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HGTV Design Team Makes Over Dorm Lobby At U of A

Pomfret Hall on the University of Arkansas campus had a common space redone by famous HGTV duo Cortney and Robert Novogratz. The couple flew in from Los Angeles...

Pomfret Hall on the University of Arkansas campus had a common space redone by famous HGTV duo Cortney and Robert Novogratz.

The couple flew in from Los Angeles Thursday and spent a few hours walking around the campus to get inspiration for the space. On Friday, the lobby was transformed.

"Before was definitely pretty generic, and now the fact that we have candy, it's inviting...there's throw pillows where you can just kind of chill and hang out," Cortney Novogratz said, "We put the games out front and center so the kids really can like study, yes, but also maybe play a game with each other and hang out,"

Ryan Rogers has lived in the dorm for two years, and said the throw pillows, rugs and 60-inch television makes the dorm built in 1967 feel like new.

"As you can see behind us we have a monster TV, this is going to be a draw on game days," Rogers said, "But this living space will be a comforting space and not just hard couches and concrete."

Cameron Thomas said he is currently a business major, but is thinking about changing his major to interior design after seeing the renovation process. Thomas lives in Pomfret Hall.

"I've seen it the last year and the beginning of this year, so this is a complete change...it's much more inviting now for students to come and hang around," Thomas said.

Director of Housing Jeff Vinger said the renovation is just in time for students to start school on Monday (Aug. 25).

"To make it actually look like a home away from home which is really what we want for our students in our residence here, there's about 800 people that actually reside in Pomfret Hall, and this really makes it a home away from home for them," Vinger said.

Walmart provided all of the furniture and accessories for the updated common space. The Novogratz' are launching a new home furnishings line with Walmart this fall.

HGTV Design Team Makes Over Dorm Lobby At U of A

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