Dorm Design 404: Maximize Your Space

Aug. 31, 2010 - PRLog -- As millions of college students prepare to settle into their residence halls for fall semester, many will deal with the problems, challenges and stresses of moving away from home for the first time.

This can be especially challenging due to the limited amount of personal space provided by the average dorm room. With so little to work with, some find it hard to truly make it feel like home. However, by making the most creative use of the space they have and using some simple design techniques to brighten up their living areas, students will find it easier to make the transition into higher education.

To make the most out of their time in campus residence halls and apartments, http://www.StudentMarket.com, offers the following space-saving tips:

1) Multifunctional Furniture. Storage is at a premium in the dorms. However, it is amazing what one can do with a small amount of space by using multifunctional storage such as an ottoman storage cube or a futon that can be transformed into a sofa chair or lounger. Storage cubes units are excellent for storing books, game systems, CDs or school supplies, while providing another seat or occasional table.
2) Raise it Up. Simply put, beds take up an incredible amount of space and any valuable space gained underneath can be used to store personal items. Consider a loft type of bed and place a computer desk underneath it.
3) Make Hooks Your Best Friend. When finding places to store items, one often-overlooked option is the back of the door. This can be an excellent location to place hooks, where coats, towels and clothes can be hung.
4) Brighten up the Room. By using brightly colored comforters, linens and pillow cases, one can turn a dorm room into a warm and welcoming environment that appears more open.
5) Make Use of Vertical Space. Dorm rooms, while small, usually have ceilings that are adequate. Make use of this extra space with bookcases, vertical dressers and, if possible, shelving.
6) Eliminate Clutter. Through the use of shoe racks and organizing bins, students can store their shoes, clothes and other items out of sight when they are not using them.
7) Use corners. By freeing up the middle of the room, if possible, the room will look more spacious.

Founded in 1995, http://www.StudentMarket.com, a retailer of furniture and home goods to students across North America, has dedicated product specialists in over a dozen product categories, such as bedding and storage. The company aims to help students make informed decisions before purchasing furniture and other items for their unique living spaces.  StudentMarket.com has served more than 3,000,000 students at 1,800 colleges and universities.

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Founded in 1995, StudentMarket.com offers a wide selection of quality furniture for every room of the home.