An interior design blog with furniture reviews, interior decorating tips, DIY projects, and home furniture guides.

Archive for the ‘College-Dorm-Room’ Category

Back to School Bags

Wednesday, August 12th, 2009

Back to School Special: Bags, Backpacks, Wallets and Laptop Cases

Now that school is just around the corner, if you happen to be going back in the fall, or you have children that will be, you may need to replace a beaten and worn backpack or invest in a new laptop case for college. No matter what kind of bag or bag accessory you’re looking for, http://www.luggaeselect.com/ has exactly what you’re looking for when school rolls around! Take a look at these funky, youthful options for back to school:

Backpacks
The number one feature you should look for in a backpack? Comfort! Thankfully, modern day backpacks can be both stylish and comfortable. How do you determine what style of backpack you need? It all depends on what you’ll be carrying. For example, if you plan to have a selection of textbooks, notebooks, plus your laptop in your backpack, you’ll need a backpack with lumbar (lower back) support and possibly wheels and a handle if it gets too heavy to carry on your back. Check out the following examples of different backpacks:

Rolling
Travelers Club Adventure 18 Inch Rolling Backpack
To relieve stress off your back, try a rolling backpack. Like a suitcase, they feature rolling castors and a pull-out handle to easily transport an extremely heavy load around.

S-Curve
California Pak S Curve 18" Lightweight Backpack
Backpack straps with an “S” shape to them are ergonomically designed to evenly distribute weight throughout your shoulders and back, reducing pressure.

Padded
Samsonite Los Angeles Backpack
Most backpacks made today feature padded handles, back panels, and shoulder straps to reduce pressure in the shoulders and back. Padding is essential for elementary/high school students who go to school five times a week and need a comfortable backpack.

Expandable
Olympia Academy Backpack
If your backpack contents vary throughout the day, why not try an expandable option? They normally have front panels that zipper open to allow more room inside.

Laptop
Sumdex Decode Print Design 15" Backpack
If you’ve got a laptop, it should have its own compartment in your backpack to keep it separated and safe from other items.

Messenger Bags
Once made just for bike messengers, the messenger bag is now considered a stylish way to tote around your belongings. When wearing a messenger bag, it’s important to make sure you have the strap diagonally across your chest, instead of hanging off one shoulder. If it’s constantly being slung from your shoulder, you have the potential to negatively impact your spine.

Laptop
Sumdex Alti-Pac Laptop Messenger
Laptops are ideal fits for messenger bags, because they have a bigger compartment to slide into. Look for bags with plenty of pockets and separation to set apart your laptop.

Leather
Winn International Messenger Pro Messenger Bag
For a durable bag that’s super stylish, try a leather messenger back. It will last and last, as long as you take care of it properly, and black leather never goes out of fashion.

Water-repellent
Sumdex MSB Medium Messenger
To protect the inside of your bag from water damage, a water-repellent shell will shield your items from the rain and other elements.

Laptop Cases
If a slot in your backpack or messenger back isn’t enough to protect your expensive laptop, or you just want to carry it by itself, a laptop case is a good idea. It further protects your laptop from any damage, using polyester or polycarbonate lining that protects it from moisture or impact. Cases can be lines with memory foam or air pockets to reduce pressure on contact. Make sure you know the measurements of your computer to find a laptop case that matches its size. Check out these different sized options from Sumdex Inc.:

12”
Sumdex ImpactGuard 12" Computer Sleeve

13”
Sumdex Impulse Fashion Place 13" Compufolio

15”
Sumdex NeoMetro Transit II

15.4”
Sumdex DigiPod 15.4" Compact Computer Sleeve

17”
Sumdex ImpactGuard 17" Computer Sleeve

Wallets
The first thing you should consider when finding a new wallet is what you’ll be putting in it. Do you have a lot of cards? Find a wallet with plenty of card slots to accommodate the ones you have. Do you always have change on you? Look for a wallet with a large change slot. The material of the wallet should be as strong as possible. Wallets have the potential to get worn easily, so don’t settle for a wallet made from cheap material.

Bi-Fold (Compact)
Moonsus Signature Large Compact Wallet in Mocha
With more room for cards, bills, and coins, bi-fold wallets that fold horizontally will not only store everything, but keep your bills unfolded as well. However, they are not as small as other wallets, so you’ll most likely not be able to keep it in your pocket.

Bi-Fold (Hipster)
Winn International High Polished Cowhide Aniline Leather Pass Case Wallet
If you want a compacted wallet that folds outwards, try a bi-fold wallet that goes width wise, called a hipster. If you don’t mind your cash being folded in half, and less change space, you can go with a hipster. It will definitely be able to fit in your pocket.

Tri-Fold
Wildkin Polka Dots Wallet
The most compact of wallets, tri-folds are normally constructed of durable polyester or nylon that’s built to take the constant folding. If you don’t normally carry change and only have a few cards, this is the option for you.

