College dorms run the gamut in different styles, from utilitarian boxes to brand-new suites. Depending on where you are in college, you may not be wowed the first time you see your new room in college. However, that should not worry you since most college dorm rooms have the potential to transform into a cozy new home.

For an average college student, money can be a little tight. Therefore, you should be smart and creative if you want to furnish your room using as little money as possible. To do that, below are some tips to help you pick some essential living items like a table and couch: you also need to maximize the available dorm space.

Be creative with the available storage space

Most college dorm rooms are small. It is essential to be creative with your space to save time and energy. Be vertical. Lucky enough, many designer products make the most out of the small, square-footed room with compact pieces and multifunctional pieces like a table and couch for small space.

Using screws and nails on walls is prohibited in most dorm rooms; hence look for adhesives to attach fixtures and large furniture pieces. Search for storage caddies and over-the-door shoe hangers to fit on the free spaces behind the door, bed frame and mini-fridge for cutlery and plate storage.

Shake things up

Before any preparations or skimming through décor ideas, ensure your furniture is exactly where you want it to be. It is better if you are alone in the room; otherwise, coordinate with your roommate and rearrange furniture to a layout that fits both your ideas. Think about the workspace and privacy (you may want to separate the room into two or work side by side).

Online tools can help rearrange and add design touches to the floor based on the current floor plans and dimensions. Remember to allow as much light in the room as possible.

Wall decoration

Wall decoration is another way to show your unique style and personality. Consider a collage or gallery wall (prints, photographs, clippings and/or postcards) to take advantage of the small space. You can hang a beautiful flat weave rug using an adhesive strip to bring out a stylish, luxury look.

There are several ways you can decorate or furnish your college dorm room on a tight budget, like using clipboards to display art, using string lights to hang photos and creating your frames or art out of washi tape. Check your dorm rules and regulation before taking your design effort up a notch.

Do you love plants?

Use your free shelves or adhesive on the wall to support low-maintenance or small succulent plants. You can even look simpler: fake plants will offer that green look and feel without too much responsibility of maintaining and keeping it alive.

Decorating your room with plants and wall art can bring the home feel. It is recommended to leave some white space in your room to avoid feeling crowded. Always check with the housing office before modifying your dorm room.