The first real test for most college students isn’t in the classroom. It’s figuring out how to turn those cramped dorm rooms into something they can call home.
Sure, schools throw in a couple of desks and bunk beds, but students are left to their own devices to create a stylish and comfortable haven for sleeping, studying and socializing.
Mona Williams, senior merchandise director for The Container Store, says there are six basic areas to keep in mind when tackling the dorm: bath, desk, closet, laundry, storage, and walls and doors.
“You want things organized but easily accessible,” she says. “Items that are multifunctional are key.”
When it comes to storage, think vertical.
“You want to maximize your space and build up,” says Anne Evans, a spokeswoman for Linens ‘n Things.
Given all the dual-purpose items to pick from this year, students may find they want to show off their space-savers rather than tuck them away.
“It used to be that storage was meant for hiding and putting away,” Evans says. “Now, storage is really out in the open, so it needs to be both stylish and functional.”
Collapsible items are high on the list of must-haves, and now it seems most anything can be broken down with ease–tables, hampers and Ottomans, just to name a few.
Adding splashes of color to the room will be no problem, as everything from bath to storage products is beaming in summer’s hottest hues, including pink, lime and purple.
“We’re seeing more and more color,” Williams says. “It allows students to customize their room’s look to really suit their personality.”
The write stuff
Sign off with acrylic wipe-off boards, $14.99 and $19.99 from The Container Store. Write with dry-erase markers, which fit nicely in the curve of the acrylic. Choose from two sizes and four colors.
Stow with style
Take a seat or rest your feet. Either way, the storage Ottoman, $29.99 from Bed, Bath & Beyond, is sure to be a hit. Extra bonus: It’s got wheels.
Wheel and wash
The days of lugging hampers and laundry baskets to the basement are gone, thanks to the hamper with wheels, $19.99, from Linens ‘n Things. When you’re finished, simply fold it down and stow it away.
Shower power
Two of the most dreaded words for a college freshman are “community bathroom.” No worries, though. The trek to the loo is made easier with a shower tote, $9.99 from Bed, Bath & Beyond.
Don’t forget
For students looking to add some privacy as well as personal touches, the French memo-board floor screen from Linens ‘n Things is perfect. Students can display photos, cards and notes between the satin ribbons and create a cozy nook at the same time. $29.99.
Tiki time
Spruce up your desk with colorful Tiki-style bamboo uplights, $19.99 from Target. Their hourglass shape puts the already fun lamp a curve above the rest.
Pillow fight
If you want to be down with the hottest pillow right now, snatch up the silky smooth Moshi pillow. The micro beading inside the stretchable spandex covers makes these squishy headrests as fun to play with as they are to rest on. Linens ‘n Things offers both square and neckroll sizes in fun, vibrant colors such as pink, yellow and lime green. $9.99 and $14.99.
Hiding place
To find extra storage space, just look under the bed. With the help of bed risers, $14.99 from Linens ‘n Things, you’ll get 6 inches of additional room.
Rock ‘n’ roll
As suggested by one of this summer’s hottest anthems, you can “lean back” in comfort in a video rocker, $79.99, from Target. Whether playing a video game, watching TV or just chilling, simply rock away and enjoy.
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Edited by Cara DiPasquale (cdipasquale@tribune.com) and Kris Karnopp (kkarnopp@tribune.com)
