Most college dorm rooms are known for being small. If you are living with a roommate, there may be even less space for your belongings. Lofting or placing your bed on risers is an ideal way to maximize space in a dorm room. Many college housing offices will arrange to have your bed lofted if you put in a request, which allows you to place your desk, dresser or other large piece of furniture beneath your bed. If you cannot have your bed lofted, you can use cement blocks or risers to raise the bed so there is storage space beneath for clothing, shoes, books, plastic bins, suitcases and other items.
Although some college students prefer studying at the campus library, coffee shop or other public location, many are more comfortable reading or studying in their room. To make it easier to concentrate on your school work, designate a study area in your room. A desk is an ideal spot to write a paper or complete a written assignment, but consider adding a bean bag chair or other comfortable place to sit so you don't have to read in bed. Make sure your study area also has sufficient lighting. Halogen floor lamps are relatively inexpensive and provide plenty of light. If your dorm room does not provide a bookshelf for organizing your reading materials, use plastic storage bins or milk crates to keep them organized and within easy reach.
Many college students struggle with homesickness from time to time since it is usually their first time living away from family and friends. To combat these feelings, try decorating your dorm room with items that remind you of home. Photos of family, friends and pets are ideal wall decorations and can easily be placed on a French memo board or in inexpensive frames. Pennants or posters of your favorite local sports team can brighten up your dorm room and remind you of home as well. In addition, posters of your home city or town can help remind you of home no matter how far away your school may be.
Dorm rooms often have a sterile feel because they feature plain white or beige walls and neutral carpeting or flooring. Most colleges do not allow students to make any permanent alterations to dorm rooms, such as painting the walls or putting down new flooring. To make your room feel as unique as possible without violating your school's rules, opt for removable items that can add color or pattern to the room. Consider hanging a boldly colored tapestry on a plain wall to brighten the room. A throw rug in a fun pattern can help mask a boring, neutral-colored floor. Even adding a colorful comforter and sheet set to your bed can help liven up a drab dorm room.