15 A+ Decorating Ideas for Your College Dorm Room
Despite the parties (!) and no classes ’til 11 am (!), there’s nothing that makes college life lose its luster faster than a living space that’s approximately 9 feet by 8 feet with a “no holes in the wall” policy. But dorm decorating doesn’t have to be limited to a taped-up One Direction poster and a pile of socks in the corner. These 15 dorm decorating ideas pack some major personality in a small space (and on a small budget). But good luck getting to class on time… you’ll never want to leave your cozy room when it’s this tricked out.
1. Geometric Wall Hanging: Painting the walls obviously isn’t going to fly in a dorm. Try making your own giant geometric wall hanging to liven up your space instead. (via Design Sponge)
2. Dixie Cup Lights: Hanging twinkle lights are a dorm room staple. Change it up with this cute Dixie Cup version. (via Hey Gorg)
3. Paper Punch Frames: With nail holes a no-go, you can forget about hanging all your sweet posters and torn-out Vogue pages in actual frames. Try “framing” your art with colorful paper designs made with a paper puncher. (via Brit + Co)
4. Washi Tape Frames: Even easier than paper punching? Washi tape-ing! Try framing prints and posters with colorful washi tape. (via Design Sponge)
5. Washi Tape Wall: Don’t put that washi tape down yet; tackle a bare dorm wall with a way-cool washi tape installation. (via Brit + Co)
6. Macrame Wall Hanging: Another bland band poster alternative? This colorful and unique macrame wall hanging. Make color-coordinating versions with your roommate for some major bonding time. (via Brit + Co)
7. Cheese Grater Turned Earring Holder: Tired of finding your earrings under your roommate’s bed? Grab some spray paint and an old cheese grater (find one at your college town’s thrift store) and you’ve got yourself a place to put ’em. (via Brit + Co)
8. Dorm Bed Canopy: Safari style for the dorm? Yes, please! Plus? A canopy provides a little bit of privacy when you’re getting some zzz’s. (via Apartment Therapy)
9. Clipboard Organizing: Get all your term papers off your desk and onto the wall with these clipboards. That way you won’t forget when they’re all due. (via Brit + Co)
10. Out-of-The-Box Cork Board: A cork board is a dorm essential. Save big and inject big style by using cork trivets (like the kind you can find at Ikea) as a cork board instead. (via Ikea)
11. Rug Turned Headboard: Who’da thunk it? A punchy patterned rug makes the perfect twin bed headboard. (via Apartment Therapy)
12. Fun Pom Pom Rug: Protect your dorm floor from Solo Cup spillage with this fun DIY pompom rug. Make a few extras and use them as a wall hanging and a table covering! (via Brit + Co)
13. Colorful Power Cords: Brighten up all your cords with a bit of washi tape here and there. (via Design Love Fest)
14. Handy Wall Organizer: Free up some space off of your puny desk by making your own wall organizing. (via Brit + Co)
15. Lofted Bed: An oldie but goodie — loft your bed for extra space below. Now you’ll have enough room for a cozy hangout or study spot underneath. (via Heavy.com)
How will you style your dorm space? Share your tips with us in the comments below!