College Chic

January 23, 2025Written by: Shay Geyer

I recently had the pleasure of designing a bedroom for a long-time friend—a project close to my heart! Having collaborated with this wonderful family on previous projects, including her chic college dorm room, I was thrilled to take on her new space in an adorable off-campus home she shares with roommates. As the family behind Couture Lamps, one of our vendor partners at IBB, they understand the importance of exceptional design details. Naturally, we had access to the most fabulous lighting to elevate the space.

Here are four tips we used to create a stylish, functional, and personalized room for this college girl:

    1. Choose a Bold Color Palette:
      We began with a bright and energizing palette of sky blue and grassy green. These fresh hues bring a cheerful vibe to the room, perfect for a young, vibrant personality. We balanced the bold colors with crisp whites and warm wood tones to keep the space fresh and polished.
    2. Incorporate a Desk & Workspace:
      A college student needs a functional spot for studying, so we added a painted sky-blue desk and chair beside her bed. A glass top helps with durability on the painted surface. Task lighting from Couture Lamps not only ensures proper illumination, but also adds a touch of elegance. The workspace feels cohesive with the rest of the room and strikes the perfect balance between practicality and style.
    3. Optimize the Space for Functionality:
      We placed a pair of chic burl wood ottomans at the foot of the bed, offering extra seating for friends or roommates. A nightstand on one side of the bed provides easy access to essentials, while a four-door cabinet adds ample storage. Topped with a pair of Couture Lamps, the cabinet is both functional and stunning.
    4. Add Personal Touches:

To make the room feel uniquely hers, we styled the space with framed photos, school memorabilia, and sorority keepsakes. A stunning original piece of art serves as the centerpiece of the room, tying the color palette together while adding a sophisticated touch.

The result? A thoughtfully designed retreat that combines function, personality, and style—perfect for this next chapter in her college journey!