College is groundbreaking experience! It’s a fresh start and a chance to reinvent yourself. In interior design, we know that your living quarters says a lot about who you are as a person. Follow my tips below to start on the right foot.
What Furnishings Does Your Dorm Offer?
Before you make decisions on how to decorate and what to buy, you first need to find out what furniture and storage areas your specific dorm already has. Most dorms will come with beds, dressers, desks, and closets. Each of these pieces vary in size and are either movable or stationary. Every college is different. It is smart to know what you are starting with in order to decide what you need to make it your own!
Collaborate With Your Roommate
Both you and your roommate should feel at home in your dorm. It is important to plan ahead and come to a united decision on style and décor for your dorm. A popular concept in dorms is to design with a theme. If your tastes are just too different to agree on one theme or style, an easy first step is color. Find a color scheme that you both like. Even if there are different styles on each side of the room, a mutual color scheme will help to make the room cohesive.
Use Your Space Efficiently
Moving from your parents’ house to your dorm room will likely be a major downsize in living space. One of the best things you can do is get creative with storage and furniture. Shop for furniture that has multiple uses, such as an ottoman that can be storage and double as a sitting area! When space is limited horizontally, build vertically. Shelving and accent mirrors are a good way to use vertical space. Mirrors’ reflections give the illusion of a larger room. If your ceiling height allows it, make your bed into a loft and have a sitting area below. Just the addition of bed risers will permit suitcases and storage bins to be stored under the bed. Windows are exemplary focal points to allow natural light in. Well-lit rooms feel more spacious!