A great looking dorm room is possible; it just takes work and a bit of cash.
At first glance, that dorm room is a horrible disappointment. They never look like that on TV or in the movies. Even some of the most “modern” dorm rooms are pretty dismal and depressing and they never feel like home, at least not right away.
There are a ton of articles that can help you make your dorm feel like home or give you tips on how to decorate a dorm room on a budget, but what if you don’t care about the cost? What if you want the most tricked out pad on campus and you’ll do what you have to to get it? If that’s your approach then we’ve got some tips to help you create a dorm room to die for.
Unfortunately, the first step requires research and rules. You’re going to have to figure out what your university allows in the dorm rooms. Many of them let you change your bedding situation; some allow wall painting; others restrict you from hanging anything on your walls; it all depends on your institution. Even though it may be tempting to break the rules, they are there to protect you (usually from fires) and it’s not worth spending money for an improvement only to have it confiscated.
Once you know what your dorm allows, it's time to set some lofty goals. By putting your bed on a loft you immediately increase your living space and give your room a bit of visual character. Make your loft sexier than the average by getting a designer loft that includes dresser drawers and storage space and go for color rather than natural wood.
Next, ditch the dressers. Most universities provide you with standard, beat-up, old dressers that were never attractive and are barely functional. If you can avoid getting a new dresser you are giving yourself even more floor space and creating a greater illusion of space. To create even more visual interest and give yourself the storage space you need, create a platform that will rest over storage bins or premade drawers. Make sure your platform is sturdy and well supported and it can even be used as a lounge area. Again, stay away from the natural wood look; add some appeal with a great paint job.
Light it up! A great way to make the entire room look different is by changing the lighting situation. Purchase some lamps and try not to use the provided lighting except when studying. You’ll be amazed by how homey lamps make your place and how soft the lighting is. Creative types can play with spots and gels and get even more variety in their room’s look, the right gels and spots can even change wall colors.
Accessorize for comfort and appeal. Large throw pillows provide extra seating for guests, while a small buffet cart well stocked with snacks makes your dorm room more appealing to visitors. Cater to your friends and yourself by creating an environment that is unusual, vivid, welcoming and full of lavish surprises.