Dorm Room Decorating

Moving into a dorm room is an exciting milestone, but let’s be honest—the space can feel a little basic. The good news? You don’t need a massive budget or professional interior design skills to transform your dorm into a stylish and functional haven. Whether you're aiming for a cozy retreat, a modern minimalist look, or a vibrant space that reflects your personality, I’ve got you covered!

1. Start with a Cohesive Color Palette

Your dorm room may be small, but that doesn’t mean it has to feel cluttered or chaotic. Stick to a cohesive color scheme to create visual harmony. Neutral tones paired with a pop of color—like navy blue and mustard yellow, or soft greys with blush pink—can make your space feel chic and coordinated.

2. Smart Storage = A Clutter-Free Room

Dorm rooms often lack storage, but don’t let that hold you back! Here are a few clever solutions:

• Under-the-bed storage: Slide storage bins or rolling drawers under your bed to stash extra clothes, snacks, or school supplies.
• Over-the-door organizers: Perfect for shoes, toiletries, and accessories.
• Multi-purpose furniture: Opt for ottomans with storage inside or a foldable desk that doubles as a vanity.

3. Make Your Bed the Focal Point

Your bed takes up the most space in your dorm, so make it a stylish centerpiece! Layer cozy textures with a duvet, throw blankets, and decorative pillows. To maximize vertical space, consider a lofted bed with a study or lounge area underneath.

4. Personalize with Wall Decor

Blank walls? No problem! Try these easy ideas to make your room feel like home:

• Peel-and-stick wallpaper: It’s removable, renter-friendly, and instantly adds personality.
• Gallery wall: Frame prints, posters, or personal photos to create a stylish display.
• LED string lights: Soft lighting makes your space warm and inviting (bonus: they double as mood lighting for late-night study sessions).

5. Add Greenery for Freshness

Small plants or faux greenery breathe life into a dorm room. Succulents, snake plants, or hanging ivy are easy to maintain and add a touch of nature to your space.

6. Define Your Work & Relaxation Zones

A dorm room serves multiple purposes—study space, social hub, and relaxation haven. Define these areas with small touches:

• Desk essentials: A stylish lamp, an ergonomic chair, and organizers to keep your study space tidy.
• Lounge corner: Add a cozy rug and a bean bag or floor cushion for a comfy hangout spot.

Your dorm is your home away from home, so have fun making it feel like YOU. Whether it’s adding personal photos, swapping out standard furniture for stylish alternatives, or creating a cozy nook for relaxation, a little creativity can go a long way.

Which decorating ideas are you excited to try? Let me know in the comments!

Dorm Decorating Assistance:

If you would like help with your dorm room or are a parent to a college student and do not have a lot of time to shop and pull together the dorm room items, we can help with our three available options below:

1. Dorm Room Shoppable Boards
   Get ready-to-shop, expertly styled boards featuring dorm-friendly essentials—think furniture, decor, and storage solutions, all handpicked for style and function. Perfect for those who want a polished look without the guesswork. Available to shop here: Mulberry Lane Interiors | Studio MINE
2. Custom Dorm Mood Board + Shoppable Links
   You tell us your vision, we bring it to life with a personalized mood board and direct shopping links. Whether you want cozy, modern, or bold aesthetics, we’ll tailor it to fit your vibe and budget.
3. Personal Shopping & Curation (Local Drop-Off Available)
   Want a hands-on, stress-free experience? We’ll personally shop and curate everything you need, delivering a fully styled dorm within a 200-mile radius of Roseville, CA!

If you would like to work with us or have any questions, please email sarah@mulberrylaneinteriorsllc.com.