Cheap Dorm Room Decorating Ideas - for the Class of 2016

In all the excitement of starting college, freshman often forget they are leaving behind all the comforts of home.  Some are unprepared for sharing things like bathrooms and common room television, no parents to do laundry or bug about homework......no 24/7 kitchen stocked with snacks, no privacy in cramped quarters.  These young people will have to settle down - into a bland dorm room.

The dorm room will be a home away from home for a good two-thirds of the year.  It should be a place where you can study effectively and provide safe sanctuary from outside stress.  Of course, there are a few obstacles to creating the perfect oasis of collegiate bliss.  With imagination, the right accessories, a small spaced dorm room can convert into a comfortable retreat from the craziness of college life.

First, freshman should remember two words:  storage and stacking.  You have to be creative with your space.  Don't let cramped quarters cramp your style.

Find out how much furnishing your assigned dorm room already has, so you will know what to bring with you or purchase.  Some rooms have less shelving and built-in storage space than others.  Upperclassmen recommend for freshmen to bring durable items that will withstand four years of moving.

Since most college students I know are not made of money, finding inexpensive items at stores like Wal-Mart, Target, IKEA, JC Penny, The Container Store or thrift stores are a plus for decorating the dorm room.  Here are a few suggestions for making your dorm room a comfortable and stylish place that won't bust your budget.

I recommend that students get online and follow their housing office's Facebook page and Twitter feed.  They are often putting out ideas, tips, feeds and information.  Students are posting them as well.  On the JMU Pinterest dorm board, there are real life DIY solutions you won't find in a catalogue.

The Basics of Bedding

The bed often doubles as a coffee table, couch or study area.  One of the first things to pick out is a comforter.  Reversible, solid colors are a good choice.  Glam it up with fluffy throw pillows, add patterns and bold colors.  Continue to accent the bed with quilts, coverlet's, duvet covers and bundles.  Don't forget a foam mattress pad.  Remember, most college beds are extra long, so regular twin sheets are too short.  Check out Bed, Bath and Beyond.

Think Storage

Space is tight.  Raise the bed with cement blocks or RackRisers to make space for extra clothes, luggage or books.  Buy closet organizers, underbed storage bins, ottomans, hat boxes and colorful plastic crates for shoes, accessories, make-up and don't forget a hanging shoe rack.  Purchase cheap plastic hooks to hold a bath robe or jacket or find metal towel holders for the back of doors.

Personal Lighting

Before you fade away under the oppressive glow of fluorescent lights overhead, do yourself a favor and pick up a couple of desk and floor lamps.  String lights also work well.  There are endless options of funky lighting.

Flooring

Bring color, warmth and design to a cold boring floor........buy an area rug.

Themed Rooms

Themed rooms are a popular approach to making tiny rooms lively.  If you're going that route, it's a good idea to get your roomate involved.

Finally, like other homes, the dorm will host visitors.  Room decor will not be topic A around campus, but it is the first thing people will notice when they drop by for a visit.

That's my 2 cents.  Happy decorating!

Styling Your Summer Property...Creating The Ultimate Beach Cottage

Why not transform that dull summer house into a beach inspired haven? It's easy and inexpensive to do. With some clever use of sea shells, beach glass, driftwood, vacation photos and a little paint, you can create an inviting, relaxing cottage haven. First, clear out the clutter. Cottage style is clean, bright and fuss-free because if you think about it, beaches are simple, wide open spaces - that's where cottage design gets it's inspiration. You want to create an atmosphere that's serene and fresh. Paint is one of the easiest, cost effective ways to completely change the look of a living space. Choose paint colors such as pale blues, aquamarines, periwinkles, sea-tinged greens, sandy tans and bright whites reminiscent of ocean foam and fluffy cottony clouds. It's clean, fresh and airy. Window treatments - less is best. Think wooden blinds, plantation shutters or airy sheers. Floor coverings - Natural or painted wood floors with area rugs. Think organic, sisal and textures. Lighting - Think soothing versus overly bright or dimly lit. Recessed lighting works like magic in any room. Artwork - Make use of vacation photos - enlarge some of your favorites. Create a collage. Beach inspired cottage style is casual, comfortable and fun.