How to make your new student bedroom feel like a home from home
Moving into university halls is an incredible milestone, but sometimes your new digs can feel a little cramped and uninspiring. While you’re unlikely to be able to paint the walls or drill holes to hang things up, you can use soft lighting, rich textures and calming colour palettes to turn even the most basic room into an anxiety-reducing haven.
From cosy bedding to must-have desk lamps (and all the essentials in between), read on for tips on how to decorate your uni bedroom on a modest student budget.
Make your own bed time
Show that no-frills single bed some love with comfy pillows (washable, ideally) and a cloud-like duvet. Make a statement with super-versatile, colour-pop cushions or striking patterned duvet covers. Our top tip? Don’t forget the mattress protector. You can thank us later.
Desk buddies
Give yourself the best chance of getting some work done by pimping your desk. A laptop and speaker are non-negotiables, while good lighting – such as our bestselling Mushroom Table Lamp – is a great way to add warmth to your workspace walls. There’s never enough storage in halls, so add chic storage boxes to keep things tidy, and pop up a pinboard to keep your plans and ideas in order.
Get personal with the details
You might not be able to put nails in the walls, but that doesn’t mean you can’t put your stamp on a room. Art prints or framed photos add personality, while mirrors help make a small space appear larger and brighter, and can easily be leant against a wall. Bring the outside in – and reduce stress – with some low-maintenance houseplants. Or, if you’re looking for the same calming feeling but with zero fuss, opt for artificial plants or dried flowers.
Cosy does it
Ancient carpet in your halls or house share? Cover it up with a rug that will become a stylish centrepiece, then add warming blankets or throws to your bed or chair and a few cushions to bring your room together.
Don’t leave home without…
These practical bits of kit will seriously enhance your university experience. Make sure they’re on your checklist, and then tick off the rest of your uni essentials ready for Freshers’ Week to begin.
Uni room styling FAQs
Are candles and incense sticks allowed in university accommodation?
No, candles and incense sticks are strictly not allowed in university accommodation due to fire safety rules and tenancy contracts. Most rooms are fitted with sensitive smoke and heat alarms, which can be easily triggered, potentially evacuating the entire building – this can lead to big fines. To scent your room safely, opt for an electric diffuser instead.
How do I make a tiny, windowless or dark student room feel bigger?
You can use big wall mirrors, soft layered lights and LED strip lights under your bed or desk to create a soft glowing effect – these smart hacks reflect light and trick your brain into seeing more space. Plants in pots also make a space feel bigger and less claustrophobic.
What is the best way to hang up photos without staining or damaging the walls?
You can use poster putty and picture-hanging wire or hooks, but we’d recommend just leaning artwork against the wall, on a desk or opting for photo frames that you can put on pre-existing shelves.
