5 ways to make your student house feel like home
Whether you're in university halls or shared accommodation off-campus, living away from home for the first time can be daunting. But having a cosy space to call your own can help you to feel a bit more relaxed and a bit less homesick.
Here are 5 simple ways to make your room homely and welcoming – without losing your damage deposit.
Make student halls homely in 5 easy steps
1. A soft touch
Most student rooms are blank boxes, so it's not too hard to add your own stamp to them. We recommend starting with three types of soft furnishings: bedding, cushions, and rugs. Go for a co-ordinating colour or style theme, or just pick whatever you love – either way, your space will quickly start feeling like home.
If you're lucky enough to have a sofa or armchair in your room, adding a throw blanket can make it feel more luxurious (and cover up any signs of wear and tear from the previous occupant).
Check out your local big box store or discount retailer for bargains, or try the charity shops on the high street. Oh, and there's one final soft thing that no student room should be without – a favourite childhood teddy!
2. Light it up
Fairy lights are a student staple for a reason! You'll be amazed at the difference a change in lighting can make to the vibe of your space.
Turning down the brightness instantly makes a room more comforting, so swap harsh overhead bulbs for something softer, and add floor and table lamps at different heights to mix things up.
Fairy lights can be hung over windows, strung along shelves, or even put into bottles and bell jars to light up a table. LED candles are also a great, safe way to add some mood lighting without spending too much money.
3. Go green
Adding some houseplants is a quick and easy way to make your space feel more welcoming. You don't need particularly green fingers to look after a plant or two, as many varieties will survive a surprising amount of neglect!
Our favourites include snake plants, succulents and cactuses – and you can't go wrong with a classic spider plant. These low-maintenance plants will be perfectly happy with a good houseplant compost and a drink of water every week or two.
Plant them in colourful pots in shades that match your bedding or other furnishings to tie your whole scheme together.
4. Curtain call
You might not think of changing the curtains, but believe us, it'll make a huge difference to your room. Replacing those dingy drapes with a pair of cheerful, patterned curtains will lift both your space and your spirits. Just remember to keep the originals so you can hang them back up when you leave.
No curtains in your room? Even if you've only got blinds or shutters, you can still join in by fixing a temporary no-drills pole to the window frame. Not only are these great for curtains but they're also perfect for hanging Christmas decorations during the festive season. No Blu-tack required!
5. Get personal
You might not be allowed to add pictures to the walls (check your university or landlord's rules before hanging anything), but there are plenty of other ways to bring some personality into your space.
Many university rooms come with pin boards, which are ideal for displaying collages of favourite photos, or creating collections of cinema and gig tickets and other fun memorabilia. Just make sure you leave enough space for your timetable!
If you have any spare cupboard-top or shelf space, consider displaying a few photo frames or ornaments. These little unique-to-you touches will help make your room feel much more welcoming.
How can I make my halls feel homely?
It's easy to add personality to your student accommodation – you just need to think creatively and not be afraid to show off your own personal style.
Mix shop-bought items such as rugs, cushions and fairy lights with old favourites such as photos and trinkets from home, and your room will feel like new in no time!
Find design inspiration with Gathered
For more ways to upgrade your space on a budget, check out our 10 eco-friendly recycled craft ideas to try today.
