This Bookstagrammer’s Bedroom Doubles as a Whimsical Library

Channeling the main character energy prevalent in so many of her favorite books, Delaware County Community College student Aza Akins curated mementos and thrifted items to give the bedroom in her shared apartment an eclectic, personalized touch.

All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

How did you find your apartment? I found it on an online listing. When I went to see it, I loved its location close to campus and the neighborhood’s walkability. It’s on the first floor, so it’s easy to bring in groceries and thrifted furniture pieces.

What do you like about your bedroom? When I first saw my room, I thought it was a bit small, but it’s been the perfect amount of space. I love the open layout and the amount of open floor space I have, even after bringing my furniture in. The walls are a milky gray color and they are much better than the standard beige dorm rooms I’m used to.

What is your space best known for? My book collection. When friends come over, we love to go through my book collection and look at our favorite quotes and scenes.

Describe your personal home style: Vintage, feminine, maximalist. I aim to make my home feel like the bedroom of the main character in a rom-com. Everything is a little messy, but in an organized way, and it feels romantic and warm.

What’s your favorite element in your room? My vintage French-style dresser. It’s solid wood and has its original paint. It brings a vintage flair to my room and it’s a unique piece that I’m so happy I found. I love the mix of modern and vintage elements in my room.

In an effort to remove the stigma associated with talking about money in college, we’re asking students to share how they plan and budget for their space.

How much does your housing cost per semester? $1,500

How much did it cost to decorate your room? $300

Biggest splurge? The most expensive thing I bought for my bedroom was a brand-new quilt. It was around $70. Everything else in my room I either already owned or purchased secondhand to save some money.

Best budget find? That French-style vintage dresser I mentioned — I found it at Goodwill for $15. It’s solid wood and in amazing condition.

What was your biggest challenge in this space, and how did you overcome it? The biggest challenge in my room was the lack of natural light. I only have one window in my bedroom, which I’m not used to. I have to rely on overhead lighting and lamps.

What’s your best tip for small-space living? Utilize storage under your bed and in your closet. If there’s empty space anywhere, use it. Storage bins and decorative boxes are ways to hide clutter while making your space look pretty. I recommend thrifting to all college students because it allows you to find unique and cool pieces on a budget.

How did you make your space feel personal to you? I’ve made the space my own by turning the walls into a scrapbook of sorts by posting all kinds of postcards and quotes onto the walls. I have lots of vintage artwork I’ve collected from thrift stores, and a poster from one of my favorite classic movies. It’s the small details that make this room feel like my own, such as the gold flower-detailed mirror I thrifted a few months ago that I’ve placed above my desk, or the dainty floral quilt on my bed. It’s the perfect cross between a teenage girl’s room and a 20-something’s bedroom. It’s my favorite place to be. 

This submission’s responses were edited for length and clarity.

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