Dual purpose design

Dear Debbie;

We are empty nesters and have decided to take in a student for the academic year, as we live close to the college and have the room. Any tips on planning a comfortable and welcoming space? Thanks for your ideas. ~ Marianne

Dear Marianne;

This is a great idea. Renting out student digs is a good way to stay connected to the young adult generation, and rooms are always in demand for students who move away from home to continue their education. Supply well thought-out necessities and allow the student to add a few personal touches to make it feel like home. The furnishings shown here are set up to serve more than one purpose, which is a practical space saver for any small room.

The bed gets lots of use, doing double duty for sleeping and as a lounge and often homework station, so select a good mattress. Futons are popular, but it’s more practical to have the bed raised from the floor so that baskets for clothes and supplies can slip underneath. Choose a table or desk with ample surface space for a computer, books and reference material. Set up the desk strategically beside the bed so that a good desk lamp will also work for reading in bed.

To save space, invest in a vertical storage system such as a metal storage locker as seen in this vignette from homesense. com. This stackable solution allows for separate compartments to hold sports equipment, notes, school supplies and clothing. Finally, an ottoman