The first moving experience for most is moving out of our parents house and moving into a dorm room or student apartment. The thrill of having your own space is so overwhelming that even the tiniest of dorm rooms can feel like a penthouse suite! That is until the excitement wears off and you start to realize what you actually have to work with. While the limited space and eccentricity of college roommates are out of your control, you can make the best use of your dorm room space and make it feel like home with these simple dorm room design tips.
Create Space
While you can’t do any major renovations to your dorm room you can create new space and take your space to a new level. Raisers are very functional for dorm beds, lifting your bed frame at least a 1 foot of the ground gives you plenty of space for storage under your bed. If you are handy (and your RA permits it) you can build a frame that lifts your bed to loft level. With you bed up high you can create special study alcove under your lofted bed.
DIY Decor
If you are starting to feel homesick or looking to define your new college style add some touches that will make your dorm room feel more like home. DIY dorm decor projects are also an easy way to express your style to your new friends. Whether it’s a instagram photo mural, removable wall decals, hanging lights or something you upcycle, these small touches add life to any space. Cover your mini fridge with colorful contact paper for added flair. Check out how easy it is to make your own ombré tassel wall hanging. Ikea hacks are also some fun ways of turning common college furniture into something special.
Organize
After a few weeks of dirty clothes and towels piled on your bedroom floor it’s almost as if you miss your mom’s constant nagging, or at least her helpful cleaning. Getting organized is the key to making the most of your space. Use functional accessories that can help keep you organized. Over the door organizers, an ottoman with storage space or even extra shelving can function both as accent pieces and keep your space tidy and open.
Living on your own is a learning process, but finding more space in the tiniest of spaces is an art. Start simple and remember less is more. What are you favorite dorm room must haves? Share your dorm room design tips below in the comments section.