31-07-2025
Ballard Designs Launches Dorm Collection For 2025: Stylish Essentials For College And Beyond
According to Statista, in 2024, American consumers planned to spend a total of about $12.2 billion on back-to-college dorm or apartment furnishings, but considering designer dorm rooms are only on the rise, that number will likely increase in 2025. So, it's no surprise that Ballard Designs has gotten into this category, quietly launching a dorm line in March 2025.
The response to the launch has been overwhelmingly positive, thanks to the brand's colorful aesthetic aligning perfectly with today's popular dorm design trends, according to Patrick Farrell, Ballard's Vice President of Merchandising, 'Dorm, as a category, has been on our radar for many years,' he tells me. 'We love color and prints so combined that with Ballard's strength in beautiful bedrooms to create unique stories, perfect for the back-to-school timeframe. Our goal was to make it easy for customers to help their daughters get college-ready by move-in day and we accomplished the goal!'
Ballard currently offers 202 items in the dorm category—some products that were previously available, as well as some new ones.
For College And Beyond
What sets Ballard's dorm line apart is its exceptional quality—designed to last well beyond the freshman and sophomore years. From headboards to decor, these pieces are a higher investment than typical dorm products, but they offer long-term value that transitions seamlessly from the college years to the first apartment and beyond. 'All our Dorm items are made to the Ballard quality standard and are designed for many years of use,' says Farrell.
This also builds customer loyalty for Ballard. 'We hope that our Dorm customer loves her room so much she takes pieces with her and builds on them over time into her first apartment and future home,' he explains.
The Dorm category on the website is also smartly curated. In addition to items specifically designed for dorm rooms, the line includes furniture pieces ideal for smaller spaces, such as secretary desks, bookcases, and nightstands. There's also essentials like towels and bedding, as well as useful accessories like rechargeable lamps.
Headboards
One of the most notable launches is the collection of headboards, designed in collaboration with the stylish dorm bedding brand Room 422.
Ballard's headboards are made from foam, which means they attach to the wall without creating any damage. That also makes them a fantastic choice for any future rental home. There are five styles available—Emily, Caroline, Molly, Isabel, and Hailey—each in multiple colors and patterns.
These are also top sellers, reveals Farrell. 'The foam headboards are extremely popular and we are hearing of uses beyond the dorm, for guest rooms, rental properties, apartment living and more.'
Pillows
Pillows are another hallmark of the line. 'Our Caitlin Oversized Pillow is the Ballard version of a backrest pillow and does multiple duty as a comfy bed pillow, a bolster, a wedge, and a study rest.'
Another option is the Lexie Appliqué Monogram Pillow, which is available in five colors. In true Southern style, it can be personalized with a monogram, name, or initials.
Hannah Dorm Bedskirt
Trying to find extra storage in a dorm room can be incredibly challenging, so many students opt to loft their beds. However, this isn't the most aesthetic choice. So, the Hannah Paneled Dorm Bedskirt is designed to cover up the under-bed mess on elevated platform beds. It's also made to coordinate with the Caitlin and Lexie pillows. 'All three work together in the same family and provide a layered look that is both beautiful and functional.'
