It’s highly likely that when you walked into your new campus bedroom for the first time, you felt underwhelmed by it. A bare room with walls you can’t paint can feel like a dull, impersonal space you will be trapped in for the next year. But fear not – we have some tips to make your dorm room feel your own!
Adding colourful or patterned bedsheets to your bed is an easy and fuss-free way to inject personality into your new space. Whether you’re a fan of geometric patterns, enjoy the retro look, or marvel in marble, the perfect sheets to express your individuality are out there.
Once you’ve chosen the ideal bedding, try adding throws and cushions in complementary or contrasting tones to truly personalise your comfort and style.
Even though you might not be able to use pins, blu-tack, or nails, you can still cover your walls with your favourite photographs and wall art.
By using Command hooks and strips, you can put up fairy lights for a cosy corner, string up garlands and faux flowers, or put up your favourite posters and quotes without damaging the walls. Just make sure you follow the instructions carefully!
If you tend to feel homesick, creating a photo wall is a brilliant way to keep a little bit of home with you. Choose a multi-aperture frame for your favourite snaps, or get creative with bulldog clips and pegs by sticking them directly to the wall or connecting them with string to create a feature wall where you can easily swap out photos as and when you like.
Try adding a mirror too – not only can it help to decorate your space, but it can also give the illusion that your room is bigger than it is.
Your new bedroom floor will either be plain wood or covered in an ugly carpet. Cover up that faceless floor by adding a rug that’s more to your taste – choose to go large to cover most of the surface or small for a pop of colour. You’ll love how a rug can make your room feel warmer and cosier in winter.
If you want to create a dynamic focal point, the colourful Carnival Rug is an excellent option for any space.
Let’s face it; you’re probably going to be using your desk a lot, so you might as well make it look stylish whilst keeping it efficient.
Find a desk tidy that you’ll use and keep your stationery essentials organised, so you’re not hunting around for the things you need.
Once you’ve found space for your study books, required reading, and stationery, try filling any empty gaps with photos, plants, or ornaments that express who you are, or that remind you of home. Be careful not to overdo the decoration on your desk, though – you still want it to be functional and practical.
If you want your workspace, your shelves or wardrobe to look unique, use washi tape to create beautiful designs and patterns along the tabletop or doors. The low-tack backing makes it the perfect choice for damage-free decorating, and it can be easily removed from furniture when it’s time to move on.
Many dorm rooms tend to be on the smaller side, which could take some time to get used to, especially if you’re used to a spacious bedroom at home. Make the most of the storage space while keeping it fashionable and personally expressive.
Under the bed storage boxes are ideal for items you might not use for a while, such as seasonal clothes or books for another semester, whilst cube storage boxes are perfect for helping you to organise drawers or for using as added fashionable storage space on top of your wardrobe.
However you decide to decorate your room, make sure you check your accommodation rules before sticking anything to the walls or adding cosy home comforts such as candles and lights, but remember to have fun with your space – it’s going to be your home for the next year!
