacks and beverages chilled you need a compact fridge, there is the basic Emerson 2.7 CU ft (Target $99.99) or if you check out Target online you can order a cool retro design from $199.99. College and university is all about study, study, study, so when its time to pull an all nighter, nothing is better than having a coffeemaker, a Keurig is a great way to go as you can make one cup at a time as well as have many selections.
A compact fridge with a cool, retro design is available from Target for $199.99.
Even if it is only for a short time it’s important that the dorm becomes a home away from home. With all these great items you can be sure the freshman is ready for their new big life adventure.
By: Natalie Deane
Did you find these tips helpful in your pursuit to transform your dorm room into your ‘home sweet home’. You can find more great tips like these from our decorating and design section under the articles tab.
