This is especially true if you’re living on your own for the first time, as it’s often at this point that you may come to the realization that your newly rented place isn’t as big as you thought it would be when you began thinking about life as a college student.

However, as interior designers indicate, an apartment space that’s lacking elbow room doesn’t have to seem so small.

Brenda Dillon, vice president of merchandising for North American furniture retailer Ashley Furniture, said this is where you can identify your sense of self through ingenuity.

“Small spaces like dorm rooms actually require more careful planning than much larger ones,” said Dillon. “But with a few good choices and a lot of creativity, you can turn an undersized suite into an efficient, stylish space.”

Use furniture that promotes spaciousness

One of the ways you can make an apartment appear larger than it is in actuality is by purchasing or bringing furniture from home that makes a space look more open. This is often achieved through table tops that are see-through and that have narrow legs. Other furniture – such as couches and lounge chairs, should ideally be lightweight. This not only makes them easier to transport, but gives the space a more youthful, fresh feel, Ashley Furniture indicates.

Furniture should be able to be used in more than one way

Another way to open up confined quarters is simply by furnishing the apartment with fewer things. Instead, the furniture that is brought should be multi-faceted. For instance, a dining chair can double as a space for using at a desk or as more seating room next to the sofa. Coffee tables with a lift-top can have dual usage by being used as a space for work and studies as well as a place for eating. Additionally, loft beds are ideal for apartment renters, as many often have desks that can be tucked away or folded out, depending on the day or whether you’re working, sleeping or just need a quick power nap.

Keep storage space in mind

Storage capability is something else to be cognizant of, as you may have a lot of things you brought from home that you anticipate you’ll need over the semester. However, given small living conditions, you may have to rent out a storage space to fit everything. This doesn’t have to be, however, if you look for furnishings that have extra shelves and storage, the furniture retailer recommends. Bookshelves may be optimized to fit as many books and textbooks as possible. Desks are often replete with multiple drawers in varying sizes so they can accommodate various knick-knacks or more expensive items.

Enhance unit with stylish adornments

Accessorizing a space may be the most important aspect of decorating an apartment. Simple things like pillows, lamps, shades and rugs can add to the apartment’s overall feel and give it a more clean, customized look.

However, accessorizing a unit – whether it’s with inexpensive furniture or high-ticket items like a high definition television – can come at a significant cost if belongings are stolen or destroyed. You may want to consider purchasing renters insurance, which are affordable and provide protection in the event of an emergency. Insuring your first apartment can help set the tone for the school year, one where you’re prepared for various challenges should they arrive.