9 Essential Dorm Decorating Tips From a College Housing Design Expert

There are a lot of things to think about when you’re preparing to move into a dorm. Whether it’s your first time living in a dorm or you’re a seasoned pro, making the most of a small, perhaps shared, space is a feat.

That’s why we were excited to connect with Liz Toombs of PDR Interiors, who specializes in sorority and fraternity housing design.

Here’s everything Toombs shares about how to make a small shared space cute and organized.

Benches and stools are essential

If you’re looking for extra seating in your dorm room, Toombs suggests looking for items that can serve multiple purposes.

“When looking for dorm room furniture, remember that less is more,” says Toombs. “When you’re working with a very small room like a dorm, you want to maximize your space as much as possible.”

This is also why Toombs recommends looking for benches and ottomans with built-in storage. They’re definitely a must-have space-saving piece.

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Make the most of the space under the bed

Toombs notes that elevating or propping up a bed in a dorm room is fairly common, but it’s important to make the most of the area.

She suggests looking for plastic storage options, ideally ones that are stackable. She particularly likes storage cubes for this reason—they can be used for everything from dry foods to toiletries to school supplies.

“Whenever you can get multiple layers and stacks of stuff organized, do it,” says Toombs.

Improve the furniture provided at the school

Let’s be honest, most colleges aren’t known for providing students with fancy furniture. But Toombs says you can still make these pieces work—and you can think outside the box when it comes to decorating your dorm room.

For example, if you don’t like the idea of ​​having to put on makeup in a shared bathroom every day, Toombs says you can easily repurpose a cabinet that would normally sit on a piece of fixed furniture.

She suggests using it as a vanity in the room by adding a makeup mirror and storing makeup in drawers. If a makeup station isn’t a priority, turn it into a tea or coffee making area with a small coffee maker or kettle and stackable cups.

You can never have too many pillows.

Most dorm rooms are the epitome of a blank sheet of paper, with everything painted in the same neutral tones. That’s why Toombs says pillows are an especially great way to add color, decoration, and functionality.

“The more pillows, the better!” says Toombs. “They’re an inexpensive way to decorate a room and a great way to show off a trendy color or pattern—think sequins, feathers, etc.”

Take off the blanket

While comforters can be warm, they’re also quite bulky—and Toombs says you should choose bedding that’s as easy to wash as possible.

Instead, choose blankets, duvet covers, and comforters that come with separate covers.

Add a rug (or rugs)

If your room isn’t quite right, Toombs says it might be time to add a rug. “I always recommend putting a rug down to style the space and make it feel more like home,” she says.

Toombs also notes the importance of keeping your dorm clean and choosing items that are easy to maintain. She suggests stain-resistant fabrics like nylon or wool, or consider indoor-outdoor options, which are great for high-traffic spaces like dorm rooms.

Upgrade your wardrobe

Dorm room closets can be especially challenging. Often, you’re trying to cram a lot of stuff into a fairly small space. That’s why Toombs suggests bringing your own organizing system.

Cheap shelves with fabric drawers are especially versatile, and Toombs notes that shoe storage is also worth considering. But one thing most people don’t think about is how dimly lit dorm closets can be.

“Consider installing motion-sensor LED lights,” says Toombs. “They’re easy and cost-effective.”

It’s all about the accessories

While you’re technically not allowed to nail furniture to the walls in most dorm rooms, Toombs says wall decor is still key to making your dorm room feel like home. She suggests using Velcro in particular and arranging a mix of personal photos, tapestries, and macrame.

Additionally, Toombs says faux succulents are a great way to add some greenery even if your college student isn’t a green thumb. Metallic accents are also timeless and fun, while string lights are perfect for creating ambiance.

Start early

If possible, Toombs suggests starting dorm room shopping well in advance. This will give you enough time to compare and contrast your options and shop around for prices before the new school year.

“Since most students only live in dorms for a maximum of one to two years, you don’t need to spend a lot of money,” she says.

If you can’t get your specific room plan down yet, you can at least start looking at options and making a list over the summer, Toombs says.