College dorm and apartment living has come a long way from under-the-bed
boxes and milk crates.
Sure, storage is still a priority for undergrads.
But
experts from the American Furniture Manufacturers Association also offer advice
on decorating and accessorizing to provide functional small spaces -- while
offering comfort, durability and style.
The trade association's suggestions for college style include a little
research, a good foundation, functionality and creativity.
Five tips for college students:
1) Learn your style:
This is the fun kind of research! Study decorating books and magazines to get
some ideas on what kind of furnishings best fit your space and budget. Whether
shopping alone or with roommates, it will be much easier to find exactly what
you want and need.
2 Build a foundation:
Often, furniture purchased in college will follow a graduate to their first
apartment after school. When selecting bedroom, kitchen and living room
furnishings, purchase quality, durable pieces that can easily transition to
post-graduate study.
3) Beauty follows function:
Look for pieces that do double duty. When mom and dad come to visit, coffee
tables, armoires, bed frames and many other pieces of furniture offer storage
spaces that can hide books, CDs, video games and other trappings of college
life. For small spaces, it will particularly important to choose pieces that
offer more than one function.
4) Eclectic is in:
Accessories such as wall art, lamps, area rugs, throw pillows and more can
add ambience and cohesion to a room that largely contains mix-and-match
furniture. Accessorizing offers a fast and inexpensive way to show off your
personal style.
5) Create a mood with color:
Choose a color palette or other decorating theme to tie together collected
furnishings and create a look that’s all your own.
“The white walls of a college dorm or apartment provide the perfect backdrop
to explore one’s decorating style,” says AFMA Vice President Jackie
Hirschhaut, who adds that with a bit of planning, students can create "a
comfortable and stylish ‘home away from home’.”
