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Tiles lemon yellow duvet covers, $120-$160 at Union Home
Tiles lemon yellow duvet covers, $120-$160 at Union Home

Seven Chicago Stores for Affordable Dorm Furniture

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Tiles lemon yellow duvet covers, $120-$160 at Union Home

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For college kids, space is limited, and so is budget. What's a freshman (or sophomore, or junior...) to do? You can't buy everything from Target and Ikea—well, actually you could, but who wants to do that? Instead, here are some affordable stores with the kind of decor that'll make any economy-sized dormitory feel like a penthouse suite.—Taneisha Jordan


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Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process.

Paramour Bungalow

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David Kafer and Jason Hall, who created Red 7 Salon, developed a store with a diverse selection of tchotchkes and hand-crafted accessories. Though that’s not the store’s main focus, you can be sure to find anything you need.

Found Vintage Living

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This Andersonville storefront specializes in items from the 1950s, 60s and 70s, but don’t think of this place for your typical blow-up chair and kitschy lava lamps. Surprisingly, the vintage offerings stand the test of time. If you’re in search of a smooth, lacquered coffee table, gilded owl lamps at a reasonable price, or sleek glassware, then step on in.

The Brown Elephant

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A Chicago favorite, this resale shop has plenty of furniture to choose from. Flaunting both vintage and modern pieces, there’s something for everyone here. Tip: The location in Andersonville has the best selection and the turnover is daily.

Brimfield

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Crisp tartan plaid pillows, ships in bottles and repurposed antique home décor abound in this Andersonville location. Brimfield’s charm comes from that classic mid-20th century foyer-feel. You’ll spend hours trying to decide how much you need. Short answer: All of it.

Affordable Portables

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If you angle that TV stand just enough, you might be able to fit one chair in your room. Shouldn’t it be a chair that looks as good as it is comfortable? Affordable Portables has many options to choose from without breaking the bank. Plus, they offer delivery so you won’t have to lug it up yourself.
Unison Home curates items from independent artists to create one-of-a-kind bedding, throws and kitchen linens.

Judy Maxwell

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Described as a modern general store, this quirky midtown spot holds marquee lights, talking action figures and T-Rex phones. Fun fact: There are several store mascots, including Wilbur the shop pig. Yup… pig.

Paramour Bungalow

David Kafer and Jason Hall, who created Red 7 Salon, developed a store with a diverse selection of tchotchkes and hand-crafted accessories. Though that’s not the store’s main focus, you can be sure to find anything you need.

Found Vintage Living

This Andersonville storefront specializes in items from the 1950s, 60s and 70s, but don’t think of this place for your typical blow-up chair and kitschy lava lamps. Surprisingly, the vintage offerings stand the test of time. If you’re in search of a smooth, lacquered coffee table, gilded owl lamps at a reasonable price, or sleek glassware, then step on in.

The Brown Elephant

A Chicago favorite, this resale shop has plenty of furniture to choose from. Flaunting both vintage and modern pieces, there’s something for everyone here. Tip: The location in Andersonville has the best selection and the turnover is daily.

Brimfield

Crisp tartan plaid pillows, ships in bottles and repurposed antique home décor abound in this Andersonville location. Brimfield’s charm comes from that classic mid-20th century foyer-feel. You’ll spend hours trying to decide how much you need. Short answer: All of it.

Affordable Portables

If you angle that TV stand just enough, you might be able to fit one chair in your room. Shouldn’t it be a chair that looks as good as it is comfortable? Affordable Portables has many options to choose from without breaking the bank. Plus, they offer delivery so you won’t have to lug it up yourself.

Unison

Unison Home curates items from independent artists to create one-of-a-kind bedding, throws and kitchen linens.

Judy Maxwell

Described as a modern general store, this quirky midtown spot holds marquee lights, talking action figures and T-Rex phones. Fun fact: There are several store mascots, including Wilbur the shop pig. Yup… pig.