We know that financial constraints can make it difficult to create the perfect living space. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you transform your living room into a cozy and stylish area without breaking the bank. From affordable decor to clever DIY projects, we have plenty of tips and tricks to help you create a space that feels like home. So, whether you’re living in a dorm or off-campus apartment, read on for some budget-friendly inspiration that will make your living room the envy of all your friends.
We share college apartment living room ideas on a budget
1. Thrift store finds
Consider checking out thrift stores and online marketplaces for affordable second-hand furniture and decor! Not only can you find unique pieces that add character to your home, but you’ll also be doing your part in reducing waste and giving new life to pre-loved items. With a little patience and persistence, you never know what amazing finds you might stumble upon!
2. DIY Wall Art
Looking to add a personal touch to your home decor? Why not try your hand at creating your own wall art? With just a few simple materials like canvas, paint, or inexpensive frames, you can create a unique piece of art that reflects your personal style.
3. Cozy Throw Pillows
Consider investing in some cozy throw pillows and cushion covers! Not only do they add a pop of color and style to your home, but they also provide an extra level of comfort when lounging on your couch or bed. With the wide range of affordable options available, it’s easy to switch up your decor to match the season or your mood.
4. Floor Pillows
Floor pillows and poufs are a great way to add extra seating options for guests in your living room. Not only are they comfortable and versatile, but they also add a cozy and relaxed vibe to your space. You can easily move them around to create different seating arrangements or use them as footrests.
5. String Lights
String lights are a perfect way to add a warm and cozy ambiance to the living room. Plus, they’re easy to install and can be hung just about anywhere, making them a versatile and affordable option for anyone looking to add some extra charm to their living space.
6. Multi-Purpose Furniture
Consider investing in furniture that serves multiple functions, such as a futon or a storage ottoman. A futon can be used as a bed at night and a sofa during the day, while a storage ottoman can serve as a footrest, seating, and storage. With multi-purpose furniture, you can make the most out of your living space without sacrificing style or comfort.
7. DIY coffee table
A DIY coffee table is a fantastic way to add a touch of personality to your living room without breaking the bank. Rather than buying a generic table from a furniture store, repurpose old wooden crates or pallets to create a unique and rustic piece that will be a great conversation starter. With a little creativity and some basic tools, you can transform old, unused materials into a beautiful and functional coffee table.
8. Washi Tape decor
With its colorful and patterned designs, washi tape allows you to create unique and personalized patterns or designs that suit your taste and style. Simply apply the tape in straight lines or curves to create stripes, geometric shapes, or even letters and words. The best part? You can easily remove and replace the tape without leaving any residue or damage, making it perfect for renters or those who like to change things up frequently.
9. Temporary Wallpaper
Just like washi tape, temporary wallpaper is a fantastic solution if you want to add a bit of personality to your space without committing to a permanent change. You can use removable wallpaper to create a beautiful accent wall with texture or patterns that will transform any room in your house.
10. DIY Book shelf
Building a bookshelf doesn’t have to be a complicated project. In fact, you can easily create a simple and sturdy bookshelf using just cinder blocks and wooden planks. First, decide on the size of your bookshelf and gather the necessary materials. You’ll need enough cinder blocks to make two vertical towers, with one block on top of another, and enough wooden planks to lay across the top of the cinder blocks. Once you have your materials, arrange the cinder blocks in a vertical position and place the wooden planks across the top of each pair of blocks. You can stack as many planks as you’d like on top of the cinder blocks to create multiple shelves. This DIY bookshelf is not only practical, but also a fun and creative way to add a unique touch to your room.
11. Upcycled decor
Upcycling is an environmentally friendly way to give a second life to household items that would otherwise end up in a landfill. One popular way to upcycle is by repurposing glass jars as candle holders or vases. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy ambiance with candles or display a beautiful bouquet of flowers, upcycled decor is a great way to add some personality to your home while reducing your environmental impact.
12. Indoor plants
Whether you opt for affordable houseplants or low-maintenance faux plants, plants bring life to any room without breaking the bank or requiring excessive upkeep. Not only do indoor plants add a beautiful aesthetic to your home decor, but they also purify the air and provide a sense of calm and relaxation.
13. Washable slipcovers
Washable slipcovers are a fantastic way to keep your furniture looking and feeling clean and fresh. These covers are designed to be easily removable and machine-washable, which is perfect for busy households like college apartments. By using washable slipcovers, you can protect your furniture from spills, stains, and dirt, making it last longer and look better. No need to worry after a house party with friends.
14. Command hooks
Command hooks are an excellent solution for hanging lightweight decor and curtains without causing any damage. These hooks use a special adhesive that can stick to many surfaces without leaving any residue or marks. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can choose the perfect one to suit your needs. Simply clean the surface with rubbing alcohol, apply the hook, and wait an hour before hanging your decor or curtains.
15. Area dividers
If you’re looking to create some separation within your living space, using curtains or hanging sheets can be a great option. By installing a curtain or sheet divider, you can create a sense of privacy and separation between different areas of your home without the need for permanent walls or construction. Not only can this be a practical solution for those looking to maximize their space, but it can also be a stylish and affordable way to add some texture and visual interest to your living room.
16. Chalkboard wall
Chalkboard walls are a great way to add a fun and functional accent to any room. By painting one wall with chalkboard paint, you can create a surface that can be written on and erased as many times as you like. This is a perfect solution for those who enjoy jotting down notes, making to-do lists or just doodling. Plus, it provides a unique and stylish look that can be customized to fit any decor.
17. Removable Wall Decals
Removable wall decals are an easy and inexpensive way to add some personality to your home decor. Whether you want to create an accent wall or just add a pop of color, removable decals can help you achieve the look you want. One popular use for these decals is to add patterns or inspirational quotes to your walls.
18. Repurpose Wooden Pallets
Wooden pallets are a versatile and affordable material that can be repurposed into a variety of useful items for your home. One creative idea is to turn them into a stylish wall shelf or a TV stand.
Remember, a little creativity and DIY spirit can go a long way in transforming your college apartment’s living room into a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing space without breaking the bank.
Need more inspiration for a small living room? We share 15 small living room ideas.
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