Moving into a dorm room can be exciting, but also daunting. Often compact rooms defined by a minimalist, functional design that contains only the essentials, a dorm room is a space crying out for personalization. From decor and bathroom essentials to bedding, we spoke with interior designers about how to make a dorm feel like home, and really stand out.
On average, American families spend about $1200 on back-to-college costs, according to the National Retail Federation. That includes everything from textbooks to dorm room decorations. But with a little creativity and inspiration, you can make your dorm room feel like a cozy oasis without breaking the bank.
Dorm rooms are often unappealingly plain—just a spare space with off-white walls, utilitarian bunk beds, and particle-board desks. But don't let that discourage you. With a few small additions and some personal touches, you can transform your dorm room into a space that's uniquely yours.
Whether you live in St. John's University-provided housing or an off-campus home, decor for student living spaces can be a challenge. But with a little creativity and a few key pieces, you can create a space that feels like home.
Here are some dorm room decorating ideas to help you get started:
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Start with a color scheme: Choose colors that make you happy and calm. Pastels are a popular choice, but bold colors can also be fun and energizing.
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Add some greenery: Plants are a great way to add life to a small space. Choose low-maintenance varieties, like succulents or snake plants.
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Create a cozy seating area: Bring in a comfortable chair or bean bag to create a cozy reading nook.
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Layer your bedding: A few throw pillows and a cozy blanket can make a plain dorm bed feel like a luxurious oasis.
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Hang some art: Use removable adhesive strips to hang posters, prints, or your own artwork. This is a great way to add a personal touch to your space.
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Use storage baskets: Keep clutter at bay with storage baskets for books, blankets, and other items.
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Add some mood lighting: String lights or a small lamp can add warmth and ambiance to your space.
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Create a gallery wall: Use washi tape or removable adhesive strips to create a gallery wall of photos, prints, or other artwork.
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Incorporate a rug: A rug can add color and texture to a plain dorm room floor.
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Make use of wall space: Use a pegboard or other wall organizer to keep your desk area tidy and organized.
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Add some scent: Candles or diffusers can add a relaxing scent to your space.
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Personalize your desk: Bring in a few favorite photos or small decor items to make your desk area feel like your own.
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Hang a tapestry: A tapestry can add color and interest to a plain dorm room wall.
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Bring in some storage: Use under-bed storage containers or over-the-door organizers to make the most of your small space.
Shop our favorite cheap, stylish dorm room decor ideas that will add personality to your room—without making it something you'd scroll past on TikTok. Sleep through your 8am class, but don't sleep on dorm decor. Home is where the decorations are, and when you pack up and move into a college dorm room, you're starting a new chapter of your life. Make it a stylish one.
