Get Inspired
Before you try to do anything, take some time to find out what your *aesthetic* is. You know, figure out what you like. Flip through some magazines. Scroll through your Pinterest feed. My personal favorite method for inspiration is binge watching HGTV until I feel like I can flip houses all by myself.
Stick To A Simple Color Scheme
Make sure that your color scheme is simple and brightens up your space. Look back at your inspiration and see if there are any underlying themes. Typically, it’s good to stick with a neutral base color and combine it with a couple bright colors to give the space some character. The best way to start building your color scheme is with your bed spread and throw pillows.
Add Texture and Art
Nothing makes a house feel more cozy than adding some soft blankets, fluffy pillows, and awesome art. However, art tends to be really expensive. One of my favorite little decorating tricks is to look for eclectic cards from places like Paper Source or Urban Outfitters and frame them. They look quirky and cool but will only run you about $5. Score.
Organize
It’s very hard to feel at home in a place when it’s constantly a wreck. I personally hate it when my room is messy and am always trying to declutter (just ask my boyfriend, I’m constantly cleaning his room for him.) If you find yourself surrounded by clutter, try investing in some storage boxes that can slide easily under your bed. A way that I like to organize things in my bathroom and on my desk is by emptying out old candles and using them to hold beauty products and pens.
Aromatherapy Counts
You know those candles from Anthropologie that look precious and smell even better? Well, now you can justify actually buying one. Aromatherapy is very calming and healing, and it’s an easy way to personalize your space. However, if you live in a dorm, odds are that candles are not allowed. If that’s the case for you, or you just don’t like the idea of something burning in your home, check out reed diffusers instead. There’s no fire involved, and they smell just as good as regular candles.
Add Some Life
Call me a hippie, but I think that having plants in your room adds a lot of positive energy to your space. It gives you something to tend to and watch grow. If you have a black thumb, worry not. Plants like succulents and cacti don’t need a lot of water and are still very cute. Release your inner flower child.
Create a Stylish Workspace
Let’s face it: college is hard. Most of the time, sitting down to do school work for hours on end is not the most exciting way to spend an afternoon. That’s probably why, in my opinion, it’s most important to make sure your workspace is a welcoming and relaxing area. Pin up some inspirational quotes. Frame a picture of your pet. Whatever you do, make sure don’t feel anything other than inspired when you’re sitting at your desk.
Make Memories
What good is a house when it’s not filled with people that you love? Have some friends over to eat pizza and watch One Tree Hill. Host a dinner party or a wine night. Whatever you do, make sure you fill your space with amazing people who love and uplift you. After all, the difference between a house and a home is family.