Posted on: September 7, 2009
Forever Young
Think like a college student when it comes to home décor - accent with pops of color and personality
By Cathy Cassata
CTW Features
Image courtesy Store It! (Filipacchi Publishing, 2009)
College students do it so why can't you? Find inexpensive and stylish décor like the pros do - put yourself in the shoes of America's future and get ready to shop.
Stay Savvy with Space
Before you delve too much into décor, Marcia Connors, co-owner of Growing Space Interior Design, in Canton, Mass., says to evaluate each room and take advantage of every inch of storage space. "Think about what you need to store and how big the storage places need to be," she says. "Then organize under-bed storage, drawers, closets and walls accordingly." Keep in mind retail stores that offer a variety of container options. "You'll find many choices for all spaces in different sizes, colors and prints."
Add Personality with Color
No matter how much money you spend on decorating, color is always an easy, inexpensive way to bring in your personality. While Jamie Gibbs, owner of Jamie Gibbs and Associates in New York City, says to buy big items in neutrals, Connors suggests exploring with color for accents. "Take one or two of your favorite colors and use several shades of that color so you're surrounded by colors you love," she says. If you like white walls, Connors suggests adding accessories in bright colors within the same tone. Gibbs notes, "Go with trend and accent colors in small items so they can easily be replaced." For added color, Gibbs says to remember to hang pictures and posters.
Shop 'Til you Drop[heading]
If you're trying to quickly decorate your place for a reasonable price, Gibbs says to consider chain retail stores. "The 'some assembly required' furniture available today is much easier to assemble than it was a few years ago," he notes. "Plus, bamboo and other rather inexpensive, but quality materials, have revolutionized the budget furniture industry and many of these products are now sophisticated looking and 'green.'"
Connors adds: "If you're spending less on these items, you'll probably be more likely to change them up as trends change." Gibbs agrees. "Coordinated collections can give a very slick and trendy look because each season stores that sell these items coordinate their colors, textures, and finishes."
Show Off Your Hobbies
College students aren't the only ones who like to flaunt their interests. "Whether you're into flowers, dolls, fishing or music, you can display your interests as a focal point of any room," Connors notes.