10 Ways To Decorate Your Dorm Room

(Guest Writer: Beatrix Potter)

Moving into your dorm room is an exciting time. But fitting all your essentials in it, whilst trying to create a functional and stylish space, can be a tricky task. Here are 10 ideas to help you decorate your dorm room.

1. Decide On A Colour Scheme

One of the simplest ways to make your dorm room feel stylish is to choose a colour scheme and stick to it. Decide what colours you’re going to use – are you a fan of neutrals or bright colours? Try shopping at the same store for your bedding, towels and curtains and there’s a good chance you’ll be able to find matching sets.

If you’re sharing your dorm with a roommate, try to coordinate colours and make sure you’re not doubling up on your dorm room essentials.

Photo by Spencer Selover from Pexels

2. Create Wall Art

You’ll want to decorate your room so that it feels more personal. The floors and walls are great places to add some décor without taking up valuable space. Hang up posters or create your own wall art with photos of friends, family, or postcards of places you’ve been (or want to go) to.

Photo by Tim Gouw from Pexels

3. Raise Your Bed

Utilize the space under your bed by making use of bed risers. Not only are they relatively cheap, but some may include an additional USB port or outlet (which can be found at online stores). If you have the option to loft your bed, it’s well worth taking! This will create some extra space for a desk or futon, as well as added storage space.

4. Lighting

Floor lamps are a great way to brighten up your space, making it feel bigger in the process. You can also use some Christmas/fairy lights to decorate your dorm room. Try stringing them along the wall or on the ceiling above your bed. They can make your room feel cosy and more relaxing.

5. Decorate Your Bed

Beds are usually the main focus of a room. “Invest in a great bedspread. It’s a brilliant place to add a splash of colour! You can also look for an accent pillow. Whether you want one with a pop of colour or one that has a funny saying, there’s one out there for you. Pillows will not only encourage you to actually make your bed, but they also add a touch of comfort and style to your dorm room,” says Stacey Cotter, a design blogger at UK Writings.

6. Invest In Storage Bins

Limited space means you’ll need to make the most of every storage solution available. Make sure that you only pack the essentials in order to avoid clutter and invest in some storage bins. There are many options available, from tall ones to short or under-bed ones.

Ottomans are a great option as well, as they not only serve as storage but also provide additional seating. Drawers or dividers are also a cheap investment that can help you to arrange your clothing and make the most of your drawer space.

7. Add Curtains

Adding curtains to your windows is another simple and effective way to decorate your room and add some colour and personality to it. Curtains are also great for those days when you want to shut out the sunlight so you can get some rest and a lie-in.

Photo by Dương Nhân from Pexels

8. Get A Rug

Decorating your floorspace is another simple way to make your room feel cosier and more personal. Find a rug that matches your bedding and fits in with your colour scheme, or go for a statement rug that adds a splash of colour. Rugs can make the room feel bigger and are also a fantastic way to keep you and your feet warm, especially if your dormitory is in a cold area!

Photo by Daria Shevtsova from Pexels

9. Take Care Of Your Walls

Whilst you want to be creative, make sure that you avoid making any marks on the walls. Avoid using nails, making holes or paint chips. Instead, use sticky tack or easy-release hooks to hang things up. Consider using washi tape to add some colour and design, without causing any long-lasting damage to your walls.

10. Get A Plant

Plants brighten up any room. Consider going for a cheap and easy-to-care-for plant, such as some succulents. They look great, are easy to look after, and need very little watering.

Photo by Element5 Digital from Pexels

As you settle down in your dorm room, you can use the above tips to turn your humble space into a home away from home.