Take a dorm room from dreary to designer in a weekend – I’ll show you how, including all of my favorite dorm room finds to disguise provided furniture to maximize style and function!
The secret to a perfect dorm room is blending comforts of home, personal style, storage to maximize space. You don’t have to sacrifice style in a small space! A few meaningful pieces go a long way. I’m sharing my favorite dorm room essentials including no nail, removable solutions and layers to design your dream dorm room.
Tip
Before purchasing furniture and decor, I design rooms online. I add inspiration photographs and favorite finds, to Canva, piecing them together to narrow my selection and ensure a cohesive design. You can learn How to Make an Interior Design Mood Board here!
Set the Foundation
College dorm rooms tend to have basic tile that feels blah. A rug is the perfect piece to set the foundation for the room. It makes a significant impact, disguises the floor, adds texture, color and comfort! It defines the space and makes it look and feel softer.
I like to integrate washable rugs or indoor outdoor rugs (that repel dirt and can be hosed clean). They’re affordable and practical. Choose a rug that is large enough to allow at least 50% of the feet of each furniture piece (like dorm beds) to rest on it. The larger the rug, the larger it will make a room look. Small rugs can make a room feel even smaller. Refer to my rug size guide for the perfect fit!
Headboards
Headboards are the backdrop for your bed – and room! A headboard frames a bed and balances the room. It becomes a focal point that contrasts stark walls, drawing your eye in.
Wall mounted no-nail headboards or plush headboards, also known as headboard pillows, are easy ways to elevate a dorm room bed.
Layer in Luxurious Style
Bedding is where personality comes to life. The layers invite you into the room. Choose sheets that showcase your personality in your favorite color palette and patterns. Layer in a plush duvet that makes you want to dive in. Crisp corners make it feel polished, topped with a soft throw blanket and pillows.
I personally prefer duvets because they add longevity and duvet covers are convenient to clean – especially in small dorm washer and dryers. Double up your duvet for an extra plush plunge-worthy bed or choose a max fill insert.
Mattress Protector
Rise and Shine
Level up! Lift the bed for extra storage and conceal with a skirt!
Double Duty Desk
A desk doubles as a vanity, making it easy and convenient to get ready, without stepping into a shared space. Drawer organizers and dividers add an abundance of storage for skincare, makeup, hair tools, product and more.
Mirrors
Looks can be deceiving! Double the space – to the eye by integrating mirrors into your decor. It’s one of my favorite ways to make a small room appear larger. Similar to bedding, I like to layer them in to create the illusion of space and add convenience.
Amazon Dorm Finds
Visit my curated collection of budget friendly dorm finds on Amazon!
Storage
Shop My Favorites on ShopMy
I have curated more of my favorites from an array of stores including budget friendly options on my ShopMy Storefront!
SEE THEM ALL
Worried About Adhesive Strips?
You’ll love this tip! Apply painter’s tape first! Then, adhere your adhesive strip to the tape to prevent damage to walls.
