Whether you’re a freshman or senior in college, living in a dorm can come with many challenges. Now that it’s December, the excitement of the new semester has likely worn off and you might be feeling just a little homesick – especially with the holidays right around the corner. Whether you’re going home for the break, staying in your dorm, or heading on vacation, now is a great time to think about how you want to decorate your dorm when you get back. It’ll be a new year, you’ll have new classes, you might even be moving – it’s an exciting time and you want to love the place you live (even if it’s a small room). 

We’ve been in your shoes and we know how hard it can be to make a dorm feel like home. At Split Rock Homes, we want to give you our best decorating tips on how to make your space feel bigger, brighter, and better. In other words, we want to help you create a space that feels like coming home. Here are a few of our favorite tips so you can start the new year off right with a dorm makeover (here’s a tip – you could even ask for some of this for Christmas). 

1. Hang Some Curtains 

If your roommate is okay with it, hanging some curtains above your window can change the entire feeling of the room. Not only will you have some extra privacy, but the texture and flow of the curtains will add a homey element to your room and give it an extra level of comfort. If you can, hang your curtains 4-6 inches above the window. This will make your ceiling look higher and your room feel bigger. 

2. Don’t Underestimate Greenery 

There’s something about greenery that is simply comforting. Adding some succulents, aloe, fern, fiddle leaf fig, or other plants to your room can help give it a sense of life. And don’t worry – if you have a hard time keeping plants alive as a busy college student, you can always get faux greens. Target has some great budget-friendly options if that’s what you’re looking for! 

3. Pay Attention to the Floor 

Dorm flooring can be less than ideal, especially if you’re living in an older place. You can fix this a few different ways, but our favorite is to simply put down a rug or two. There are so many options when it comes to rugs, and you’ll be sure to find something you love. This adds needed texture and depth to the room as well, making it feel more like home. 

4. Get Some Cozy Pillows 

Pillows are always a great idea if you want to add comfort, texture, and style to your dorm room. There are also thousands of ways to express your personal style through pillows, so if your room is neutral and you want to add some pops of color or fun textures, this is a timeless way to do it. 

5. Add a Lamp (Or Two) 

Lighting is everything when it comes to making your dorm feel like home. If your room’s light isn’t cutting it, try adding a few lamps or even some twinkling lights. Adding light and warmth to the room will help make it feel nice and cozy all year long – especially in the winter months when the days are shorter. 

6. Utilize Light Scents

It’s important to be mindful of your roommates when utilizing any type of scent, but if everyone is on board, having a small candle or light air freshener in your room can make it feel more like home. Scents have a tendency to be nostalgic, and adding that element can bring a sense of comfort into your dorm that you wouldn’t have otherwise. 

7. Hang Pictures and Wall Art 

Many people living in dorms create gallery walls, which can be a great way to add elements of home to your space. We would recommend building a gallery wall with photos of friends, family, and prints you love. You can find fun prints on Etsy and get them printed at your local printing shop – the options are endless and you’ll be able to create something personal. 

8. Get a Cute, Comfy Chair 

You’ll want a place to sit other than your bed, so get a cute, comfortable chair that coordinates with your bedding and room decor. It will add such a fun element to your space and make it feel more cozy. 

9. Love Your Bedding 

Bedding is one of the most important parts of your dorm room. When you have bedding you love, you can build the rest of your decor around it and create the perfect environment for your home away from home. If you’re going to splurge, nice bedding will be worth it. 

10. Keep it Clean 

This isn’t necessarily a design tip, but it will make your college living experience so much better. Keeping your space clean helps you relax, keep a clear headspace, and make it feel like home. 

What have you found beneficial when decorating your dorm room? If you want more design tips or new build inspiration, follow @splitrockcustomhomes on Instagram. We’d love to connect with you!