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College dorm rooms can look fabulous without costing a fortune. No matter which style fits your personality, you can find the items you need at reasonable prices. Two key elements in dorm room design are theme and space management, but getting creative is even more important. One of these tiny spaces will be your home soon enough, so really work on making it your own.

Design Themes

The dorm room of your dreams might look like a tropical island, or it could be neon bright. The decision is yours to make. Begin by thinking of designs that really match your personality. For example, girls who really like sugary treats could decorate with candy-themed colors. This would be pretty easy since Reese's and M&Ms pillows are popular right now. Whatever you do, make sure to stick to the theme, and collaborate with your roommate for the best results. You don't have to agree on one design; just keep colors consistent on both sides of the room.

Color and Lighting

Most dorm rooms have low-quality lighting, which strains the eyes when they're hard at work. You'll most likely need a desk lamp for typing and studying. You can use green-friendly compact fluorescent bulbs to save energy, or simply open your blinds and let the sun shine in. The right lighting can make your colors look brighter and your theme stand out. Most colleges will not allow painting or wallpaper, so you'll have to use posters and artwork to complement your furniture. Stick with your theme and colors, even when it comes to wall decorations.

Where to Shop

Many retailers offer great deals on dorm room furniture, from Ikea to Target. Shop around at different stores near you to see who has the best prices. Search for going-out-of-business sales in your area. You can also check websites like Amazon and Overstock for deals. Head straight to the clearance sections! Little extras for your dorm room can be found at garage sales and thrift stores; look for artwork especially. Write the prices of different items you might want, and then compare them to find the best deals. There's plenty of dorm room furniture out there for girls on a budget!

Working Together

Roommates will want their own private space sometimes - even those who were long-time friends before college. Unfortunately, dorm rooms don't have much space to begin with. You and your roommate can work together to create more space. This might mean rearranging the room a few times to see what works. You can also use risers to create extra storage space under your beds. Plastic shoe holders can be hung inside of the closet, and small storage boxes can be piled high in the corners. Start thinking smart about dorm room decor, and you'll enjoy your new space that much more.

Learn more about this author, Shannon Beineke.
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