Home Buddies Tip: How to create a functional and stylish dorm room

Maximize storage

Maximizing storage in a dorm room is key to creating a functional and organized space, especially with limited size.

To achieve this, community member Franchezka de Guzman used multifunctional furniture that double as storage units for extra items like blankets and books. According to her, it's a "space saver" as it can fit up to five medium-sized organizers. Aside from the fact that they're not bulky, they can add style to your room as well.

Another trick for maximizing storage is using a trolley, just like what another contributor named Isabel Victoria did to keep her items within her reach while working.

"First tier is for my photocard essentials, second I put my melatonin, trash bin, journal, spare keyboard, etc. Third is where I put my snacks, mail I need to send out, baby wipes and two containers full of school supplies and other photocard essentials like toploaders, extra sleeves, etc," she wrote in the caption.

Want to achieve quality bedding and save space at the same time? Go for a loft bed, which has been a popular choice for those who are living in dorm rooms and small spaces for its practical benefits and versatility.

By raising the bed off the ground, you would get to free up valuable floor space beneath it. This area can be used for various purposes such as a desk, seating, storage, or even a small lounge area.

Doing so also helps create a clear division between your sleeping area and other living spaces. This separation can make the room feel more organized and less cluttered, letting you designate specific areas for sleeping, studying, and socializing, contributing to a more structured and efficient living environment.

Choose a color scheme

Choosing a color pattern for your dorm room is also essential in crafting a functional and stylish dorm room. It helps tie together different elements in the room, such as furniture, bedding, and decorations, creating a cohesive and visually appealing environment. It also ensures that various pieces in the room don't clash and complement each other.

For instance, virtual kapitbahay AJ Pizarro opted for a Boho white minimalist style for his room, particularly his working area, which he shared is his "favorite place."

This also rings true for another community contributor who turned his dream room into reality through a matte black and white bedroom minimalist design of lines and a cozy ambiance of modern style tri-color lights.

Add personal touches

Personalizing your space can make it feel more warm and homey. A room that reflects your personality and interests can serve as your escape from the often hectic college life as it makes you feel "uniquely yours."

Take, for example, a Home Buddies community member and K-pop fan incorporated various wallpapers, photocards, and merch from her favorite K-pop boyband, BTS, into her space. For her, decorating her room like this "sparked joy and helped me stay sane," keeping her "motivated."

"University has been very hard, especially with the online setup, and when I went back home my desk area wasn't the most conducive and lively part of my room so it was a challenge for me to stay motivated," she said.

Comfort and seating

College can be stressful, so it's important to have a cozy spot with a dedicated chair or couch where you can read, watch TV, and simply take a break.

You can draw inspiration from another virtual kapitbahay named Roselle Almuete, who made her dream room budget-friendly as she elevated comfort and style. She achieved this with a do-it-yourself storage bench, dining table, boho mirror, headboard, and frame with clips, among other things.

"Nakakatuwa lang marinig sa kakilala ko mga sinabi nila na 'parang hotel na kwarto mo ah,' 'ang aesthetic,' 'room goals,'" she shared.

Create a study zone

Having a designated study area could also help as it helps you read your readings and complete your assignments without distractions. It can likewise keep your study materials organized and easily accessible, making for a stylish and functional space.

For example, Home Buddies member Glennard Santos recycled an old sewing machine for his study table and topped it with wood.

"May instant laruan pa ang paa kapag naiinip," he joked.

Pink lovers, unite! Community member Alyssa Faye Galicinao Baui recently shared a photo of her workstation, and it's all pink and charming.

Alyssa kept it personalized with her name at the top of her computer monitor. Her white table, pink chair, and wall were accented with pink hues from the lit roses, desk pad, cabinet and abubots on the shelves.

If you want something more minimalistic and clean, try this inspiration from Tene Derla, who upgraded her study area by incorporating some wallpaper, wooded frames, lampshade, and plastic leaves into it.

Need more space in your dorm? Check out our Minimalism—but Make It Chic article to get ideas on creating timeless, minimalist, and space-friendly interiors.