Sorry for the missing back to school bags pictures but I will update that soon!

Nicolette Interior Design Diva

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in College-Dorm-Room | No Comments »

Dorm Decor

Saturday, August 1st, 2009

Fun and Funky Dorm Room Decor

Why would you want your dorm room to look stiff and boring? Your dorm room should be a representation of you – when you have guests in your room, you want to show off your unique personality in your dorm’s decor design. Making it as fun and funky as possible not only keeps things amusing while you decorate, it will make you want to come home to your dorm and spend time there because of its positive vibe.

Here are some unique pieces for your dorm room that will really make you smile:

Futons

Black FutonFeaturing a front-loading mechanism so you won’t have to move it away from the wall, the Strata Furniture Carriage Lambton Black Futon is easy to convert to a bed – and is visually appealing too, with its black finish and woven-arm look.

Wood Futon FrameIf you’d prefer an armless model, try the Night and Day Furniture Eureka Rosewood Cherry Wood Futon Frame. The rich red in the cherry wood finish is a twist on the normal, standard brown wood finishing.

Bifold FutonThe sleek and modern look of the Lifestyle Solutions Fashion Hardwood Barbados Convertible Bifold Futon will give your dorm room a fashionable look. It also has built in storage for books or magazines.

Retro FutonHave some fun with the Homelegance Upholstered Convertible Retro Futon in Violet Red. Upholstered in soft, smooth microfiber, this futon has comfort and style written all over it.

 

Bedding

Duvet Cover SetManor Hill offers a selection of bright and bold bedding that will suit a funky dorm room. The Branches Mini Duvet Cover Set in Spice Red will definitely attract attention with its deep red colour and contrasting white branch pattern,

Manor Hill Duvet Coverwhile the black and white Manor Hill Duvet Cover Set in Black has a geometrical, retro-inspired look to it.

Flower Duvet CoverOr, you can try different styles from Nygard. Their Home Batik Flower Duvet Cover has a unique colour combination of aqua and brown, as well as a gorgeous flower pattern.

Dorm BeddingThe Dorm Bedding from Home Chelsea Duvet Cover combines dark chocolate and white for a bold duvet cover that will surely get noticed.

 

Bean Bags

Microsuede Bean Bag ChairWhy not add some extra seating to your room with bean bags? The Jaxx Pillow Sac Microsuede Bean Bag Chair is super soft and comfy, and makes a great spot for guests to hang out. You can even sit down, relax, and study your textbooks on it.

Oversized Beanbag ChairChoose from seven different colour finishes with the Extra Large Oversized Beanbag Chair – you’ll get a customized look and a super soft place to sit with memory foam!

Funky Beanbag ChairThe uniquely designed Sitting Bull Fashion Bag Wave Funky Bean Bag Chair is guaranteed to make a fashion statement in your dorm room!

Large Beanbag ChairRemember what it was like to be a kid with the Ace Bayou Large Bean Bag Chair in Shiny Purple. The vinyl upholstery is shiny, youthful, and easy to clean, which is a bonus!

 

Lights

Light SpheresAlthough Davya International has made these lights for the outdoors, how cool would they look in your dorm room? Their 8 Globe Light Spheres can be hung around your ceiling trim,

String Lightsor you can string their String Lights around your door or window frame.

Contemporary LightingAnother option is to add some track lighting to your dorm’s ceiling. ELK Lighting has some really funky examples, such as the Milan Vertical Ascending Pendant Track, with its blue marble glass shade.

Elk LightingYou can also try the Mela Vertical Ascending Pendant Track with lantern-shaped shades in green and orange.

Don’t be afraid to show off your personality in your dorm room! Need help, tight dorm decor budget let me know I can help you pick the perfect decor!

Nicolette Interior Design Diva 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in College-Dorm-Room | 2 Comments »

Dorm Room Design

Sunday, July 5th, 2009

Cheap Dorm Room Designs

Whether you’re attending college or university, you’re going to be spending about two thirds of your year in your own dorm room. You need a Dorm Room Design that is practical, cheap and expresses who you are!

It should be a place for you to relax, study, and entertain – just like your bedroom at home.

Of course, you have a much smaller space to work with, and a student’s budget, so the idea of decorating your dorm room may seem challenging – especially if you have a roommate.

Just remember to get together with your roommate before you move in and decide on a design style together.

You can design your dorm room with inexpensive, yet fun & funky pieces if you get creative and think outside the box!

The first piece to consider is your sleeping space – what kind of bed should you choose for your dorm room? If you like the idea of a couch by day and a bed by night, you can opt for a futon or a convertible bed.

