Decorating for College
Decorating a dorm or sorority house room is a fun and creative process that allows you to personalize your living space and make it feel like home. Here are some tips and ideas to help you decorate your college home away from home:
- Start with a plan: Before you begin decorating, take some time to plan out the overall look and feel you want for your room. Consider your style, color preferences, and any specific themes or aesthetics you wish to incorporate.
- Check regulations: Some dorms/houses have specific rules and regulations regarding what you can and cannot do when it comes to decorating. Make sure you familiarize yourself with these guidelines before making any major changes or purchases.
- Focus on the essentials: Dorm rooms are typically small, so it's important to prioritize the essentials. Learn the measurements of your dorm room first and foremost. Don't just "buy" stuff. Study the room and decide what you need.
- Bedding and textiles: Choose bedding and textiles that reflect your personal style and add color and comfort to your room. Consider getting a mattress topper for added comfort, and use throw pillows, blankets, and rugs to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
- Wall decor: Use wall decor to add personality and style to your dorm room. You can hang posters, photographs, artwork, or tapestries to make the walls more visually appealing. Consider using removable adhesive hooks or strips to avoid damaging the walls.
- Lighting: Good lighting can make a big difference in the ambiance of your small room. Consider adding a desk lamp for studying, string lights for a cozy feel, or a floor lamp for overall illumination. Just make sure to use LED or energy-efficient bulbs.
- Storage solutions: Maximizing storage is essential. Use under-bed storage containers, hanging organizers, and over-the-door hooks to make the most of your space. Consider storage ottomans or multi-purpose furniture that can serve as both seating and storage.
- Functional decor: Look for decor items that serve a practical purpose, such as a whiteboard or corkboard for reminders and notes, a calendar to stay organized, or a wall-mounted organizer for pens and stationery.
- Plants: Add some greenery to your dorm room with low-maintenance plants or succulents. They not only freshen up the space but also provide numerous benefits, such as improved air quality and a calming atmosphere.
Remember, the most important thing is to create a space that reflects your personality and makes you feel comfortable and at home. Have fun and get creative with your college decor!
Monica Robertson shared her daughter's white and gold dorm room from freshman year and whimsical sorority house room from her junior year at the University of Mississippi. "My rooms are created with a mixture of designer and Target items. If you look, you can find replicas of expensive items. I recommend Overstock, Wayfair, Rugs.com, Essentials by Eden, Chloe and Olive pillows, Pottery Barn, Hobby Lobby, Target, and Dorm Decor." —Monica Robertson
