My first semester of college, I got so caught up in the dorm basics and moving out of my house that I didn't pay attention to making my dorm feel homey. However, by the second semester, I had made adjustments and added some key things that truly brought my dorm room together and made it feel like a home away from home rather than just a space where I slept at school.
1. Rug
A rug is a subtle accent for the room that can make all of the difference.
2. Curtains
Curtains can be used either the conventional way on the window, or above the bed as a canopy.
3. String lights
Often paired with pictures, string lights can make a room feel warm and cozy. I strongly recommend these flower lights found on Amazon, since they even add interest when they are off.
4. Photographs
The key to putting photos in a dorm room is the placement of them and the arrangement. Make sure you have an idea and a theme, and figure out how you are going to lay them out so that it does not simply become a collage of as many pictures as you can fit, but rather so they can fit in an orderly and uniform way that is calming to look at.
5. Many pillows (& husband pillow)
In most dorms, you are limited to your desk chair and your bed in terms of furniture in your room. In order to make your bed double as a comfy space to sit when you aren't going to sleep, the husband pillow acts as a the perfect alternative to a sofa. Also, stock up on the pillows you bring for more comfort (and a cuter bed).
6. Wall decor
A nice arrangement of wall art can also make your dorm feel more homey. In addition to the lights and photos, posters, tapestries, and frames can make a room look more exciting, or simply cover up a chipped and old wall.
7. Favorite Quote
My freshman year, I bought a small frame to put on my desk with a mantra that I really enjoy. Getting something with a quote you enjoy, for example "She believed she could so she did" or "Today is your day" can really boost your mood when placed strategically in your room as the first thing you see when you wake up in the morning.
8. Mini white board
A white board on your door can be used for many purposes: either as a calendar, a list of reminders, or even a chart for chores split between you and your roommate.
9. Throw blanket
Throw blankets are not just cute accessories for your dorm, but they also will be heavily used on cold days, especially if you find an incredibly soft one for your bed.
10. Lap desk
When your desk isn't doing it for you anymore, and the library seems so far away, your bed can become the perfect haven to get some late night work done, whether it be reading, or working on a paper that's due that evening...
11. Storage Ottoman
Storage ottomans are the perfect combination of cute and useful-they can be used as a stepping stool, a place to store extra pillows and items, and even as a seat for friends when they visit.
12. Plants/Flowers
Plants-whether they are fake or real, can really make your room feel more cozy, especially when placed on the windowsill.