Cheap FutonThe Elite Products – Mali-Flex Futon Frame and Mattress Set in Coal-Pewter futon comes with its own mattress and its arms fold out to transform from a loveseat to a bed. For something with a little more flair,

Convertible Futontry the Lifestyle Solutions Fashion Hardwood Dio Convertible Futon in Java. The unique horizontal slats in the arms make the futon a cool focal point. A convertible bed is different from a futon simply because of its folding method – they normally have a click-clack function that moves them into a sleeping position.

Contemporary FutonThe Lifestyle Solutions Casual Convertibles Capitola Sofa Bed has a neat modern shape and comes in three different colours.

Modern FutonYou can also select the Homelegance Upholstered Convertible Sleeper Sofa Futon in Violet Red for a modern look in your dorm room.

Study Desk Loft Bunk BedAnother sleeping space option is a funky loft bed. The Powell Monster Bedroom® Twin Study Loft Bunk Bed raises your bed up high and gives you space underneath for a desk or media center – it’s an awesome space saver!

Once you choose a piece for your dorm room to sleep on, you’ll need some dorm bedding that reflects your personal style.

If you’re going to have a futon in your room, you may want to consider a futon cover. They come in so many colours, patterns, and textures, so you won’t have a problem expressing your design style.

Tiffany Futon CoverTry the SIS Covers Tiffany Futon Cover,

Black Futon Coverthe Elite L.X.E. Coal & Royalty Slip Cover,

Navy Blue Futon Coveror the Lifestyle Solutions Navy Futon Cover to make a bold statement with your futon.

Asian Pattern Duvet CoverAnother way to stand out is by using a fashionable duvet. The Daniadown Tokyo Duvet Cover

Floral Duvet Coveror the Nygård Home Ascot Duvet Cover are great options for giving a fun design aspect to your dorm room.

Decorate your sleeping space with a few throw pillows – it will keep things comfy and stylish at the same time.

Boudoir PillowThe Mystic Valley Traders Cafe Aqua Boudoir Pillow,

Neck PillowMystic Valley Traders Cafe Cherry Neckroll Pillow, or

Rolled Round PillowMystic Valley Traders Arboretum Sprout Bolster Pillow allow you to spruce up your dorm room on a budget.

Next, you’ll want to focus on storage space. Space is obviously tight in dorm rooms, so it’s essential for you to use every inch of room for your items.

Rolling Clothes RackMake use of your closet with the Organize It All Chrome Garment Rolling Rack Laundry Center – it can easily be rolled out of your closet at any time, and has three separate hampers for your laundry, so it will be easier to get your clothes cleaned.

Closet OrganizerYou can also store the Organize It All Concord 3 Tier Storage Closet Organizer Cart in your closet and use the drawers for clothes, makeup, toiletries, or shoes. If you want to make use of your corner space,

Storage Shelfthe Organize It All Devant Three Tier Corner Closet Organizer in Silver fits there easily and is a great place for your books, movies, or CDs. Make use of your wall space

Coat Rack Hookand install the Safco PanelMate® Wall Coat Rack Hook (Set of 6) – you can use it for jackets, scarves, or towels.

Your dorm room workspace is one of the most important features in your dorm room – you’re going to need a functional place to do homework and study for exams.

Computer WorkstationThe Safco MÜV Extra Wide Workstation in Medium Oak has three racks for holding your laptop and any other study tools.

Cherry Student Dorm DeskThe Leda Student Desk with Student Chair in Medium cherry is even smaller and takes up less space.

College Dorm Size DeskAnother option is the stylish Mylex Furniture Metal and Wood Student Desk.

Ergonmic Office ChairYou don’t want your office chair to take up a lot of precious space in your dorm room, so any armless options such as the Boss Office Products Adjustable Black Leather Deluxe Posture Chair,

Armless Office ChairOffices to Go Armless Task Chair, or the OFM Vinyl Computer Posture Task Chair will take up less room.

You’ll want to keep things organized in your workspace, so consider putting up a cork board or dry erase board.

Cork BoardThe Spartak Cork Board

Dry Erase Boardor the Safco Clear Acrylic Dry Erase Board (Set of 5) are handy for putting up notes, writing down your schedule, or displaying pictures or ticket stubs.

Finally, it’s time to decorate! Adding fun accessories to your dorm really sets it apart from the other rooms.

Faux Leopard Skin RugThrow down an accent rug like the Fun Rugs Supreme Collection Leopard Skin Rug,

Black Lightput up a funky modern wall light Kenroy Home Burst Black Finish 1 Light Small Round Wall Lantern,

Drapesand hang up some patterned drapes Kathy Ireland Home by Thank You Baby The Sweetie Blue Dots Drapes.

Just because your living space is temporary doesn’t mean it has to be boring and generic!

Infuse your personality into your dorm room design, so when you invite your new friends over to hang out, they get to see the real you carried out in your room’s style.

Need help decorating your dorm room,  just send me your budget, dorm room dimensions and design style and lets see what we can come up with!

Nicolette Interior Design Diva

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in College-Dorm-Room | 3 Comments »