Designing Dorms: Creating Your Home Away From Home

tianafordelight
Jul 1
3 min read

Hey Family!!! It's the first of the month, and that means it's time for a new blog! This is also my birthday month, and I remember my birthday before going to college. I was so excited to start this new adult chapter in my life, and the budding designer in me was looking forward to making my dorm room my own.

A dorm room is a small space that will be your home away from home for the next few years, so it’s essential to make it feel comfortable and personal. Here are some tips on how to design your college dorm room and truly make it your own.

1. Choose a Color Palette

Before diving into decor, consider the color scheme you want for your dorm room. A cohesive color palette can create a calming and inviting atmosphere. Here are some ideas:

Soft Neutrals: Whites, beiges, and grays can create a serene environment.
Bold Colors: Bright colors like teal or mustard can energize the space.
Pastels: Soft pinks, blues, and greens can add a touch of whimsy.

The Color Palette for this space was various purples and sage greens

Wall Space Before: Optimize desk, study and storage space.

2. Personalize Your Walls

Dorm walls can often feel bare and impersonal. Adding personal touches can make the space feel more like home. Consider the following:

Posters and Prints: Hang up your favorite posters or art prints that reflect your personality.
Photo Collages: Create a collage of photos with friends and family to remind you of home.
Wall Decals: These are easy to apply and remove, allowing you to add flair without damaging the walls. There is also amazing peel and stick wallpaper that can be removed with ease once you move out. We used peel and stick for this room.

We added a peel and stick wallpaper in the color palette and added wall art featuring favorite songs.

3. Optimize Your Space

Dorm rooms are typically small, so maximizing your space is crucial. Here are some strategies:

Multi-Functional Furniture: Invest in furniture that serves multiple purposes, like a larger L-Shaped desk to have one side be for eating and the other side for computers or TV viewing.
Vertical Storage: Use shelves and hooks to keep items off the floor and utilize wall space. There are even no wall damage hooks. that will adhere to the wall that can hold a decent weight.
Under-Bed Storage: Utilize bins or drawers that fit under your bed for extra storage.

Incorporate Shelving and storage to keep "all of the things"

4. Create a Cozy Bed Area

Your bed will likely be the focal point of your dorm room, so make it cozy and inviting:

Layered Bedding: Use multiple layers of blankets and pillows for comfort and style.
Decorative Throw Pillows: Add a few decorative pillows that match your color scheme.
Fairy Lights: String lights can create a warm and inviting ambiance.

5. Incorporate Your Interests

Let your hobbies and interests shine through in your decor. Here are some ideas:

Books and Literature: If you love reading, create a small bookshelf or display your favorite novels.
Art and Creativity: If you're an artist, hang your artwork or set up a small art station.
Music: Display your favorite vinyl records or musical instruments.

Conclusion

Designing your college dorm room is an opportunity to express your personality and create a space that feels like home. By incorporating your style, optimizing your space, and adding personal touches, you can transform your dorm into a comfortable and inviting sanctuary. Remember, this is your space—be intentional and make it uniquely yours!

I'd be honored to design your student's dorm room or bedroom transition into a young adult space. Don't hesitate to contact me at info@delightdesignfirm.com or call 909-906-0490. Together, we can make the transition to the new setting smooth and exciting with a beautifully designed dorm room!

Make Every Day Beautiful,

Tiana