My love of interior design and decorating has only grown since the first time I rearranged my room as a middle schooler. I’m constantly looking for new inspiration that I can use to add more meaning to my spaces as I grow and mature.
Naturally, I was so excited to decorate my first college dorm. I filled my phone with pictures from Pinterest hoping to create a beautiful space for myself where I could feel relaxed and at home. Though I’m only a few weeks into my time at Holy Cross, I have found that my room has become a safe space which I attribute to the setup I’ve created for myself. Here are some of the ways I’ve made my room a calming and relaxing space.
- Pictures – My wall is absolutely filled with pictures. The wall next to my bed is covered in 4×6’s of my friends, family, pets, quotes, scenes, and many, many other images that bring me comfort. It’s become very calming to see the things I love so much displayed in a central part of my space.
- Books – In all honesty, I’m not reading many of the books I brought to college with me. Given all the reading assignments we get here at Holy Cross, I don’t have much time for leisure reading. However, I’ve found it very comforting to display books that hold a particular meaning to me and my family. I chose to bring books that I’ve read many times, giving me a sense of familiarity during a time when so many things in my life have changed.
- Art – I love art and have found that displaying pieces around my space has become a form of self expression. Whether it be a Monet print I bought in Paris or a picture my sister painted, I find a sense of comfort in art. Looking at art also reminds me of my love for creating, which gives me motivation daily.
- Bedding – Coming to college, I was so worried my sleep schedule would change because I love my bed from home so much. However, the bed setup in my dorm room has made my sleeping habits very successful. Over the summer, I made sure to choose a comforter with neutral colors that I felt I would use throughout college and added a toile throw for fun. I packed a bunch of pillows onto my bed and made sure they matched or accented the color of the comforter.
- Familiar Items – During the week before leaving for school, I collected various items from my childhood that I felt would create a more homey environment within my dorm. For example, I love perfume, and I made sure to take my favorites so I can see them as I get ready each day. Similarly, I brought jewelry and other accessories that I love, so I could feel more at home. Finally, my plant from home is displayed on my windowsill, something I especially wanted in my dorm room.
I still have a lot to learn when it comes to finding the best ways to keep myself comfortable in this new environment, but each time I bring friends to my room, I am filled with a sense of pride in what I have created for myself.