As I prepare my son for his freshman year at Virginia Tech (Go Hokies!), I’m feeling both excited and nostalgic. This isn’t my first experience with dorm living—his older brother is already at Virginia Tech—but it feels just as significant. Two years ago, I was completely clueless and ended up spending the first few weeks scrambling to send packages of things we forgot and facing picked-over local stores. This time, I’ve streamlined the process with a comprehensive checklist that you can download below. In this post, you'll also find a shopping list of our favorite items and some design tips and tricks. Thoughtful planning and a few strategic purchases will help transform those bare dorm rooms into cozy, functional spaces and ease the overwhelm for all of us!
Ensure you have everything you need for move-in day with my free College Dorm Room Checklist. It includes all the essentials you might overlook.
My Dorm Room Design Strategy
Creating a stylish and functional dorm room doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following a few key steps, you can turn a plain space into a personalized haven. Start with a cohesive color theme and build your design around it. Utilize space-saving solutions to maximize the limited square footage, and incorporate personal touches to make the room feel like home. Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Find Your Color Theme and Create a Mood Board
Start by choosing a color theme that reflects your personality and sets the tone for your space. You can find inspiration from a rug, Peel & Stick Wallpaper, a piece of artwork, or even an image you find online. Websites like Pinterest and Instagram are great places to start. Once you have your color theme, gather items that complement your palette. Creating a mood board in a program like Canva can help you visualize how everything will come together. Add your favorite pieces and see how they work with your overall theme. Here’s a mood board that I put together for someone who was looking for a Coastal vibe:
Links to Shop this Board:
25% off your Custom Pet Pillow (This makes the BEST surprise gift on move-in day!)
Step 2: Make Your Bed
After deciding on a color scheme and direction, it's time to build your bed. Start with selecting Comforter and Sheet Sets that match your palette, then add Mattress Pads & Toppers for comfort. Layer on pillows and throws for texture and coziness. Consider functionality: if you read or work in bed, add a backrest pillow or cushioned headboard. Choose breathable fabrics for a cooler sleep, and use bed risers for extra storage. Adjust bedding for seasonal changes with lighter quilts for summer and heavier duvets for winter. Opt for hypoallergenic, high-quality fabrics that withstand frequent washing or infrequent to minimal washing for most boys .
Step 3: Essential Furniture and Decor
Choosing the right furniture and decor is key to making your dorm room both functional and stylish. Also, as my son realized quickly his freshman year, it’s nice to have extra seats (folding chairs, stools, floor pillows) for friends that stop by…especially if the beds are lofted or if they’d prefer that guests NOT sit on their bed.
Criss Cross Wide Desk Chair My daughter has this chair and it’s the BEST!
Step 4: Organize Your Space
Keeping your dorm room organized can be challenging, but with the right tools, it’s easier than you think. I find it easier to get organized with some elements, at home so that it makes the unloading and unpacking easier when you arrive at school.
Gold Metal Desk Riser for Laptop or Monitor
Step 5: Add Personal Touches
Personalize your space with items that reflect your style and make you feel at home. Don’t forget pictures of your family, your pets and your friends! Some of my favorite grad gifts have been personalize luggage tags, notepads and tumblers with pictures of my son and his friends.
Shutterfly Photo Tiles (don’t forget to personalize luggage tags and other items here)
Bonus Tips: More Back To School Websites Not To Be Missed!
Amazon Prime Day (Prime Day Deals July 16-17)
Fanatics NCAA College Show off your school spirit!
Ikea Family Offers - Student Discounts!
With these tips and the right products, you’ll be well on your way to creating a dorm room that’s both stylish and functional. Hang in there, moms – it's a bumpy ride, but filled with excitement and growth. Watching your child transition can be emotional, but seeing them thrive will make it all worthwhile. This space will be the backdrop to countless memories and experiences, from late-night study sessions to making new friends.
Take a deep breath, embrace the process, and enjoy the transformation. You’re not just decorating a room; you’re setting the stage for their independence and growth. Celebrate these moments and take pride in the beautiful space you’ve helped create.
Here’s to new beginnings, stylish spaces, and a fantastic college experience!
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links provided are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them, at no extra cost to you.
-Joanna McLean
Hi, I'm Joanna. After a challenging journey with Lyme Disease, I shifted from private banking to pursue my passion in Interior Design. Now, I craft spaces that enhance daily life, believing homes are for living. When not designing, I cherish moments with my family and my furbaby Nala, often with coffee and music.
