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Design Dilemma: Decorating a Dorm Room
How to Create a Stylish Collegiate Abode
If you've ever lived in a dorm, chances are you have memories of woefully neglected bathrooms, fake wood furniture and institutional white walls. Those were not exactly times of high style. But dear Houzz member 00kate wants better. She posted a photo of her room and asked our design community for ways to infuse it with some much-needed charm. Here are our suggestions. Got some of your own? Let us know in the comments.
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by VisuaLingual
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| Since you can't paint your walls, it's important to add color and interest in other ways to dispel the institutional feel. Create a collage on your walls with inexpensive (or better yet, free) items like concert posters, museum fliers — any ephemera that speaks to you and adds beauty to the space. Arranged thoughtfully, disparate pieces can form a cohesive look that's totally unique to you. |
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| A few extra pillows can take a room from drab to decorated in no time. Pick up a few or sew your own using fabric in colors and patterns you love. |
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A pair of semi-sheer curtains will allow plenty of light in (important in a small space), while still providing privacy.
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| If 00kate could get rid of the hutch above her desk, it would make a huge difference. (Perhaps your school has storage for spare furniture? It never hurts to ask.) The space is too small for that chunky a piece of furniture. Instead, fill the area above the desk with a cork board. Use it to keep track of your schedule and upcoming exams, and leave a little space for inspiration culled from magazines or elsewhere. You can also cover the cork with patterned fabric for even more interest. |
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| It's not for everybody, but lofting or bunking your beds can dramatically change the perceived size of the room. You could even end up with enough space for a study nook or seat for guests. |
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by Vintage Renewal
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| Cost-saving tip: Scour thrift stores for small furnishings and accessories. They'll add charm and personality without breaking the bank. |
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by Tamar Schechner
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| If you've got closet doors, keep 'em closed to keep your room looking neat and tidy. The exterior can get dressed up with a hook (if you're allowed to screw or nail anything in) or, as shown here, a collage of patterned paper. |
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| If there aren't any doors on the closets, hide the mess by installing a curtain rod and a pair of curtains. Go for a color or pattern that ties together with the bedding or rug to bring the design full circle.
The in-room bar to the left? Probably best to skip that little design detail for now. |
by Niche Interiors
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You can get away with a lot in a dorm room — after all, you're young! So make the most of it by bringing in an eclectic mix of colors. But for bigger purchases, like, say, a rug or chair, stick to neutral tones or black or white. Go nuts instead with less expensive accessories that can be switched out easily if you tire of them.
How would you spruce up a dorm room? Share your tips below.
Next: More small and affordable ideas
How would you spruce up a dorm room? Share your tips below.
Next: More small and affordable ideas
Ideabook published on March 31, 2011.
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PS: Very subtle re: the in-room bar, Lily. Well played ;)
Plants are a fabulous idea.