Going to college and moving into the dorms is an exciting phase in any teenager’s life. But it doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive if you shop Goodwill. I recently decorated a suite of rooms at the University of Illinois-Chicago.
Today’s dormitories are mini apartments: multiple bedrooms, a common sitting room and a shared bathroom.
I rearranged the furniture in the common area to create an intimate conversation area (just like your living room at home). Adding color is easy. Throw pillows, accessories, art and a sheet turned slip cover.
The funky elephant table adds personality. It would look great painted a bright color, too.
The men’s room is a single. The high bed allows for lots of storage underneath.
UIC school colors are red and blue, so I collected bedding and accessories in traditional red, white and blue.
Who says art has to be a painting in a frame? I found the “open” sign at Goodwill for $4.99. Off the pole, it becomes a bold, graphic statement.
I outfitted the entire room for less than $215. That includes bedding, accessories, sports equipment, floor pillows and closet organizers (not shown).
The double girl’s room is decorated in shades of purple and pink. Each student’s “side” doesn’t have to match, just work together to coordinate your colors.
The desks are identical, but one side is pink, the other purple. If you can’t paint the walls, use accessories to add color. A pretty shawl tied on the back of a basic chair brightens up the space. A fabric bulletin board does the same.
Storage is always an issue in shared dorm rooms. Two dressers fit nicely under the bed, freeing up valuable floor space. This room also had two closets (wow) with room for another dresser (Goodwill $3.99) and hanging storage racks.
The corner is the perfect place to sit and study. A striped pouf ($9.99) matches the lamp shade table I made. Learn how to make your own by clicking here.
Be sure to let your personality shine in your dorm room. Express it in posters on the wall, pillows on the bed and accessories on your desk!
