Purchase a desk that allows work space and has space for bookshelves and file boxes. Choose a desk that will take up wall space but not a lot of floor space. Place the desk against a wall opposite your bed but close to the door. Apply shelving on the wall.
Hang a maximum of two to three posters on each wall. Be careful not to crowd the walls as this could make a small studio feel even smaller.
Create a small living room area with a folding coffee table and fashionable folding chairs. Folding furniture give you the option of putting them against a wall or in a closet and pulling them out when you have guests.
Place a folding divider in front of your bed, between the other areas of the room. Fold it up during the day for more space and replace it whenever you need privacy or do not want to be reminded of your school work by looking at your desk.
Buy several inexpensive throw rugs if your dorm has cold floors. Put a small rug next to the bed so you won't have to step onto a cold floor first thing in the morning. Buy a 4 x 6-foot rug as the room's centerpiece. Buy a door rug for store shoes and to help keep the floor clean.
Buy storage boxes for under the bed. This will help to remove much of the clutter and can double as your under-the-bed dresser. Plastic boxes are best because they will last longer and are see-through to help you find clothes and other items quickly.
Rid your room of blinds. Choose cloth curtains instead. Blinds are restricting of window areas, even when they are open. Curtains allow you to have full access to all window space and by choosing warm colors you will add warmth to your room.
Hang up a half-length mirror. This will make the room seem larger. Whenever light reflects in the mirror it will make the overall room feel brighter and lighter. If you decide on a full-length floor mirror, keep in mind that it will take up valuable room space.
Paint the room a light color. Even if you are a moody person, avoid dark colors. They will make the room appear smaller. You can make the room look larger by painting a light and contrasting trim to your wall edges.
Coordinate your room. Any feeling of messiness will make it feel smaller. Try to buy sheets and comforters that are a similar theme. Buy throw pillows that have some of the same colors in them. Place them around your room. Don't pile them in one spot. Bring color to all areas of your living space.