Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

Originally Posted On: http://www.atyourbusiness.com/blog/make-it-yours-7-college-apartment-decor-ideas-youll-adore/

 

Ah, the college years. You will make some of the best memories of your life during this time…and hopefully learn a thing or two!

College is where you find your footing and where who you are as a person and your unique style starts to shine through. That being said, the college years can also be some of the most hectic!

If you are moving into your first apartment this fall, don’t let the stress of deciding on college apartment decor pile on to your workload!

We have put together a list of the 7 best apartment decor ideas to get your school year off to a great start.

Let’s get started now!

Plan Ahead to Shop for College Apartment Decor

No matter what your style is there are a couple of things you should think about before you get started.

Functionality and organization are key for college apartments. In many cases, you might have a smaller apartment or a roommate or two. Check out the Davisville Management Company for apartment options that will fit your style and budget.

Keeping organized and having items that have multiple functions will save you from headaches and stress throughout the year.

Let’s look at some ideas.

1. Multipurpose Furniture

You need to make the most out of your space especially if you have roomies. Buying furniture that is functional and has multiple uses with save you space and money.

Here are a few options to consider before you head out for your first shopping trip!

Ottoman/Storage Cubby

These are perfect space-saving decor items. You can use them in your living room or bedroom to store personal items. The cool thing about these is their dual-use. You can store your items and use them as seating when you have guests over.

Futon/Sofa Bed

Whether you are living in a studio, loft, or an apartment a futon is a great space and money saver. They double as seating for you or guests and turn in to a cozy bed when it is time to hit the sack. Many new models even have storage underneath for the trifecta of functionality!

Folding Tables

These are not just for your T.V dinners! Folding tables can be used as a makeshift desk for writing or using your laptop. You can even host impromptu study nights at your place using these convenient movable desks.

There are many options for multi-use furniture. Find the pieces that will work best for your needs and your space.

2. Make Your Own Art

Even if you are not necessarily the artsy kind of person making art or using found pieces will save you a ton and make your space feel more at home. Try going to a park on campus and snapping some photos of the area. Then print your images and use upcycled frames for them.

Another option is to decorate your walls with items that represent your school spirit. Many times you will be able to find wall banners and memorabilia for cheap or free around campus.

If you just can’t seem to find the creativity you could consider hanging wall shelves and decorating them with trinkets from your past or interesting pieces that you have acquired since getting into college.

No matter what you decide, finding ways to make art rather than spending your cash on high-end pieces is going to save you big time!

3. Buy Rugs

We cannot stress this pro decorator tip enough! College life can get messy to say the least. You will likely have roommates or people coming in and out of your space.

Whether you are having casual get-togethers, study sessions, or raging parties messes are bound to happen!

Utilizing heavy-duty rugs will keep you from stressing over every little spill and prevent you from having to scrub the floor to remove pesky stains.

Rugs can get a little pricey though, so check out local thrift stores or flea markets to save yourself some cash!

4. Use Bookshelves

Bookshelves are a great way to make use of vertical space. You will also have a place to store your schoolbooks and your favorite reads.

You do not have to limit your shelves to just showcase how studious you are though! Mix it up with a multilevel bookshelf. Use a few rows for the books of course, but when show off some of your framed photos or potted plants.

Again, bookshelves can be pricey as well, so try to upcycle a used one or hunt around for one at a local sale.

5. Grow an Edible Herb Garden Indoors

It is a proven fact, houseplants reduce stress and anxiety. Let’s face it…you are going to deal with those issues regularly.

If you are going to plants inside you might as well be able to eat them as well! A small herb garden will be easy for you to manage, and in the long run, it will save you money.

Consider growing easy to grow herbs/flowers like the following:

• Rosemary
• Lavender
• Basil
• Thyme

Having an herb garden will add life to your space and make you the envy of other students.

6. Less Is More

Resist the urge to overdecorate. Having a picture on every wall or a decorative table in every corner can actually make a small space look even smaller.

Take your time when deciding on pieces for your college apartment. If they don’t seem like they will be beautiful and serve a purpose in the home you might want to shy away from buying them.

Having a minimalist style is trending right now. You will save money by not buying every throw pillow and painting you see and you will be keeping up with the current style!

7. Mirror, Mirror

Mirrors are a great multifunctional item. They are perfect for snapping a pre-class selfie and they actually make a room look bigger.

Try finding an upcycled floor length mirror. If you angle the mirror correctly it will capture light. The light will make the space brighter and seem more open.

Getting Ready for Your New Place

College apartment decor is more simple than ever with these tips. Remember to be true to your style and let the decor reflect who you are.

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