Nawal and Neve’s Dorm Room Essentials

What does a self-defined career Mum do when both of her girls are off to university abroad? She decorates their dorms, of course!

With Nawal and Neve both studying abroad, Adam and I recently took a trip over to the US to get both girls set up in their new dorm rooms, and in typical Nicole style, that involved a lot of shopping and decorating.

I wanted to help the girls create a space that felt like a home away from home, full of their favourite things and extra details to make what started as a sterile run of the mill college dorm feel more like a place of their own.

But where do you start? I thought I’d help fellow parents and students out by sharing some of Nawal and Neve’s dorm room essentials – as well as some things to take into consideration that you may not have thought of!

I'll take any excuse for a Target trip while in the US! 

1.      Start with the Basics

Before you get into the room, start gathering the basics. It can be easy to get ahead of yourself and start planning everything – but until you receive your designated room, there are lots of details you’ll have to wait for.

We started by gathering the basics – bedding, pillows, study essentials, comfort items.

These poster frames are great for your favourite print.

We added this bedhead for Neve's dorm to add a bit of colour and personality. 

2.      Personalised Bedding

Your bed is the centre of your dorm room – so why not treat yourself to new bedding that feels like home. Choose sheets, comforters, pillows and blankets in colours or patterns that you love.

 I think you can never have too many throw blankets – and they’re perfect for creating a cosy spot to study or relax. Add in a monogrammed pillow or fun design to give it a personalised touch.

Our must have bedding for a cosy night’s sleep

We loved these Australian Beach Prints to add a touch of home to Neve's dorm.

3.      Decorate with Memories

Personalise your space with photos of loved ones and cherished memories. For Neve we added a touch of home with these bright art prints of some of her favourite places around Australia.

We also added personalised Neon Light Name Signs in their favourite colours – just like their bedrooms at home.

We turned the extra bed in Nawal's dorm into a comfy sofa to relax on.

Adding curtains and a rug to Neve's dorm gave it more of a cosy feel. 

4.      Soften the Space with Soft Furnishings

Dorm rooms can often feel quite clinical, cold and uninviting – almost like a hospital room. Soften the space with lush bedding, pillows, rugs and curtains.

A soft, plush rug not only adds warmth, but makes the space feel more comfortable, whilst curtains can help to create a cosy atmosphere – especially if you choose a fabric that feels like home. Blackout curtains are also great for blocking out light for sleep-ins or late-night study sessions.

Shop our favourite dorm soft furnishings

Orchids are a great easy to maintain plant - or add colour with faux flowers

These Lego sunflowers are perfect if you struggle to keep plants alive 😜

5.      Add a touch of nature

Plants can really make a space feel lively and welcoming – but not all university students have a green thumb 😉 Add some colour with low-maintenance options like orchids, succulents or air plants that require minimal care… or if you’re like Neve, opt for some Lego flowers you can’t kill 🫣

Smart storage is essential for small space living. Look for options to increase vertical storage to optimise spac.e

For Nawal's room we added a coffee maker, kettle and snack essentials above her mini fridge.

6.      Add in clever storage solutions

Dorm rooms are notoriously small, so clever storage solutions are key to keeping the space organised and clutter free.

We used under-bed storage bins, hooks for hanging towels and a wire storage rack to add some storage for snacks, food and a coffee/tea station with a kettle and coffee maker.

Shop some of our favourite dorm storage solutions below

7.      The power of smell

Scent is a powerful trigger of memory and emotion, so why not add the scent of home to your space? Bringing a familiar scent to your dorm room can make you feel more at home – or you can create your own signature scent using a favourite candle, diffuser with essential oils or even a room spray that you love.

Be sure to check your dorm’s policy on candles and open flames first before lighting a candle though – and if candles aren’t allowed, try opting for a candle warmer lamp.

Shop our favourite flame free scent options

8.      Personalise Your Space

Choose wall art and accessories that reflects your personality. This could be anything from inspirational quotes, posters from your favourite bands or movies or artwork that you love.

For Nawal’s room we added some art prints and framed magazine cut outs that she loved, whilst Neve added a touch of home with these Australian Beach Themed Art Prints and a fun throw pillow.

Shop some of our favourite wall art picks

Shop more of our dorm essentials