Alright my man. Since you have such a low budget ($700) but don't want your apartment to look like crap, your best bet is going to be minimalism. You're in a great sub for minimalist inspiration. Take this recent post, for example. Not everyone was super impressed, but I'd say he did pretty good for a budget of $195. At the very least we can say with 100% certainty that it looks better than the average undergrad apartment.

I took the liberty of checking out the Halifax craigslist offerings and they are far and few between. However, I did find a potentially decent desk: see here. You might be able to haggle down the price a little with some luck. Otherwise, you might want to look at Amazon for desks (example 1 and example 2). For a desk chair, you could look at Amazon, but you might be better off going somewhere local (even if you go to Walmart) because you want to make sure a desk chair is going to be comfortable.

For a mattress, I'd again suggest Amazon. I'm just not sure you're going to find any better deals than what they have to offer. Mattress buying also involves a lot of personal preference, but "big box" mattress stores are incredibly overpriced. It seems that memory foam mattresses (such as this) are the most inexpensive, so I would look around Amazon to see what you think you'll like. I think I saw a mattress for as little as $99.^(though personally, I'm not sure I'd trust it...) Keep in mind that you will either need (a) a box spring and bed frame or (b) a platform bed in addition to the mattress. With your budget, a platform bed will probably be your best bet. You can even get one with a "headboard" for pretty cheap (the headboard will definitely up your apartment's style a little bit and keep it further away from "garbage apartment of undergrad" level): see here and here.

Alright, I'll break down what we've done so far. I'm in the US and don't know that much about Canadian dollars, so I'm doing this in USD - hopefully it's close:

• $150 for desk
  
• $50 for desk chair
  
• $180 for mattress
  
• $170 for bed frame
  
  That leaves you around $150 for other items. I assume you have basic human needs covered (bed sheets-do not sleep on a bare mattress!- and towels), so you could use this money for more furniture or for decor. I would probably try get some attractive and functional bedding (please do not get anything polyester!) in a minimalist pattern. Ikea is really unbeatable for this - see here and here. For a couch, I would either consider Amazon or start scouring Craigslist every day. I would probably forego a coffee table until you have other things that will improve your quality of life (dining chair/table, television, etc.); you really don't need one.
  
  Anyway, these are just a couple of suggestions. Hope this helps!
  
  

I live in a 230sqft studio and I have my bed on a FOLDABLE metal platform (https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Foldable-Platform-Under-Bed-Storage/dp/B073WRF565) , I also have it on risers so that I can put my storage bins underneath (ie extra blankets, winter gear, camping gear, etc) As for a mattress, I have a Nectar mattress. I also used to sleep on the floor lol I didn’t have any issues with it but it took up a lot of space that I didn’t have at my studio.

I have a couch that is also a futon for guests and it also came in a box so if I need to move again, I I could easily break it down to fit it in my hatchback. (https://www.amazon.com/Novogratz-Brittany-Sofa-Futon-Linen/dp/B01LY1WBQN) it looks expensive, a little on the firm side but still comfortable with the right pillows. I got it on prime day for $200 😅

I don’t have a closet but I have an ikea wardrobe. It’s small and has allowed me to downsize on my clothing.

I also have this coffee table that looks pretty good and the legs can fold down and I can put it away if I need more space. (https://www.amazon.com/AZUMAYA-Folding-Coffee-Center-TAC-229/dp/B0077HY08M)

THIS IS THE ONLY BED FRAME THAT YOU'LL NEVER NEED!
http://www.amazon.com/Nomad-Solid-Hardwood-Platform-Frame/dp/B000KV4MKS/

It's solid pine and made in USA. I had bought this in a full and gave it away to a friend when I upgraded to a Queen.

The best part about the bed is how it's constructed. Unlike IKEA, it isn't particle board and the hardware does NOT screw into the wood. That's why IKEA stuff falls apart. When you keep re-screwing into the same hole it destroys the integrity. Anyways, the way this bed assembles is that you screw the metal pieces into each other and the wood stays unharmed.

It was super easy to put together and super easy to take apart when gave it away. Because it was solid wood, I didn't really have to be careful or worry that it would break. The bed looks 100% identical to the day I got it. My friend was able to put it together without any instructions because the entire bed is put together using the same hardware (not a million slightly different screws like IKEA).

