Starting college is an exciting time filled with new experiences, and creating a comfortable, stylish dorm room can make the transition smoother. Here are some easy-to-execute DIY dorm room design ideas to help you create a space that feels like home!

Floors, Walls, and Windows

Walking into a dorm space really gives meaning to “a blank canvas”.  Of course, you must leave the room as you found it so temporary décor really comes in handy when making a dorm room your own. 

• Flooring: No one likes to wake up and stand on those freezing cold tiles! Choose a rug that complements your bedding and adds a pop of color or a fun pattern to your room. There are so many floor tiles that can be used to cover up those
• Drapes and Curtains: Want to cover up those old blinds that come with your dorm? Use temporary hooks to hold a curtain rod.
• Walls: Command hooks will be your best friend when it comes to decorating your walls! They can be used to hang canvas prints, small white boards or even some fun string lights.

Multi-Functional Furniture

Your dorm comes with your basic necessities, but you may want to compliment the space with some smaller, but functional items.

• Ottoman Storage: Use an ottoman that doubles as storage for extra blankets or books.
• Foldable Furniture: Invest in foldable chairs or tables that can be easily stored when not in use.
• Lofted Bed: If your dorm allows it, loft your bed to create additional space underneath for a desk, seating area, or storage. If you don’t want to raise your bed too high, you can purchase bed risers that will give you up to an additional foot of space underneath to store bins or shoe racks to your liking.

Functional and Stylish Storage Solutions

• Decorative Bins and Baskets: Use colorful bins and baskets to store clothes, books, and other essentials. Stack them or slide them under your bed for easy access and on shelves of closets.
• Extra Shelving: Check out some tall or slim bookshelves to display books, plants, and decorative items without taking up floor space. You can add storage bins to hold smaller items, and it keeps your room looking organized.
• Over-the-Door Organizers: Utilize the back of your door for additional storage with shoe organizers or multi-pocket hangers. You can store so many small items and keep them off your floor!

 Cozy Bedding and Creative Lighting

This may be everyone’s favorite items to pick out because they can really show your personal style! Comfy bedding is the key to making your room feel like home.  Picking some fun accent lamps and lighting can make all the difference in the coziness you are looking for.

• Layered Bedding: Start with a soft mattress topper, then add layers of sheets, a cozy comforter, and plenty of pillows.
• Throw Blankets: Drape a chunky knit blanket or a patterned throw at the end of your bed for added texture and warmth.
• String Lights: Hang fairy lights around your bed frame, along the walls, or draped over a tapestry for a soft, cozy glow.
• Desk Lamp with Personality: Choose a desk lamp that reflects your style, whether it’s sleek and modern or quirky and fun.
• DIY Lanterns: Make your own lanterns using mason jars, battery-operated tea lights, and decorative elements like glitter or paint.

Designing your dorm room is a great opportunity to express your creativity and make a space that’s uniquely yours. With these DIY ideas, you can transform your dorm room into a cozy, stylish, and functional sanctuary without breaking the bank. Happy decorating!