Stylish dorm decor you'll want to take to your next place too
These versatile pieces level up any shape or size of space
Whether you dwell on or off campus during the school year, your room should be anything but boring; between sleeping, studying, and hanging out with your crew, you're going to be spending a massive amount of time in there. That's why we're all for you turning your dorm into your little homey haven with some practical and eye-catching nice-to-haves.
And while you're not necessarily investing in pieces you'll have a lifetime, you don't want to waste your money on things that may never work in another space. Ahead, decor ideas that will take your space from basic to beautiful, and that can easily transition with you to your next abode.
A decorative rug can really bring your place together in a cozy way, plus it can help to soften up your floors for those nights when you just don't feel like sitting on a chair — or when your snug dorm room gatherings exceed your number of seats available!
Printed Persian Rug, $29.95, Simons
A desk lamp is must-have for late night cramming sessions while your roommate is sleeping. Bonus: this sleek design doubles as a smartphone charger via wireless charging and a USB port built into the lamp.
Riggad LED Work Lamp With Wireless Charging, $79.99, Ikea
Of course you need a basic pillow to sleep on every night, but a few standout throw pillows added to your dorm bedding mix will instantly boost the style level of your petite home. They're also ideal for creating a comfy reading nook for curling up among after classes. If you're on the hunt for something showy, JUMUU has more that 40 throw pillow cover sets, from this chic diamond pattern to abstract botanicals.
JUMUU Set of 4 Cotton-Linen Decorative Throw Pillow Covers, $26.99, Amazon
Whether placed in the middle of your room, under your desk or in a little-used corner, a storage ottoman is great not just for extra hidden storage space, but it also provides more seating. Bonus: place a decorative tray on top for additional surface space. This marbled number is collapsible, so it's super easy to transport for your next move!
15-Inch Marble Collapsible Storage Ottoman by Red Label, $15.88, Walmart
Simple, yet oh-so striking. Use this neutral woven wall tapestry to add some handcrafted, bohemian flair to your room.
Mkono 2-Piece Macramé Woven Wall Hanging, $40.10, Amazon
Looking for something more loud and colourful? Something along the lines of these printed fabric wall hangings should do the trick. Drape it on your wall now, and use it as a tablecloth, picnic blanket or beach throw later.
yanQxlzbiu Wall Hanging Tapestries, $8.49 each, Amazon
If the dorm rules allow it, a rice cooker is a handy appliance to have for feeding yourself on those days when you just don't feel like hitting up the cafeteria. Available in five different colours, this compact size is perfect for small room dimensions and for that person who never needs to cook much more than a cup of rice.
Dash Mini Rice Cooker, $67, Ebay
It's always a win-win when something is both fashionable and functional, so why not have something nice to stare at when your laundry is piling up.
White & Grey Woven Laundry Hamper, $19.99, HomeSense
An essential oil diffuser can really help to improve the quality of stuffy, dry dorm air. Made from hand-blown marble glass, this shapely number will look like gorgeous art on your nightstand, kitchen counter or desk.
GreenAir Marble Diffuser, $64.50, Indigo
Natasha Bruno is a Toronto-based freelance writer with an obsession for beauty, health & wellness, women's issues, and curly hair. Her byline can also be found in The Kit, the Toronto Star, S/ magazine, Sharp Magazine, Bustle, FASHION magazine, among other outlets. Follow her journey on Instagram @natashajbruno.