Wednesday, July 17, 2013

College Dorm Decorating Tips


You are off to college and ready to begin an exciting new chapter in your life. Make your dorm your own by following a few helpful decorating tips.

College dorm rooms are notoriously small, particularly when the space is shared with a roommate or two. Don't be discouraged though, there are plenty of ways to add your own personality and to make the most of the small space.

1. Rearrange It - Find the best layout for your room and your personal space by rearranging or reconfiguring the dorm room set-up. Don't think that because your room is set up a certain way when you arrive means that it has to stay that way. Peek in on your neighbors, check out other rooms and get ideas. If it's possible, elevate your bed for more floor space. Use the space under the bed for a study area or a cozy living area. Find a configuration that not only provides you with extra space, but adds to your personality. Add a rug to that empty space to spruce up the dull dorm floor.


Lofted Bed with Study Area Underneath Image by HGTV

2. Multifunctional - Since space is limited, think about the items in your as having a dual purpose. A storage ottoman. Tables with casters that can be raised or lowered depending on the use. Futons and are just as significant as a sofa and a bed. A desk lamp that stretches to be your bedside lamp. Desktop accessories that serve as personalized decor and supply storage. Refrigerator cart with storage below for extra food or dishes. Poufs can be great for holding your bedside necessities or kicking your feet up.

3. Coordinate - Try coordinating your decorating plan with your roommate. Do you both have a love for jewel tones, pastels or unique prints. Follow a few tips for coordinating geometric shapes and mixing patterns. If your roommate is being assigned and you don't get the opportunity to meet before classes commence, then try shopping together once you get to school. If your roommate is not one for coordinated decorating, don't fret, you can always work to coordinate your own side of the room.


4. Accessorize - No doubt your room at home included your own personality at every turn, be sure to include that same personality in your dorm room. Add an original art piece, decorate your own photo frames to match your decor, add throw pillows to match your color theme. Of course, adding a rug to your door floor helps tie the room together from top to bottom.



5. Mementos - You are bound to get homesick for friends, family and pets, so sprinkle some of your favorite mementos all over your room. From photos to books to favorite keepsakes, decorate your nooks and crannies with reminders of your favorite faces and places. Bulletin boards and magnetic dry erase boards are a perfect place to post your memories.

6. Organization - Initiate organization at every turn. Minimizing clutter in a small space always helps with size. The less clutter, the larger the room will seem. Invest in some creative, colorful bins for storage in the closet, under the bed, in cubes and on your desk.


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