Tips for Decorating a Dorm Room
Sigh… the end of summer is upon us and with it comes the chaos of back to school prep.
But while some of us face the tedious task of packing lunches, others are sending their not-so-little ones off to college.
Watching your high school grad leave for school is a huge step, and you want to be sure their living quarters are just as accommodating as their bedroom at home, right?
credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/acrider/
Everyone knows dorm rooms are notorious for being small and dingy, but with these chic and functional décor ideas, your college freshman will be happy, comfortable and ready to hit the books.
Dorm Room Decor Tip #1: Go Multifunctional & Mobile
When buying furniture for a small dorm room, the smartest thing you can do is choose multifunctional pieces that serve several purposes.
Think about what kind of (platonic!) activities will be happening in your freshman’s dorm room; the three main ones being: Studying, sleeping and lounging with friends.
A futon is a great example of a multifunctional piece. By day it can be used as a sofa for watching movies or hanging out between classes, but by night it can instantly turn into a bed for a full night’s sleep.
If your freshman isn’t convinced with the whole futon look, or a bed is provided (as is the usual way), sway them with the idea of playing it up with fabulous accent pillows and throw blankets. These accessories add a homey vibe and come in every color, pattern and fabric imaginable, giving their dorm room the custom feel they’re probably looking for.
Dorm Room Decor Tip #2: Select Your Storage
The number one storage feature in any dorm room is likely the desk.
This is where the laptop rests, along with mountains of books, pens, paper and other odds and ends. A desk with several drawers down the side is ideal, however with limited space, a freestanding desk is sometimes all that’s provided.
With that said, there’s no reason you can’t install shelving above the desk with bins for easy storage. This creates an airier walking space and less clutter around the desk.
A bench is another must-have storage piece. With its inner and bottom-shelving storage options, the Dune Storage Bench In Grey from Worldwide Homefurnishings makes practicality fun without sacrificing style.
Placed at the end of the bed, it gives your freshman a place to put their shoes on and acts as extra seating when friends stop by. You know, to study…
Storage ottomans serve the same purpose; extra seating, extra storage and of course a place for your scholar to put their feet up at the end of a long day (or night!)
Dorm Room Decor Tip #3: Add Personal Details
Details make all the difference and this is one key phrase to embrace when working with dorm décor.
Since paint is rarely allowed in the dorms, you have to get creative when it comes to infusing color into your freshman’s space.
If they insisted on dragging their less-than-chic indie-band posters to the dorm with them, fine, but it’s time they graduated into a mounted frame rather than the the push-pin option.
Artwork is a perfect way to add color and unity into a small room. For instance, whichever artwork they decide to put up, paint every frame black; or for a splash of color, perhaps yellow or bright blue.
Tie these colors into their bedding, carpet and pillows. Let them have fun with colorful baskets, vases and bits and bobs that make them feel at home.
If the walls are still looking particularly bare, try hanging fabric. It’s extremely on trend and transforms a space in seconds for a bold, inviting look. You could also try wall decals. Not only are they affordable, but they simply peel off at the end of the year, which means no trouble from the dorm advisors.
We know saying goodbye to your baby isn’t easy. Cherish the time you have before they go and embrace the arguments you’ll have as you work together on their dorm room décor. Whether you believe it or not, they’ll be thankful for your help!