5 Simple and Fun Decorating Tips for Your Dorm Room

For many a young person, especially those going away to university, dorm life is one of the first major opportunities to live on one’s own and be fully independent about their choices. That definitely applies to keeping a dorm room and furnishing it and decorating it to one’s preference, although to a limited degree since most dorms don’t allow occupants to make permanent changes to the space. 

 

With the right interior design strategy, even a plain dorm room can be transformed into the perfect temporary home for its occupant—one that’s truly reflective of their personality. If you’re a dormer looking for simple and cost-effective decorating solutions, here are some from DROOL Art that are sure to make your stay in your dorm more enjoyable and worthwhile: 

 

1) Decorate the Walls with Wall Art That Aligns with Your Interests

 

 

You can start by adding your own wall art to your space to make it feel uniquely yours. Select art pieces that reflect your passions, hobbies, and preferences, as these will remind you that you’re living the life you truly want for yourself in your dorm. 

 

For instance, if you’re into the skateboarding scene and appreciate contemporary art, you can check out the skateboard wall art selection at DROOL and choose a deck that fits your vibes. Our skateboard wall art, done by some of the most promising up-and-coming grassroots artists, beautifully features the deep-rooted relationship between art and skateboarding culture. Each of DROOL Art’s decks is made of Canadian maple 7-ply wood, so you can rest assured that they’ll last from the first day of dorm life to the very last.

 

You can also explore art prints or posters to pair together so that you can make a simple gallery wall in your room. Use adhesive hooks or removable adhesive strips to display them if your dorm has strict rules about using nails or damaging the walls. Get the kind that come with sturdy and handsome picture frames, acrylic photo frames, or acrylic poster frames that will keep them in excellent condition throughout your stay, and if you can’t hang them, simply let them lean against the wall on a desk or shelf for a more casual, yet stylish look.

 

2) Create a Dorm Headboard with Your Favourite Photos or Postcards

 

 

Your dorm bed is likely the focal point of the room, so why not make it a space that truly speaks to who you are? One creative way to add a personal touch is to make a DIY headboard using your favourite photos, postcards, or other meaningful mementos. On top of adding a splash of colour and interest to your bedside area, it can serve as a comforting reminder of home, friends, and past adventures.

 

When assembling your headboard, there are plenty of options you can take, depending on your style and dorm rules. You could arrange your photos and postcards directly on the wall in a grid or collage format, for example, using removable adhesive strips or washi tape. You can also pin them to a cork board or string them along a set of fairy lights for a cosy, whimsical effect. 

 

If you're feeling particularly crafty, consider creating a fabric backdrop and attaching your items to it, allowing for easy rearrangement whenever you fancy a change. Your DIY headboard may not only add a personal flair to your dorm but also give you a much-needed creative outlet, allowing you to change the design throughout the year as you collect new memories.

 

3) Add a Cosy Rug to Your Floor

 

 

Dorm floors are often very plain and impersonal, typically made of tile or thin carpet. A colourful, cosy rug for your room can instantly change that and make the space into something much more inviting. 

 

Rugs, especially the type that are soft and plush underfoot, can provide lots of comfort and warmth to an otherwise unassuming dorm room. You might also be surprised at how well they can tie the room together and work with design elements like those on your wall. 

 

In addition to their aesthetic value, rugs can also be very practical additions to a dorm space. They help dampen noise, which is especially useful in shared living environments where sound can easily carry through thin walls. They can also double as spots for lounging, studying, or hosting friends when seating is limited. 

 

When choosing a new rug for yourself, consider the size and layout of your dorm room. Since space is typically limited, a smaller area rug that fits under your bed or desk may work best. If your living arrangements allow you another room to spare, however, a large rug that covers the majority of the floor can give the illusion of a larger space. 

 

4) Use Temporary Wallpaper

 

 

If you're looking to make a bold statement or add a pop of colour to your dorm room, you can also look into temporary wallpaper. As long as your dorm allows it, temporary wallpaper may afford you a great solution for adding personality to your space without causing any long-term damage to the property. Unlike traditional wallpaper, temporary wallpaper is designed to be easily applied and removed, making it a student-friendly and dormer-friendly choice.

 

Temporary wallpaper also comes in a variety of designs, from bold geometric patterns to subtle pastel tones, so there’s something to suit every style. You can use it to achieve a single accent wall that will serve as a major focal point for the room, or if you’re feeling adventurous, cover all four walls for a more dramatic effect. 

 

Floral patterns, tropical motifs, or even minimalist designs can completely shift the mood of your room, helping to make it feel more like your own personal sanctuary. Moreover, light-coloured or patterned wallpaper can create the illusion of a more open, spacious environment, which is great for dorm rooms that feel especially small. 

 

Applying temporary wallpaper is usually a straightforward process, and many peel-and-stick wallpapers are easy to adjust during application, allowing you to reposition them as needed. All the same, it’s a good idea to check the dimensions of your walls and measure carefully before starting. When it’s time to move out, simply peel off the wallpaper and make sure it doesn’t leave a trace.

 

5) Bring a Bit of the Outdoors In

 

 

Lastly, try bringing elements of nature into your dorm room to achieve a more calming and refreshing atmosphere. Indoor plants such as succulents, cacti, or snake plants are perfect for dorm rooms because they’re easy to care for and don’t need constant watering or attention. These plants can also survive in lower light conditions, making them ideal for dorms with limited natural light. 

 

If space is tight, you can still bring a bit of the outdoors inside by opting for smaller potted plants or even hanging planters that won’t take up any surface area. You could also decorate your windowsill with tiny succulents, or place a couple of larger floor plants in the corners of your room to make the space feel airy and more open.

As seen from the pointers above, decorating your dorm room on a student-friendly budget doesn’t have to be complicated or overly burdensome on you. These simple, yet creative ideas will be more than enough to turn your room into a place that’s a joy to stay in during your years as a dormer. 

 

Need more information about DROOL’s skateboard wall art and other art pieces? Feel free to visit our FAQs page for additional details. If you’re interested in adding more wall art to your space but are unsure of what to get, take our Art Finder Quiz and discover pieces that resonate with you and will look great when set up in your dorm.