Living on a college budget is something that students all across the nation are very familiar with. Paying for rent each month, purchasing textbooks for classes and most importantly, the late night fast food trips are all financial priorities for students during their college years. However, living with a college budget doesn’t mean you can’t afford to turn your apartment into the ultimate living space. Here are a few quick tips for creating the perfect spot without breaking the bank.
Show Your School Spirit
Decorating your apartment with your school colors is a simple way to add life to your living space. Most colleges have sales throughout the year at campus bookstores and retail shops that give students the opportunity to purchase a variety of stylish merchandise at low prices. Students should also take advantage of free events on campus surrounding holidays and celebrations, such as homecoming week. These events will often offer free prizes like posters and banners that can be used as décor for your apartment.
Bring It from Home
One of the best ways to decorate your new apartment is to incorporate some of your favorite things from back home. Not only will this help your parents by removing some of the clutter that’s been taking up space in the house, but it gives you the chance to give new life to old items that haven’t been used in a while. Bringing an old picture frame back into the rotation or revitalizing an antique tapestry can be perfect for designing your apartment without having to make a purchase.
Use Accessories
When decorating your new apartment, it’s important that you showcase your personality and interests. A simple and cost-effective way to do this is by adding accessories and small details to your living space that reflect your personal style. Anything from hanging a few pictures on the wall to adding a plant to your living area can be the perfect way to personalize your space, just as long as it’s not excessive. Having too many accessories in one room will create a cluttered environment.
Create Space With Dual Purpose Furniture
If you plan on hosting game nights, football viewing parties and other social events at your new apartment throughout the year, you’ll need plenty of space to entertain your guests. When decorating your apartment, take the time to pick out the perfect furniture that is not only stylish, but opens up your living area. Choosing furniture that doubles as storage, such as an ottoman, can be perfect for stowing away pillows and blankets that would otherwise take up space. A pull-out sleeper sofa is another great option that accommodates any guests that need a place to crash.
There are a lot of stresses involved with being a college student. Fortunately, if you have a strategy, decorating doesn’t have to be one of them. Keep these tips in mind and you will be on your way to decorating your apartment in no time!
