Student House Decoration - Where to Begin
So you've landed a place in student accommodation and you're anxious to make your new student house into a cosy, welcoming space with decoration that feels like home? Here are some student house decoration tips to set up your perfect student room decoration.
We also included a few friendly reminders about what student room accessories are allowed and what's prohibited in your student room.
Know The Decoration Rules for your Student House
Before you start decorating, it's important to familiarize yourself with the rules of your halls of residence, your tenancy agreement or ask your accommodation team. Knowing what's allowed can save you the heartache of buying decorations that aren't allowed in your student house.
Once you're clear on the rules, read on for some dorm room organization ideas and let the decorating fun begin.
What is NOT allowed in Uni Halls
Let's start with listing the items that would NOT be allowed in university residences. These include items such as space heaters, electric blankets, fairy lights, and cooking equipment including kettles. This is because they can cause overheating and may not comply with relevant health, safety, and fire regulations.
You will regularly see 'fairy lights' listed on student advice forums as a nice decorative item to pack. However, you may be asked to take these down as they may present a fire risk if hung near flammable material such as bedding, so check first before you buy. Or buy battery-operated fairy lights only.
Check out our FAQs on our website for more information on what decoration and accessories are and aren't allowed in your student house.
Start with a Plan and a Budget
Before you start shopping for furniture and dorm room decor and accessories, make a plan for the overall look and feel you want to achieve. Take into account your personal style, your budget, and the size of your room.
Draw a rough layout of your room and decide on the placement of key items such as your bed, desk, and storage space.
If you're really organized like me, use the images on the accommodation page of your university website to give you an idea and start planning your dorm room decor ideas before you move in to university.
Tips for Student Room Decoration
Here are some creative student home decor ideas to enhance your dorm room:
Displaying items:
University-managed accommodation may have some restrictions on room decorations and accessories - particularly on the walls. It is a good idea to stock up on blu-tack, command strips or tacks so you don’t damage the walls. Avoid using tape or glue as you may have to pay for repairs at the end of your tenancy.
Stock up on plenty of magnets, pins or hooks for your notice board or to use on the fridge door in the kitchen.
You can download our student meal planner and shopping list when you sign up for Member Resources and stick them on your fridge door or cupboard to write down your shopping list as soon as you realise you have run out of an item. This tool is the height of efficiency for students!
Choosing your bed linen:
Under-bed storage :
Storage Boxes:
Over-Door Hanging Storage:
Plants:
Displaying Your Photos
Making It Smell Nice
The Benefits of Essential Oils for Students
Certain essential oils can help with focus, concentration, calmness, and general wellbeing, such as the following which are considered the best essential oils for students:
Scent | Benefits |
Lavender | Calming, good for sleep or anxiety |
Peppermint | Helpful for studying, staying attentive and improving memory |
Rosemary | Keeps you alert and improves concentration |
Lemon | Helps boost your mood, good for depression or feeling down. Good for boosting the immune system and preventing infections. |
Grapefruit | Helps you to wake up and feel refreshed and improves your immune system. |
Orange | A good memory aid, orange oil helps with focus and concentration, especially when absorbing new information or facts. |
Frankincense | Helps with focus and clarity of mind, as well as calming anxiety. |
Don't Clutter Your Space
It's important to keep your student room organized and tidy and have enough decoration and accessories to create a peaceful and stress-free environment without cluttering your space and making it feel smaller. Avoid buying too many unnecessary items - remember you're only living in your student house temporarily - not for a lifetime!
Remember, your university accommodation can be a canvas for self-expression and a place where you create lasting memories. Just follow these guidelines and you'll have a comfortable student home decor that will be the envy of your friends.
Happy decorating!
If you need more help or guidance on how to navigate the transition from high school to university, check out our website. There you will find useful blogs, resources, and tips on how to help your children survive and thrive on campus.
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