Decorating your new apartment or dorm on a student-sized budget can be a difficult task. But you can have a space all your friends will envy at little expense to your wallet and your time. All you need is a little organization and the right advice.
Kenneth Brown knows a thing or two about interior design. The 1995 alumnus and Baton Rouge native is the host of HGTV’s “reDesign,” which transforms typical rooms into stunning living spaces for his clients.
He now operates his own design company based in both Baton Rouge and Los Angeles, combining gracious, modern living with southern comfort flair.
“Interesting fabrics and accessories, used simply and effectively, are his fuss-free signature,” said intern Cindy Tiek of Kenneth Brown Design.
Brown knows that not everyone can afford a complete home makeover like his clients, and he has tips and tricks to aid any student in their quest for a comfortable, well-organized living space.
The first step — storage.
Brown suggested utilizing the allotted space to its full potential, using storage pieces that are multi-functional, such as storage cubes that can serve “as an extra seat or nightstand.” He said this is “a perfect way to keep extra storage out of sight.”
Incorporating portable areas to store clutter, like trays, is also a quick hide-away trick, he said.
“Whether traditional wicker or modern lacquer,” he said, “trays provide much needed additional work surfaces that are moveable.”
For in-sight storage, he said plastic crates are the easiest, cheapest means of storage for any space. Brown said using decorative hat boxes instead of clunky boxes are one trendy alternative.
Interior design junior Lane Rapier maximizes her living space by using shelving and under-bed storage to keep clutter off the floor.
“If you live in a dorm, lofting your bed and putting your desk under it really helps clear out space,” she said.
And once everything is nicely stored, it’s time to focus on the walls, said interior design senior Sara Broussard.
Mirrors can make any room seem larger and won’t break the bank, she said.
“Mirrors reflect light and trick the eye into perceiving more depth than actually exists,” she said, “which opens up a space and makes it feel instantly larger.”
She suggested hanging three inexpensive, full-length mirrors — purchased at any home decor store — horizontally, one above the other.
Even if you live in a dorm, mirrors can be used to spice up your living space, Brown said, adding, “A mirror can act like an extra window in your dorm and help deflect light.”
Broussard recommended looking online for inspiration for inexpensive projects. Websites like instructables.com, craftzine.com and lifehacker.com are all excellent sources for easy DIY home improvement projects, she said.
“If you can get handy, you can have a great looking space,” she said.
