How to make university accommodation more homely

Whether you’re starting your first year living in halls or you’ve moved into your very own student house, settling into your new humble abode is always an exciting prospect. University accommodation is notoriously bland and basic and even the brand-new properties are empty and void of any personality. If the prospect of spending upwards of a year studying and sleeping in a boring and uninspiring space is enough to make you shudder, then these tips are here to show you how you can easily make student accommodation both more homely and full of personal touches.

 

Upgrade the lighting

Lighting can make or break the ambience of a room and as the space is going to be used for both study and sleep its important to have several lighting options within the room. A study lamp is a smart investment, but for the ultimate cosy atmosphere, invest in some fairy lights. These twinkly numbers from Lights 4 Fun are perfect for brightening up any space.

 

 

 

Rugs are your friend

Tired and dull looking carpets are all too common in student accommodation and chances are the carpet that does adorn the space won’t be the most vibrant of colours. Consider buying a rug that can cover up the majority of the space, not only will this distract from the dreary carpet or flooring, a rug can be used to add an injection of personality to the space. This unique rug from Urban Outfitters would be a great addition to a basic bedroom.

 

 

 

Add memories to the walls

They say that university is the time when your greatest memories will be created, so why not document them within your interiors? By adding an abundance of photos and memorabilia into the room, the space will automatically feel more much homely. If your university accommodation has rules surrounding pictures on the walls, invest in a noticeboard or grid, such as this one from Matalan, which can be placed on a desk before being filled with your very best personal memories.

 

 

Choose cosy bedding

Everyone knows there’s nothing quite like sleeping in your own bed, so it’s important that you make your new bed as comfy and cosy as possible. Look to bed linen that has a high cotton count, not only is it one of the more comfortable materials to sleep in, it’s also easy to wash! For added style points, choose bedding that has modern or fun patterns and prints, like this fun flamingo set from Terrys Fabrics.

 

Fuzzy furnishings

Throws and cushions are an absolute must for creating a space that feels more like home. By layering a selection of materials, your space will appear both cosier and more inviting. Soft furnishings are a great way to update the style of your room without breaking the budget and can be utilised to add a splash of colour to the space. Go as crazy as you like with clashing shades and patterns, Marks and Spencers have a great selection that won’t break the bank.

 

Potter with Plants

Plants are a great for adding a new dimension to any space. Their vibrant colour and air purifying tendencies make them a particularly good addition to a bedroom, just remember to water them every now and then to avoid wilting! If you’re worried that the upkeep of a real life plant is too time consuming, consider investing in some faux plants such as these dainty ones from IKEA, all of the pretty and none of the fuss.

 

 

 

Useful Links:

www.terrysfabrics.co.uk

www.lights4fun.com

www.ikea.com

www.urbanoutfitters.co.uk

www.matalan.co.uk

www.marksandspencer.com

 

 

Annabel Evans
Author: Annabel Evans