Well, the quality of CL items will heavily depend on the area you live in. I live in a pretty safe and populated location so I've never felt nervous approaching random doors and stepping into strangers' homes. I've gotten sets of sofas and coffee tables for free from people who happened to live in the same apartment building as myself :D!

But to your point of IKEA, I'm currently furnishing a new bedroom and finding that IKEA is still more expensive than things I can find on Amazon (for reference, this full-sized bed frame on Amazon is only $10 more than this full-size bed frame on IKEA, and to me, one is way nicer looking than the other). Plus, on Amazon I can also read thousands of reviews, filter by ratings, and get free shipping to my door. So for reasonably priced, Amazon > IKEA.

Buy a memory foam mattress on amazon and the bed frame too. Assembling furniture is a good idea too. You can take it up in pieces. The mattress before its unpacked is very manageable. Make lots of trips, the first 3 floors are easy, it's 4 and five that will break you.

These guys are great for a temp solutionbed frame

These guys are great it's an all in one kit and you can carry it up the stairs yourself. bed frame

Also wicker furniture is both light and comfortable.

I recommend Zinus through amazon. Very affordable and great quality. I have this one with a 14” mattress, you still get ~13” of headboard:

Zinus Shalini Upholstered Diamond Stitched Platform Bed / Mattress Foundation / Easy Assembly / Strong Wood Slat Support / Dark Grey, King https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M21ARE2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_s5lZDbAS95A95

Not quite as elaborate as some of the others one here, but I figured some people like the simple style as well. I have a second nightstand coming for the other side, but need to figure out better lamps, if anyone has a suggestion for a good one that keeps in this style.

Everything here was purchased through Amazon, in case you want to mimic and of this:

Nightstand: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01I5ZLJ3I/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Knitted Blanket: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07SVRYJZY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Duvay Cover: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072JC4C9K/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Canvas Skyline: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PIO5BB6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Bedframe: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075FBJXZ7/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Tuft and Needle referred me to a company that makes futon frames out of Athens, GA. The frame is called Nomad: Full Size Nomad Platform Bed Frame - Solid Hardwood https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0017RAPTQ/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_BtcQwbN67BW87

It's pressure treated poplar, natural. No headboard or footboard, but you can buy a matching headboard depending on the size of the frame. Rolling drawers are also available for purchase.

I have the king size and love it. The natural wood is wonderful, with some minor discoloration, but that just adds to the character.

You absolutely do not need the Casper foundation specifically for the Casper mattress, the foundations are all pretty similar. These look marked up a lot, even compared to traditional retail.

I don't recommend the Zinus mattresses, but their foundations / frames / storage frames are pretty good & inexpensive, and I've heard good nothing but things about them:

https://www.amazon.com/Zinus-SmartBase-Foundation-Replacement-Noise-Free/dp/B006MIUM20/

https://www.amazon.com/Zinus-Platform-Mattress-Foundation-Headboard/dp/B01B8GQAOO/

https://www.amazon.com/Zinus-Standing-Mattress-Foundation-Platform/dp/B07D7J77VL/

Check Casper's latest terms to see what restrictions (if any) they have on the mattress return policy (visible damage and not using a foundation typically invalidates the warranty / return policy of a few bed in a box offerings). They might specify slats or something like that.

The foundation you choose will affect the feel of the mattress to some extent, but not a lot. The main thing you can do with the foundation to make the whole experience a bit firmer (if you end up wanting that) is to build or buy a bunkie board (which is basically just a sheet of plywood between the mattress and the foundation).

And if it's not obvious, huge gaps in the slats are going to cause some wear and tear on the mattress. For example, a 4"-6" gap is fine (12" is not).

So a few things to share from my own story that might help you.

We had our first three years ago and we jumped in with the convertible crib. It is the standard crib->toddler->full size config. We intended on using it as his forever bed... We didn't though for two reasons.

1: the cribs usually don't come with the rails you'll need for the final bed conversion. For my model (and most others from what I can tell) that rail system was $150. On top of needing a mattress, bedding, etc, the cost of the frame seemed a little steep.

2: I got pregnant with number two. Ended up needing a crib for her, and after finding a $30 full size frame at a nearby reclamation store the decision to reuse the crib was a no-brainer.

