When it comes to student accommodations, whether in a university residence, college dorm or rental apartment, you want to tread lightly. You want to add comfort, style and personalization to what can traditionally be a bit of an esthetically bland space, but you don’t want to leave too big of a footprint either.
To transform your student’s blank slate into a space they’ll be happy to come home to after a long day of classes and activities, try the following tips.
1. Add an area rug for some softness underfoot
To introduce a bit of softness and the feeling of home to your student’s dorm room, start with an area rug. The size you choose will depend on the amount of floor space available. A 5’ x 7’ rug is likely as large as you’ll need, as this will be big enough to feel substantial and cover a good amount of flooring.
The Brinoy area rug features a modern black and white geometric design that would make a great addition to any space. It is medium weight and technically could be used indoors or out, which means it is durable and able to withstand traffic. It is machine woven with no pile and a rubber backing. It also feels wonderful underfoot.
The Gerdie rug is slightly larger, at 5’3” x 7’3”. It is a great choice for those who love the soft gray, cream and charcoal colour combination. It features an abstract, contemporary design and a plush 30 mm pile with a jute backing. Machine-woven and made of polyester, this rug is as practical as it is pretty.
2. Layer the bed with a throw blanket
Chances are your student will want to feel cosy when they’re studying. They can leave their bedding intact and use a throw blanket instead, layering it over their bed linens, draping it over their desk chair or laying it across an accent chair, if they have one. Be sure to pick a fabric they’ll love the feel and weight of, as this is one item they’ll be using a lot and touching constantly.
The Leonita throw blanket is the ultimate cosy piece they’ll be happy to have once the temperature cools. This gray tone-on-tone beauty is hand-woven and has playful chunky tassels. It is made of cotton and done in a diamond fringe design.
Another great option is the Haiden throw blanket, a dreamy, sophisticated piece in ivory and taupe. This luxurious soft-weave throw has a subtle striped pattern and a lighter weight feel.
3. Accessorize with an accent pillow or two
Your student will definitely want to be able to study, lounge and stream movies in comfort, and accent pillows can represent both style and substance. They can brighten up a space by adding a pop of colour or tone down a room that’s already filled with print and pattern when done in a neutral fabric.
The Dreamers pillow features an inspirational saying in a cheery light teal and white colour combination. The quote is done in a velvet applique, lending it a lovely texture in addition to the motivational message. The pillow is 20” x 20”, made of a cotton cover and soft poly-fil, with a zipper closure.
The Gariland pillow will be the one that is likely to be grabbed first. This soft, plushy faux rabbit fur pillow done in a crisp white is made of polyester and is solid on the reverse side. It works with any style of décor and is especially cozy to snuggle with on cool nights.
4. Ensure there is great lighting
Don’t risk eye strain because there isn’t enough light. With a reading light or table lamp, your student can take a break from the harsh overhead lighting to add task lighting that’s a bit more soothing and is easy on the eyes. They can also switch up the mood from day to night, creating a relaxing evening atmosphere in their dorm that is more conducive to getting a good night’s sleep.
The Dorcher table lamp in antique gray is a classic piece with a clean look that has a metal base and a fabric shade. It’s a handsome fixture that will really add to any décor.
The Maire table lamp makes a statement. It has a black and gold finish that stands out, introducing a slightly urban industrial design. Made of metal, it has a modified drum shade and offers a three-way switch.
5. Hang—or lean—some non-damaging wall décor
No one should have to stare at bare walls, so if your student is craving a bit of style invest in a mirror or hang a piece of art. If you do want to hang something, use a hook that is specially designed to avoid damaging walls and be sure to choose a piece that is lighter in weight. Remember that leaning décor is arguably more fashionable; there’s no need to fuss with hanging a mirror when you can simply lean it against a wall or on top of a dresser. The same goes for artwork—not only can you lean framed or canvas paintings or photos, layering them creates a much more interesting and current look.
The Jacee accent mirror is a great-looking piece that can be hung vertically or horizontally. The antiqued white finish adds a subtle bit of colour and works well with any other hues you happen to have in the room. It’s a generous size too, at nearly 30” x 40”.
This Taylen wall art will add beautiful texture to any dorm. The boho-chic wall hanging features soothing black, gray and natural tones and includes a braided cord for hanging. Made of polyester, it is lightweight and soft to the touch.
Ashley HomeStore North offers a wide range of furniture pieces, artwork, decorative accents and storage solutions for every room—including dorms.
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