Dorm-room decorating

04.09.2008 01:04 Home - Source: Home Envy

If not for the humble, scrap-wood produce boxes strewn behind grocery stores and local produce markets, my roommates and I would have gone without a number of essential furniture items during our University California State Long Beach days. Gathering sturdy orange crates free of splinters and exposed nails, required some effort, but the yield (used with a little imagination) was virtually unlimited. In fact, with the exception of individual beds and a floral sofa donated by a parent, we created our furniture Lego-style. A coffee table required two pairs of orange crates placed back to back on their sides. This allowed us to store essential reading material like Cosmopolitan, People, and the Delta Zeta newsletter in the living room. An end table was created by standing each crate vertically, and once we added a tablecloth, we thought we were pretty stylish. But, it was a room divider, acquired by stacking six crates (three on three horizontally), which gave me the opportunity to solve my first "open concept" challenge and earned me a reputation for being "clever" with decorating.

University-bound decorating

More recently, cries for help from three university-bound nieces - Susan on a full swim scholarship to University Michigan, Alana entering law school at Queen's, and Dara beginning her freshman year at Queen's (yes, we're proud) - has got me thinking about what decorating advice I can offer.

Getting started

First, place a large photo of your mom and dad prominently in the room - preferably where gentleman callers (do they call them this anymore) will see it. Ok. This first tip is for the benefit of your parents, the rest are for you.

As with all decorating projects, begin with a plan. Make a list of all the items you require such as bedding (two sets of sheets and pillowcases, a quilt or comforter, sleeping pillows), bedside reading lamp, desk lamp, storage bins, cordless phone, and clock radio for starters. Know the exact dimensions of the new room if you plan on moving in with more than a twin bed. Also, give some thought to the overall look and atmosphere of the room. Will you thrive in a bright and energetic atmosphere? In that case, you'll want to indulge in some of the year's hottest colours like turquoise and tangerine. Do you want it to feel "just like home" or is it time to explore a totally different style? Once you've considered how you want your space to "feel", these purchases will help you achieve comfort, regardless of style:

• An area rug can disguise ugly linoleum or carpeting and give the space a less "institutional" feel. In addition, an area carpet provides warmth and some sound proofing - essential if you plan on getting any work done in your room. It also provides a more enjoyable surface on which to lounge or exercise.
• Quality bedding is a must since you come into close contact with these items every night (at least your parents think you do). Choose classic white or off-white sheets and pillow cases which will see you through four years and beyond.
• Unless you want your daughter changing in front of a bare window encourage her to give some thought to practical window treatments in bedrooms and bathrooms. Pre-made versions are readily available.
• Make sure to include at least one comfortable place to sit. If there's no room for an armchair and ottoman, how about some floor pillows to accommodate lounging?
• Scour flea markets and garage sales for tables, desks, and chests which are given new life with a fresh coat of paint.
• Good lighting is critical. Include focused task lighting at the desk, by a chair, and near the bed so you can read and work anywhere. To create mood and drama replace standard light bulbs in ceiling fixtures and table lamps with lower-wattage frosted versions. Paper lanterns can replace standard ceiling mount fixtures and add a flirty, party atmosphere to rooms.
• Get organized with multiple bulletin boards made of cork. Keep a large basket, preferably with handles, on the floor of your closet for collecting laundry and use another to hold bathroom supplies.
• Storage, storage, storage. Since most college living quarters are small, utilize space under the bed with rolling drawers or plastic containers. Stackable storage units (like orange crates) maximize vertical space. Closet accessories such as peg racks, over-the-door shoe racks, belt and tie holders, and hanging shelves will keep clothing organized.
• Paint the walls in a glorious shade that makes you feel great. If money is really limited ask your local paint dealer about off tints, gallons of paint that have been returned because the colour isn't just right.
• Create opulence on a modest budget and let your personality shine by incorporating trendy accessories such as decorative pillows, throws, and vases. If you opt for neutral coloured sofa and chairs you can introduce virtually any accent colour you want.

Don't limit yourself to decorating with orange crates if you don't absolutely have to. Why not send out a missive to family and friends asking for castoffs such as a reading lamp or chair? If there is a small budget shop at some of the larger retail stores like Home Depot, Caban, Home Sense, and Urban Outfitters which offer good quality at affordable prices.

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