Filed under Decorating on September 17th, 2008:
College Décor To Ditch After You Graduate
In case you didn’t know, ‘to graduate’ also means ‘to move up in position or level’. So now that you’ve graduated college, your décor needs to move up as well.
Ideally, you’ve already made arrangements to move out of your college apartment and have begun exploring Fayetteville apartments. In support of this positive move, here are some apartment decorating tips for the graduate who is ready to move up and out of their college dorm:
Trade in the Old Futon
Distance yourself from your dingy college hand-me-down furniture. That old, used furniture that has supported your weight through your all-night study sessions has served its purpose and is ready to be handed down to the next young undergrads. It’s your turn to say goodbye to that dorm room futon and hello to a new or gently used couch.
If it’s the cost that is your big hang-up, don’t worry. You don’t have to buy new, you can pick up used furniture, but consider budgeting some money for it and making sure it is clean and presentable. If nothing else, make sure to purchase a nice slipcover for the sofa you buy.
Add Class with Appropriate Wall Decor
Those posters that have been pinned onto your wall in college are also on the chopping block. You know the ones… the Animal House poster, the beer slogan posters, the Greek posters; take down your posters or at least upgrade them. You can still keep the more acceptable of these posters as long as you make them look presentable. Buy framed for them at a local frame shop. You won’t believe how quickly framing will turn posters from trashy to eclectic in a heartbeat.
To fill up some additional wall space, get your hands on some artwork from friends or local artists. You can often get some nice, original pieces from friends and acquaintances for less money than you think.
Update Your Kitchen Gear
Finally, revamp your kitchen with some actual kitchenware. Pick up a few basic cooking utensils and you’ll be much more likely to begin making wholesome meals. While you’re at it, throw out that mishmash of dishes and utensils and pick up complete set of matching kitchenware. It doesn’t need to be a big set, even four of each place setting will do, but it will make your table top presentable when you invite family or a significant other over.
Remember, while college living is often transitory and impermanent, post college life is about establishing yourself as a full-fledged adult. Begin to build your new apartment with these simple tips and watch as you move up and out of your old college habits.