Dorm Room Decorating Tips for your Students

Many of your students will be leaving home for the first time when they go off to College. Here are some great tips from Rooms to Go on decorating their dorm room:

Make the Most of the Space

Square footage is at a premium in university housing, so having some dorm room furniture that can serve multiple roles is key. Whether they want a bed that doubles as a couch or a convenient footrest with hidden storage for game controllers and spare blankets, picking items that maximize their shared space can go a long way.

Beds for Their Dorm Room

Everyone wants a cozy place to sleep, especially hardworking students. There are a range of options that can help them feel refreshed while getting the most out of their space, so finding the best bed is a breeze.

Loft Beds: These raised beds come with an array of features that allow them to save space, as well as personalize it. Choose from options with a built-in desk and sturdy bookshelves so theycan stay neat and organized. Some lofts even have attached seating so they can lounge while they binge-watch their favorite shows between classes.
Futons: A convertible futon offers the comfort of a bed and convenience of a sofa in one compact design. Equipped with plenty of plush cushioning, these pieces create a place to kick back with their roommate or catch a quick catnap before the big exam.
Bunk Beds: Another possibility, if their roomie agrees, would be to get a bunk bed. Ideal for smaller layouts, these beds provide a cushy spot to rest, as well as leaving space for desks, chairs and kitchen appliances in the room. Need storage? Models featuring a trundle can hold clothing and linens.

Dorm Room Desks

Almost as important as the bed is an area to do schoolwork. While most campuses have student lounges or a library students can go to for a few hours, having their own central hub can help them focus when it’s crunch time.

Computer Desk: The perfect size for a laptop, these desks provide a fuss-free way to study in style. With their spacious tops, students have ample room for their computer, as well as any notebooks, textbooks or course material they may need. Add a desk lamp for late-night cram sessions.
Storage Desk: Storage desks offer a place for them to tuck away the clutter when guests stop by. Open shelves are a great way to keep track of binders and loose papers, while large drawers are a handy spot for books, office supplies and any odds and ends they may have lying around.
L-Shaped Desk: Have an empty corner of the room? An L-shaped desk may be just the right fit. Built with enough room for two computers, some models allow them and their roommate to work side-by-side comfortably. With the additional space, they will have enough surface area for all of their course materials, books and packets of ramen.

Other Dorm Room Essentials

Want to make their dorm feel like home? Picking out unique accessories, whether it’s lighting or accent pieces, can allow their personality to shine through. With multiple hues and designs, there are many ways to make their dorm decor special.

Ottomans: A useful choice for any dorm, an ottoman can function in many different ways. Use one as a footrest when friends come over or as a coffee table by using it to hold snacks and drinks. Some types also have storage for even more functionality.
Throw Pillows: Add a touch of style to their abode with a few chic toss pillows. They can pile these cushions in a corner to create a cozy reading spot or scatter them over their bed to transform their mattress into a comfy seating.
Rugs: Spice up their floors with a rug. Select from an assortment of shades and patterns to complement their design. If they share their room, they can also use these carpets to establish clear sections so that everybody has their own area.
Lighting: The harsh overhead fluorescents in many dorms can be less than ideal. Counteract this effect with ambient lighting from desk and floor lamps. This way, they can turn up the brightness for group study sessions, lower it for a relaxing evening in or use focused lighting to read in bed.
Wall Decor: Upgrade from the typical dorm decor of unframed posters with some artwork. Try hanging a couple of vibrant prints to add some color to neutral palettes. Mirrors are another stylish option that also have the benefit of making the room seem larger.

Remember to check the school’s guidelines when selecting dorm decor, especially before putting holes in the walls. Consider using damage-free adhesive hooks to prevent surprise expenses at the end of the semester.

Ace Their Dorm Design

When deciding what to take with them to their new dorm, always consider versatility. Look for multipurpose items to make the most of their space, and keep in mind how they will need the room to function. With these dorm room ideas, they will be ready to design the perfect spot to sleep, study, relax and entertain.