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How to decorate your room on a student budget

Tuesday 18 June 2024, First year

by UCAS

How to decorate your room on a student budget

UCAS
Summer is well and truly upon us. For some of you, the preparation for moving into your new house for second or third year might be underway. For others, you might be looking at your bedrooms at home, wondering what’s going to make the cut and come with you to your halls of residence in September.

Either way, both privately rented accommodation and university halls are not exactly stylish. Yes, this can mean when you open your bedroom door, you will find a dull, empty room. It also means you have a blank canvas to make your own (well, you know, within the guidelines of the contract).

You might think decorating a bedroom on a student budget is impossible, but it’s not. Here are some tips, advice, and suggestions to help you make the most of your new space while saving as much money as possible.

1. Fairy lights
Fairy lights are your go-to. They’re homely, cosy, and great for evenings when you want to snuggle up and watch a movie. They’re also cheap.

You can pick these up anywhere on the high street, and if you have no luck there, you can easily find some online.

2. Desk
Don’t use your desk as a place for dirty plates, rubbish, and disregarded work. Use it to put things such as picture frames, a small mirror, trinkets, or a jewellery stand on. Not only will this show off some personality and brighten up the empty space, it will also give you a nice, clean environment to work in.

Go to the local charity shops and you can easily find items such as trinket dishes and picture frames, all for super cheap prices. You’ll also feel good knowing you have contributed to a good cause.

3. Plants
You might not be that into horticulture, but you can’t go wrong with bringing a little nature inside. Plants have an uncanny ability to bring the dullest rooms to life. They also clear the air in your room, which is a nice thought after you've spent half a week in bed binge-watching your favourite series.
Some low-maintenance plants include a money tree, cacti and succulents, aloe vera, ferns, and a snake plant. You can get these at local markets, home DIY shops or garden centres, or one of the independent shops in and around town.

4. Soft furnishings
A couple of pillows and a blanket will make a huge difference to the cosiness of your room, and they don’t have to be expensive. You can pick things like this up from the market or in large chain stores for just a few pounds. They will add colour and texture to your new bedroom, while making it feel homely and snug.

You don’t have to spend lots of money to create your home-away-from-home. With a little imagination, you can make your room just how you want it, and still have money left for a takeaway pizza. Good luck!
 
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