Rather than having a room to themselves, most college students share a dorm room with another resident. Before decorating, consult your peer, and decide on a style and color theme. Even when you have vastly different opinions, it's usually possible to find a common thread you can elaborate on when putting your stamp on your shared quarters. Decide whether to shop together and split the cost of the items, or whether to purchase your own accessories to develop a unified design concept.
Since painting the walls of your dorm is usually a definite no-no, adding color to your quarters requires creative thinking. Throw rugs and curtains in matching or complementary colors are feasible options. Shop at a local discount store that fits your student budget. Large throw pillows and cushions create extra seating options for guests, while adding a touch of cheerful color. Change your plain white lampshades to ones with colors or patterns as well. Add a removable border around the wall just below the ceiling or vertically as an edge along your door frame.
Lack of privacy is a commonly cited complaint by dorm room occupants. To create privacy in your room, add a decorative folding screen that you can easily pop open or closed as needed, to create a blockade when sleeping, changing clothes or studying. Choose a color and pattern that matches your chosen decor. Alternatively, place two sturdy screw-in hooks in opposite walls. Choose a flat queen-size sheet with an attractive pattern, and string it on a length of clothesline. Secure the clothesline to the hooks, and create a privacy curtain that you can draw or push back as desired.
Interior decorators know the importance of lighting when it comes to creating a mood. Choose a funky desk lamp that allows you to express your personal style and shed some light on your studies. Lamps with three-way bulbs allow you to choose varying degrees of light for resting, reading or visiting. String tiny twinkle lights from the ceiling for a cozy look at anytime of the year. Fill nooks, corners and crannies with flame-free candles to create an intimate, yet safe, atmosphere.