How to Turn Your Dorm Room from 'Livable' to 'Living'

Most of us are very family-orientated and living without them is one of the most difficult things to do, especially during your college years, when you decide to live on campus. It can be lonely, and that homesick feeling just can't be shaken off easily. So, what do you do to ease that struggle?

One of the quickest ways to make your dorm room feel like home is by surrounding yourself with pictures of familiar faces and memories. Print out your favorite photos of family, friends, and memorable moments and hang them up on your walls or display them on a corkboard.

You can also bring in some artwork or posters that resonate with your style. This not only adds a personal touch but also makes your space visually appealing and comforting to you.

Now, many of us love our fluorescent and bright white lights, but studies have shown that these lights can cause, or exacerbate feelings of anxiety, feelings of panic, and other mood disorders. Now when you are already feeling homesick, this is just another kick, when you're already feeling down.

So, do yourself a favor and swap out the overhead fluorescent lights for some warm, ambient lighting. String lights, fairy lights, or a small table lamp with a warm bulb can create a cozy atmosphere. These softer lighting options are perfect for creating a relaxing environment after a long day of classes.

Your bed is the focal point of your room, and having comfortable bedding can make a huge difference. Invest in a good-quality mattress topper, soft sheets, and a cozy comforter or duvet. Don’t forget to add some decorative pillows and a throw blanket to make your bed look and feel inviting.

Your bed should be comfy while also giving you a place to relax and unwind, and after a long day of tough classes, exams or club activities, you just need that good nap to give yourself that much needed boost in mood and energy.

That is when your bed investment comes through for you and makes you realise how worth it that investment was.

Keeping your dorm room organised can help make it feel more spacious and comfortable. Use stylish storage solutions like decorative baskets, storage bins, and shelving units to keep your belongings tidy.

Actually, just use whatever storage style you like in order to get the comfort you need. It's your space, so go crazy with the creativity (ahem...well don't break the rules by going overboard of course)

You can also invest in under-bed storage to maximise the space you have, because you well know how important extra space can be in a dorm room. A neat and organised room not only looks better but also makes it easier to find what you need, reducing stress and creating a more pleasant living environment.

Plants can breathe life into any space, and they’re an easy way to add a touch of nature to your dorm room. The University of Reading even stated that houseplants help reduced stress, lower blood pressure and an improved state of mind.

However, don't go for the overly expensive or difficult-to-maintain plant options for your dorm room. Opt for low-maintenance plants like succulents, snake plants, or pothos, which don’t require a lot of care and can thrive in low-light conditions.

Not only do plants improve air quality, but they also add a vibrant, refreshing element to your room.