student life

Design and DIY hacks for your student accommodation

Student room
Written by Nigel Simpkins

There are plenty of good reasons to not live in halls while you’re off at university. Some of the worst things about living in halls include a lack of privacy and space. Private accommodation isn’t necessarily more expensive and can be a considerably better choice for some. When you’re sharing a house or a flat with friends or a small group of students, the benefits are obvious: bigger rooms, better kitchen facilities, a private bathroom, and more control over adding a personal touch to the rooms (as long as the landlord permits it). To get you inspired, here are some easy and low-cost design tips and DIY hacks for your new home. 

Decorative lighting 

Nothing says home like table and floor lamps. Mood lighting is a big part of feeling cosy, whether you’re snug in bed or tucking into dinner with your friends. For a more personal touch, you can add cinema-style light boxes decorated with your own messages or decorate your space with neon lighting. 

Fragrances 

Vanilla or lavender? Soothing and calming aromas add a great touch to a shared space, mask those nesting cooking smells, and can even help you focus on studying. You can grab home fragrances in the shape of candles, diffusers, sprays, or incense sticks. However, make sure you check with your landlord if candles are considered a fire hazard first. 

Turn the shower into a spa 

A nice long shower after a long day at the library or in lectures can work wonders to revive and refresh a tired mind. If you want to elevate the experience, invest in some essential shower oils and decorative plants. Perhaps your flatmate(s) feel similar, in which case it may be a good time to invest in a spa shower head for that extra bit of luxury. Replacing a showerhead is really easy with this step-by-step guide

Purchase good quality bedding 

Studying is stressful. Between the long hours sitting and reading or writing essays (and the occasional party), you want to ensure you get plenty of rest to recover and give your busy mind a well-deserved break. Invest in good bed linen made from natural materials like cotton or linen to give your body the relaxation it deserves! 

Wall decorations 

Whether it’s photos of family or friends back home or perhaps prints of your favourite artworks, wall decor can instantly transform a bedroom or living room into a homey, creative space, and it doesn’t have to be expensive! Here are some ideas for inexpensive wall decor