A few other things that helped us make that call and keep costs down:

We refinished both the crib and the bedframe for the cost of about a dozen cans of spray paint.
We found a cheap full matress and an equally cheap flat boxspring replacement style frame (to keep the bed low and 3yo accessible). Links to both for reference:

Linenspa 8 Inch Memory Foam and Innerspring Hybrid Matrress - Medium-Firm Feel - Full https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IU6RN9G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_rvV4CbHJ4VDK1

Zinus Gulzar Easy Assembly Quick Lock 1.6 Inch Bunkie Board / Bed Slat Replacement, Full https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072PC9SW7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_hzV4CbMWJBA4S

Left me enough budget to splurge and get nicer sheets and duvet for my son's new bed. 😁

I recently bought a queen mattress 300$ in a box on amazon. When you can save for it, a very cheap permanent option.

Edit: found a cheaper option and throw it on the floor eventually you will upgrade to a box spring honestly most people give these away for free on FB marketplace) and eventually a 40-80$ metal frame off facebook marketplace

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IU6RQW0/ref=twister_B07RD872XN?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

When you have cash amazon for mattresses is AFFORDABLE. Plus you don't need a truck.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IU6RP12/ref=twister_B07RD872XN?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

If you do a trial prime account, shipping is free. cancel the card information before they charge you if you wish to.

I think with taxes and all it comes out to 210 with free shipping

I hope this helps you!

Thanks! I use this bed frame from Amazon ($45) which I like because it has square legs (instead of the legs with wheels on them), and it folds down really small, which was great when we were moving. The headboard comes with all of the hardware and just screws into existing panels on the frame. Some people on Amazon said they screwed it into the wall to avoid it moving, so that's an option to, if that's what you're into. Hope that helps!

Zinus Shalini Upholstered Diamond Stitched Platform Bed / Mattress Foundation / Easy Assembly / Strong Wood Slat Support / Dark Grey, Queen https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M7M9NXX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_nWrhDbKF293JB

I am a big fan of my Zinus storage bed frame. Very solid, no squeaks after almost 2 years, and the extra height/no box spring is great. I bought mine on the recommendation of a friend, she and her husband have had theirs for a year or two longer than I have and have not had issues either.

It looks like they make a platform model and low profile too.

You have to get an adjustable bed. It’s freakin amazing for GERD sufferers. I have an HH so I always sleep elevated up. I got this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B074QWYM22?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

It’s super easy to set up, and pretty inexpensive. I bought the mattress and frame for about $750. Get two twin XLs and put side by side. A must for everyone with GERD.

Sounds like an easy solution is to go vertical and build a loft. Someone still at university might know someone who can do carpentry on the cheap. That's what I did during dorm life with 2 in 140 sq ft. Need to make use of the empty vertical space if you cannot make it work otherwise. Ends up looking something like this.

http://www.rosenberryrooms.com/801-dh-loft-bed.html

Or for something ready made

https://www.amazon.com/Dorel-Home-Products-Abode-Silver/dp/B004LQ1P9Y

If you can afford it, I'd recommend something like this https://www.amazon.com/DHP-Abode-Full-Size-Ladder-Silver/dp/B004LQ1P9Y/ref=sr_1_17?s=furniture&ie=UTF8&qid=1527706190&sr=1-17&keywords=loft+bed Check the review comments - a couple sent in pics of how they set up a bedroom in their studio closet using one of these beds. Put some shelving, a clothes rack, or a dresser on the non-desk side - something inexpensive from Ikea, Walmart, Target, etc. Or get one of the other bunks with no desk and put a chair or small loveseat underneath, plus clothes storage. Get a small LED clip lamp from Ikea to use up top for reading at night. They also make small shelves and pouches meant for people to use when bunking in a dorm or at camp - that could be useful for keeping your phone, books, etc within reach up top. Get a heavy duty power strip with a long cable to run to the nearest available outlet if there is not one in the closet. Get a clamp on fan to keep some air circulating.

Here's the original post.
http://www.reddit.com/r/malelivingspace/comments/2044jr/just_moved_into_an_apartment_any_ideas_for_the/


I got some stuff to fill the space.

A work in progress and i like how it's going. These huge walls are killing me. I'm waiting for a matching book case to land on craigslist for the other side of the desk. Also waiting for a unique awesome coffee table to catch my eyes. More updates to come!

