For young adults used to
living in their parents' home, with a large den, a
spacious kitchen and a bedroom with tons of closet
space, moving to a dorm or their first apartment means
adapting to a new living style and embracing the idea
of combining many rooms into just one or two small
spaces.
IKEA, the leading home furnishings retailer, offers simple solutions and ideas
about how to feel at home, even without all of the rooms that they may be accustomed
to.
The Den
With limited space, an easy way to duplicate the comfort and relaxation of
a den is with plenty of pillows. Big and small pillows in different colors
and textures are a fun and comfortable way for friends to sprawl out and get
cozy while hanging out. When not in use, the pillows can be piled up in a corner
of the room or even on a bed so another function can take center stage.
The Bedroom
It's always a bonus when it's possible to get two uses out of one item. A futon
or sofa bed is the most functional furnishing for any college student, especially
in a small living environment. When it's time to go to bed, the sofa opens
up, converting the room from living room to bedroom. And visiting guests will
appreciate not having to sleep on the floor.
The Kitchen
It's important to have an area in your space that can serve as a kitchen. Storage
bins can be used for canned and non-perishable goods and the top surface to
stack plates, silverware or even a small microwave. Use wall space to hang
pots and pans out of the way and a shelf for paper goods, mugs and other kitchen
items that can cause clutter. Also, using a half table that can be placed flush
against a wall is an ideal space saver with multiple functions including eating,
studying and even a late night poker game.
The Closet
It may be a "culture shock" for some who are used to lots of closets
at home and now have to either share one with a roommate or squeeze everything
they own into a closet one tenth the size of their old one. To ensure that
the closet isn't overflowing into your living space, invest in clear storage
boxes so items can be easily identified; covered bins to hide away private
articles you may not want exhibited to the world; and stacking containers to
make the closet seem double the size and hold twice as much.
Small space living in a dorm or apartment can be fun and stylish. For more
information, solutions and ideas about how to affordably decorate your home
away from home, go to www.ikea-us.com or call 1-800-434-4532. Courtesy of ARA
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