Bedrooms
September 2, 2016
9 Dorm Room Decorating Hacks
Consider the dorm room as a perfect blank canvas for test-driving a fledgling decor sensibility. It’s pretty democratic since everyone is given the same raw materials, and it can be freeing to convey personality without permanence. Here are quick, inexpensive ways to customize a space and carve out a signature look (and check out the on-trend temporary dorm room decorating ideas in this video from H&H’s Joel Bray and Jennifer Koper).
Let’s start with the bed — it’s the focal point of the room, so don’t settle for dull. Here Ikea’s Malm headboard was given the star treatment by blogger Sugar & Cloth with a panel of metallic adhesive vinyl that peels off afterwards.
These Magical Thinking tapestries have been popping up all over Pinterest, and they pack the graphic punch of artwork, but also double as a throw, bedspread, as well as a festival or beach blanket, all for less than $60. This versatile boho staple will dress up a bland wall or disguise an ugly headboard.
Everyone knows that nail holes are a big no-no in dorms. Closet space is at a premium too, so it makes sense to turn hats into an art installation, rather than cramming them onto a high shelf that’s a hassle to access. This idea from Dormify uses clear hooks that won’t damage wall surfaces.
Speaking of walls, say a previous occupant has left yours in less than pristine condition. Tsk. Well, nix the sour grapes in favor of an easy camo-confetti treatment that’s festive and fun all year long. All that’s needed to make this wall from Beci Orpin’s book Find and Keep: construction paper and Blu-Tack. It doesn’t get much simpler.
Geo shapes continue to be a hot topic. This photo display from The Caldwell Project kills two birds with one stone: it makes a space feel personal, and doubles as wall art. Bronze jewelry cord and stretchy rope were used instead of yarn so it looks like wire. (Full disclosure: this project requires nails so apply it to a bulletin board rather than a wall.)
Yes, that is a hula hoop. If there’s no bulletin board in sight, make a focal point over your desk using a copper spray-painted hula, ribbon and cardstock frames. Get the step-by-steps from Brit + Co.
Now to the one item that will truly transform a dorm room: removable vinyl wallpaper. One high-impact feature wall can be papered in minutes until it’s time for the new tenant to make their mark, and you can start fresh again next year.
Shelving backs, drawer bottoms, vanities, air conditioning units…. this stuff can pretty up anything — just be sure to use it on a clean, smooth surface.
You know that hideous mini-fridge wedged under your desk? Boom. Instant statement.