Oh yea... the bed is off the ground on this.
http://amzn.com/B005XC5UR8

I'll be replacing the legs on that couch to some of these.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/117585026/mid-century-style-replacement-sofa-legs


Any comments? I'm totally willing to build off recommendations!

Well that's awesome! But...I don't have the resources unfortunately. I went with this one on Amazon. I appreciate the answers y'all.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074Q4SQ1Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_R-FUDbYD35G5C

Got some storage for shirts under the bed.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07T4KDFVP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_D.FUDbTJ1VJFJ

I bought this set here from Amazon. Set includes both manual and video step-by-step instructions.

My dad is a carpenter so I was able to get all the lumber and tools from him. There are probably cheaper sets but this one had the greatest reviews that vouched for its quality and reliability.

Thanks, Amazon special.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075FBJXZ7/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Looks like you could get this one and also not have to worry about a box spring. A friend of mine was looking at it, don’t think he bought it yet though.

We got a Linenspa. We have only had it a month or so, but so far it is really nice. I was a little worried about the thickness since I'm heavier (230lbs), but I haven't had any issues with it. It's definitely a step up from our 20 year old innerspring. I don't expect it to last all that long, but, for the price, I could buy one every year for the next 10 years for the price of some regular mattresses.

LinenSpa 8" Memory Foam and Innerspring Hybrid Mattress, Full https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IU6RN9G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_EyDJAbD40F02B

I have one of these from wfutons. Nomad Platform Bed

It's solid hardwood and my full size frame was only $130. Amazingly sturdy and doesn't move one bit. I Have a bedskirt on it because I store stuff under it but it comes unstained so that you can stain it whatever color you want. Very nice wood.

i bought this frame on amazon about a year ago for $50, & it's been great. i took the headboard from my old wood frame & attached it directly to the wall.

Items for Sale

Household Items

• Electric heater/furnace - $20
  
  • This might be the same model, I don't think it's actually worth much but this is the info for it at least.
    
    
• Black bookshelf - $15
  
• Metal bed frame - $15 - link is not the exact model, but extremely similar
  
  

  Brewing Supplies
  

  
  I don't have pictures to post but if requested they can be produced
  
  

• 2x 5 gallon plastic buckets w/lids
  
• 2x bottling buckets
  
• 1x 6gal better bottle
  
• 5 gal pot

I got this frame a couple months ago and I like it. It delivered in less than the estimated shipping time and the quality is good for the price. Easy to put together - just don't force the nuts onto the bolts because the threading is a little soft.

One thing to note - the middle supports are slightly higher than the rest of the frame (less than a 1/2 inch), but I don't notice it.

The full size is much less. I looked on Amazon, and for the approximate one I got, its $239 (https://amzn.com/B00R27F0CW) for the mattress and $169 for the stand (https://amzn.com/B00VKXV7UI) That's really not bad- especially if you have Prime. I don't think they rent beds in my state because a friend of mine tried to rent one for her mother-in-law recently.

I used this hardware kit, which is excellent!!

Full-Size Deluxe Murphy Bed Kit,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CYPSSFI?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

OP, it's time for you to invest in a memory foam mattress topper. i just wondered why i never felt that my butt made my sleep uncomfortable and realized i've been sleeping on memory foam since fourth grade.

i put a foam on top of a board like this https://smile.amazon.com/Zinus-Assembly-Quick-Bunkie-Replacement/dp/B072HTRVM1/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1526169463&sr=8-8&keywords=bed+board with no mattress. it's good if you like firm beds

This is clean and not crazy expensive. Looks to be sturdy as well.

http://www.amazon.com/Leggett-Fashion-Murray-Platform-Mahogany/dp/B005XC5UR8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1456983444&sr=8-1&keywords=leggett+and+platt+wood+frame

I have a T&N queen and it's awesome. I bought a box spring replacement to put it on.

http://www.amazon.com/Zinus-SmartBase-Mattress-Foundation-Replacement/dp/B00GXUM0M2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1453937030&sr=8-2&keywords=box+spring+replacement

Sorry, standard bed frame and just attaching the head board to that for the look. Like this one. Zinus Michelle Compack 9-Leg Support Bed Frame, for Box Spring and Mattress Set, Queen https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EYN1NEG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_FphqDbS73T96T

