Minneapolis St. Paul, MN, August 24, 2026 —

As students prepare for a new academic year, the challenge of fitting a functional and comfortable living space into a compact dorm room is a common concern. Katie Robertson, an interior designer with Oakmere House, has provided practical advice for students looking to make the most of their limited square footage.

Robertson’s recommendations focus on multi-functional items and smart storage solutions. Key items suggested for maximizing small dorm spaces include:

  • Bedrest pillows: These can help create a more comfortable lounging area on the bed, transforming it into a makeshift sofa.
  • Compact fan: Essential for air circulation in small, often poorly ventilated rooms.
  • Decor: Personal touches can make a space feel more like home, but should be chosen carefully to avoid clutter.
  • Bath caddy: Useful for transporting toiletries to and from communal bathrooms, keeping items organized and dry.
  • Shower shoes: A hygiene essential for shared bathroom facilities.
  • Extension cords: Dorm rooms often have limited outlets, making extension cords a necessity for powering multiple devices.
  • Power bank: Provides on-the-go charging for electronics when away from the dorm.
  • Speaker: For entertainment and relaxation.
  • Laundry bag on wheels: Simplifies the process of transporting laundry to and from the laundry room, especially for students living in upper floors or far from facilities.

The advice from Robertson emphasizes practicality and efficient use of space, aiming to help students create a more organized and livable environment within the constraints of typical dorm accommodations. By selecting items that serve multiple purposes or aid in organization, students can enhance their dorm room experience.



Story summarized from the original created by Ernst, Ava on kstp.com, see more information here.

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