After three potential roommate arrangements that didn’t pan out for various reasons, about seven apartments seen at the beginning of summer, and seven or eight more seen since I got back from visiting home…I’ve been afraid to say anything for fear of jinxing it since I finally found a place a couple weeks ago. But the deposit check is in the hands of the landlord, I picked up the keys last night, and I am going to start moving things in this weekend so I think it’s safe. It’s been a long road and I feel an enormous sense of relief about it all.

Unfortunately, coming from a campus apartment, I have zero furniture and can’t afford to spend more than IKEA prices. I’ve been through the catalog and dog-eared some pages based on aesthetic appeal and price, but I know that some stuff is sturdier than others. I’m considering the Malm dresser, small Billy bookcase, and Vika Amon/Alex combo desk for the major things I need.

My question for you guys:  What do you own (or have you owned) from IKEA that has held up reasonably well?