You may also want to look into an adjustable bed frame too. I ordered one off amazon, queen, for like $700.


https://www.amazon.com/LUCID-L300-Adjustable-Bed-Base/dp/B074QWYM22

Zinus Gulzar Easy Assembly Quick Lock 1.6 Inch Bunkie Board / Bed Slat Replacement, Queen https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072HTRVM1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Ik9ADbQ3BGENH I’m considering using this

There are metal bed frames with metal slats.
14 Inch Metal Platform Beds w/ Heavy Duty Steel Slat Mattress Foundation (No Box Spring Needed) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CVQNKP5/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_0WMRDbVWPFM3G

And a metal slat platform if you already have a frame.
Zinus Gulzar Easy Assembly Quick Lock 1.6 Inch Bunkie Board / Bed Slat Replacement, Queen https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072HTRVM1/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_2YMRDbFE4D5MM

Zinus Compack 9-Leg Support Bed Frame, for Box Spring & Mattress Set, Queen https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EYN1NEG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_vdWuvm8o12FoW

I have a few of these (guest / kids beds) and I can’t recommend them enough: Linenspa 8 Inch Memory Foam and Innerspring Hybrid Mattress - Medium-Firm Feel - Queen https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IU6RQW0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6ELhDb3K6ZFKP

combined with this bedframe that's made for memory foam (slats every 2") it's the most stable bed i've had, doesn't rock or make any noise.

You can have wood cut to length at HD. You will need to sand it. Stain can be a poly stain so you get the finish and stain in one shot, but it needs drying time and the proper temp to do it.

Alternatively get this https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073WRF565/ref=sspa_dk_detail_1

I'm sure you could find one cheaper via Walmart.

Amazon says I got the 8 inch:
https://smile.amazon.com/LINENSPA-Memory-Innerspring-Hybrid-Mattress/dp/B01IU6RQW0

The bed frame is from Amazon. Not sure which one off the top of my head but was less than $200.

Edit: found it, even cheaper than I remembered

> We don't have a bed frame, there's no room in the bedroom for one. There's literally half a foot between the end of the bed and the wall.

Would something like this maybe work: https://smile.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Platform-Frame-Black-Full/dp/B073WRF565/ref=sxin_2_ac_d_pm?crid=368SMAF76NGKN&keywords=platform+bed+frame&pd_rd_i=B073WRF565&pd_rd_r=c6cc9bc8-8cf9-439e-a4fc-8ddd299b7a67&pd_rd_w=XI0TS&pd_rd_wg=AP9a2&pf_rd_p=be5d8dec-444e-4770-91df-1e16a8c46da8&pf_rd_r=YDCA2TQT1SFDJVJME2GF&qid=1563153296&s=gateway&sprefix=platform+bed+frame%2Caps%2C202

Also, if you can, vacuum bags for anything fabric/compressible.

Bed

Bed frame

sorta kinda.

Here you go https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073WRF565/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

50$ bed frame buy it

Zinus Compack Adjustable Steel Bed Frame, for Box Spring & Mattress Set, Fits Full to King https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IGGJQ6O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_OL2vzbGM8H1D7

If you don't have a box spring though, the platform frames are $75.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01IU6RP12/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1503858618&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=mattress&dpPl=1&dpID=51ukRWG-WFL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

This is what I bought. It's basically a conventional with a few inches of memory foam on the top. Under $250 for a king with tax and shipping, and it shows up right at your door. There's just no reason to spend so much.

So. I've decided i'm going for that dresser. But for the bed frame I have this frame. Should i go to home depot and buy some MDF planks to run on top of it for my memory foam mattress or buy a new frame? Also the room was bigger than i thought the official size is 18ft X 20ft. As for the table. Would it be better to buy a new table? I like this one but if it's a eye sore I'd rather replace it.

No box spring. I got a platform to put it on

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M7M9NXX/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

There are some less expensive ones if cost is an issue

ATM, metal joints that seem to be soldered together. I'm looking at this option. - but still seeing complaints about squeaking. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/cr/B01B8GQAOO/ref=cm_cr_arp_mb_hist_5?filterByStar=five_star&pageNumber=1