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5 Common Dorm Decor Mistakes to Avoid

Don't let your teen run wild - at least until they have understood these common dorm decor mistakes. Here's some practical advice for a more livable and attractive dorm.

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Moving to a dorm is an exciting experience for your young teenager. The idea of independence, which was just in theory so far, is now becoming a reality.

The internet feeds on this excitement by offering a visual feast of amazing dorms and possibilities. Every  store, online or not, offer deals and options and ideas. It is enough to make us parents want to re-do our own bedrooms! So you can just imagine what is going through your teenager's mind.

5 Common Dorm Decor Mistakes to Avoid

Let's dive right in with two of the most important ones neither of you can afford to ignore.

1. DON'T overlook dorm regulations

Many dormitories have specific rules and guidelines regarding room decorations.

Most dorms do not allow students to make holes in the walls, so remembering to add Command tapes to your list of items is important if your teen wants to be able to hang posters, bulletin boards or other decorations.

Some college dorms may allow you to replace dorm furniture, such as  a desk chair - although you might be responsible for storing the one provided by the college and return it at the end of the year. Don't splurge on items until you are sure that they can be used.

Avoid violating these rules to prevent any consequences. But don't worry, I have you covered - you can still decorate your dorm within the rules.

Read More: 5 Inspiring Dorm Room Ideas that add Personality and Style.

2. DON'T ignore your roommates preferences 

Creating a cohesive dorm room design with your roommateCreating a cohesive dorm room design with your roommate

Sharing your space with another - and a random stranger, at that - could be a stressful thought at the beginning. Colleges try to help by asking the teens about their lifestyle and their preferences when finding them a roommate. However, one of the most common dorm decor mistakes many teens make, is to go ahead and buy items for the dorm that perhaps the roommate might have an objection to.

This can lead to a lot of discomfort and tension. Deciding ahead of time who will pay for the mini-fridge or whether they would like to share storage space; will also help you cut down on unnecessary expenses. 

If your teen is particular about decorating their dorm in a particular color or style, reach out to the other family and see if you can create a cohesive design. 

On the flip side, if your teen's roommate is particular about something, remind your teen to be more flexible, open and respectful of the other.

3. DON'T overcrowd the space

Your teen is moving from a house, where their bedroom was their private sanctuary, to a compact dorm room - one room that serves all the purposes of dining, living and bedroom rolled in one.

This is where they will study, socialize, enjoy late night snacks and sleep. It is only natural that, as parents, we want them to have as many luxuries as possible, so they can be happy in this 'home away from home'.

Overcrowding the room with too much furniture or excessive decorations will actually make the dorm room seem even smaller and more chaotic.

Go minimalistic and consider multi-functional furniture such as storage ottomans. Lofting the bed also helps add underbed storage while a long bed-skirt can keep the clutter out of sight.

Even if your teen and their roommate want to go all out with decorating their dorm, ensuring lots of storage will help keep the dorm looking tidy and beautiful.

4. DON'T neglect practicality for style

Rolling kitchen cart for college dormRolling kitchen cart for college dorm

Practical but stylish is the name of the game. And with all the options available today, decorating your dorm room with function and aesthetics can be a breeze.

Since floor space is limited, you want to amplify the vertical space.

Lofting the bed definitely helps, as we spoke of before. A bulletin board allows your teen to have a quick check on important dates and events. Stick a full length mirror on the wardrobe (remember the Commando strips); wall shelves help keep the room organized and clutter-free.

5. DON'T forget lighting - the single most important common dorm decor mistakes I have seen

Fairy string lights with photos for a warm welcome to the dorm roomFairy string lights with photos give a warm welcome to the dorm room

Proper lighting is crucial for creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

Most dorms only provide harsh overhead lighting or insufficient lighting. It is important to Incorporate a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to achieve a well-balanced living space. Remember there will be nights when the roommate needs to sleep early while your child might need to study for an upcoming test.

String lights are a popular college dorm decor feature to create a fun atmosphere - add photos to the mix and it can be a warm welcome after a long day at school.

So consider adding string lights, desk lamps, or floor lamps to add warmth and create different lighting zones within the room

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Hi, I am Richa and am super excited to see you here. I enjoy interior designing so much I went back to study it. Now armed with knowledge, passion and a vision to make 'happy homes', I hope this site will give you all the tools you need to make your kid's room happy too.   Read More...