How to Maximize Space in a College Dorm – 4 Furniture Hacks

If you’re an incoming freshman who is moving on campus you will only have room for a few key pieces of furniture. You’ll be sharing around 200 square feet with at least one other person, so you don’t have a lot to work with.  This summary of cleverly designed stylish furniture will help you to make the most of your limited space. Here are 4 space-saving dorm room furniture hacks that will help you to live large in a small space. 

1. Do More With Less: Multifunctional Furniture

Multipurpose furniture is a great way to furnish your dorm. Multifunctional furniture saves space by integrating two or more functions into one piece of furniture eliminating the need for multiple pieces. Here are some of the best multifunctional and space-saving dorm furnishings money can buy. 

Ameriwood Home Rebel in 1 Media Dresser with Side Storage and Desk

Your desk is a place where you keep your laptop and do your schoolwork, but did you know that there are desks with drawers, shelves, a bookcase, a TV stand, and even a gaming system cubby? This media, dresser and desk combo has it all, making it an epic multifunctional, all-in-one space-saving solution. 

Cosco Stylaire Retro Chair and 2 Step Step Stool with Pull-Out Steps

Every dorm needs the classic combo of seating and a pull-out step stool. This chair step stool was built with comfort in mind. It has a cushioned seat and back and is comfortable even when sitting for long periods.  It’s great for everyday use or as extra seating for guests and the foldaway step stool will help you to get to those hard-to-reach high areas. The modern retro look of this timeless 1950s reproduction adds a splash of bold color that will liven up your dorm. 

DHP Euro Futon with Magazine Storage with Multiple Seating Positions

Multi-functional seating like futons are a convenient and stylish way to save space. In addition to the multiple seating function of a couch, this futon easily converts to a bed thanks to fold-down armrests. The armrests have storage pockets which are ideal for books, articles, or magazines. This modern-designed linen sleeper sofa comes in a wide variety of color options that make it the perfect addition for small space living.  

2. Choose Furniture with Built-in Storage

When space is at a premium extra storage is a must. This enables you to reduce clutter by stowing away items that you are not using. There are many uses for extra space including everything from storage for seasonal clothing, to an archive for old exams and papers. 

DHP Cambridge Upholstered Bed with Gas Lift Storage Compartment

One of the best ways to maximize storage is with under-bed compartments or storage drawers. You can get more storage, more space, and more style with this modern bed frame.  Access the large storage compartment with minimal effort thanks to a gas lift hydraulic mechanism that does the heavy lifting for you.  Whether you’re using it to store seasonal clothing or archive old exams and papers, this bed will give you tons of extra storage.  It has a stylish tufted headboard and footboard and is available in several colors and a range of finishes including velvet, linen, or faux leather. 

RealRooms Erika Rectangular Tufted Storage Ottoman with Cushioned Top

Ottomans with convenient storage space are ideal for dorms. In addition to a footrest and cushioned seating, easy-to-open hinges allow you to store your belongings in a hidden compartment.  Whether you use it to store extra blankets, books, or boots, this ottoman is an ideal addition to any dorm room.  It’s lightweight for easy handling and its classic, modern, and contemporary look features ultra-soft, tufted fabric, that comes in either black and vanilla (faux leather) or navy and grey (linen).

Novogratz Nora 3-Piece Pub Set with Faux Terrazzo Top

Take your crib to the next level with a space-saving pub set that is the ultimate in multi-function furniture.  This slim construction, compact-designed pub set will turn your dorm into one of the coolest destinations on campus.  It’s ideal for eating or entertaining, and the padded cushioned stools offer comfortable additional seating that can be conveniently tucked underneath the table when not in use.  There are even 3 side shelves to meet your storage needs. This edgy contemporary pub set is constructed of faux terrazzo with a brass metal frame.

3. Opt for Folding Furniture that Stores Away

Folding furniture is a great small space-friendly furniture option. Stools and tables are some of the most practical folding furniture and they are great to have on hand when guests arrive. Because they fold flat, they are also easy to store when not in use.

Cosco 24 Inch Vinyl Padded Folding Stool

A stool is a multipurpose piece of furniture that is perfect for small space living. Whether you use it to grab a bit to eat or as additional seating for guests, this vinyl padded folding stool is easy to unfold or fold when not in use. It is both portable and lightweight, so you can carry it with you wherever you go.  It’s double-braced and manufactured using durable steel. The design is sleek and compact, and the sophisticated all-black color will match any décor.

Cosco Multi-Functional, Adjustable, Personal Folding Activity Table

A collapsible table is a must-have item for small space dorm living either for personal use or for entertaining guests. It’s perfect for food, drinks, or homework assignments and when it’s not needed the legs fold flat into the tabletop for easy storage.  Its height can be adjusted and it is lightweight and easy to carry so it’s also well suited to outdoor use like tailgate parties. The polypropylene top and a powder-coated steel frame make this table a durable addition that you will be able to use long after your dorm days are done.

Ameriwood Home Arleta Swivel Craft Desk and Workbench with Storage

A homework station with swiveling shelves is the perfect addition to your dorm.  This compact workspace can hold your laptop and printer and it comes with tons of storage including 6 open shelves and 2 behind a cabinet door.  The left 3 shelves can swivel in and out to create a movable compact workspace.  The wheels on the swiveling desk make this homework station movable. The clean white finish will fit into any space, and it will give your dorm an open, airy feel. 

4. Look for Compact Space Saving Furniture

In a dorm compact furniture is key because it takes up less space. Two of the most useful compact furniture items for dorms are TV stands and lockers. 

Ameriwood Home Galaxy Modern TV Stand with Mount for TVs up to 65 Inch

Stream your favorite show in style with a cutting- edge, modern stylish TV stand. This flush mount compact TV stand incorporates 2 large shelves to store components and gaming consoles, DVDs and books. Cords are kept organized and out of view with a wire management system in the center spine. The sleek finish enhances the clean lines and contemporary style, and it goes with any color scheme or room décor.

RealRooms Shadwick Metal Lockers

A locker is the perfect storage solution for your dorm. The 4 shelves are ideal for storing books, papers, syllabi, board games or even cleaning supplies. The door features a lock to secure personal items, or perhaps even coveted snacks. This nostalgic modern storage solution is made of powder-coated metal and comes in a wide range of sizes and trendy color options. Its compact design and clean look make it a stylish and practical addition to your dorm.