Dorm Room Decor

In just a few weeks students will be returning back to school to start the fall semester.  Wether this is your first year of college or you're a returning student, I have three designs and a list of design tips for your dorm room or small space that will surely get you an A+ in style!

I say this all the time, but I truly feel that the home is the most important place that we live are lives.  When you're away at school your dorm room becomes your home.  You may just have a small space to work with, but it can easily be transformed into the perfect nest to study, sleep, eat, and hang out with friends.

Some of my best tips for creating a creating a beautiful dorm room are:

1. Coordination.  Everything shouldn't be matchy-matchy, but try to get bedding, curtains, and decor that all work with each other color-wise and style-wise.  Trust me- having a room full of hot pink and black zebra stripe will not be as cool as you think it is a few weeks into the semester.  
2. A small, comfortable chair.  A comfortable upholstered chair I feel is a must to use at your desk, to use as a reading chair, or as extra seating when you have friends over.  (But lets be real, it will probably just become an extra clothes hamper during mid-terms and finals).  You don't have to spend a lot of money on it, but the great thing is you'll probably be able to use past college if you invest in a nice one.
3. A nice table lamp.  I'm not talking about a task light, desk lamp.  Your dorm room is your study, bedroom, and living room.  Lighting can totally change the feel of a space.  A beautiful lamp will help create a more homey, inviting space.
4. Mirrors.  They can be your best friend in a small space creating the illusion that a room is twice as big as it really is and also to reflect natural light back into the space.  Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but a nice, big, full length mirror is also very functional.
5. An area rug and wall tapestry.  Rugs can cover ugly dorm floors and help to bring more style into your space.  Tapestries or wall hangings can do the same for walls.  Also, they are excellent at dampening noise.

My first design is what I call "Urban Bohemian". The boho style is very popular right now and is perfect for a small space.  Full of fun patterns and vibrant colors, this design is perfect for free spirits.

A geometric, black and white rug anchors the room.  A solid, neutral color chair doesn't compete with the patterns of the accent pillows.  Mix colorful geometrics, paisleys, ikats, and animal prints to get this eclectic look.

For those who love nature and crave a serene environment, "Natural Beauty" is the design for you.  This design will make you feel more at peace in your tiny dorm room and bring a spa-like zen to your space.  Use scenes from nature for your wall art and tapestry to bring the outdoors in.  Natural fibers and soothing neutrals mixed with greens help to reinforce the design concept.

For the sophisticated student who dreams of studying abroad in France, "Parisian Shabby Chic" brings fabulous style to your room.  

A traditional rug anchors the room and softens the floor.  A tufted chair adds comfort and style.  A crystal chandelier lamp brings in sparkle and soft light.  Lace curtains and a view of the Eiffel Tower are an absolute must.  

All items pictured in the three designs are from Target, Ikea, and Urban Outfitters.  The accent pillows are from my new collection of custom, hand-made designer pillow covers that will be debuting soon in my online boutique, Tomorrow's Find, and will also be available in my shop on Etsy.  If interested in any of the designs, please contact me for pricing.

I wish everyone the best of luck for the upcoming school year!  I hope my designs help to inspire you to create a beautiful space away at school or in your small space at home.

-Amanda