Decorating a college dorm room can be fun, especially when roommates coordinate with each other. While it’s wise to bring the basics from home, roommates should go shopping together to find the right wall decorations, creature comforts and extra furniture that will make their dorm room something special. An obvious dividing line on the wall decor between the two halves makes it less comfortable and seem smaller. Here are a few decorating tips to make a college dorm room a great place to hang out without spending the entire college savings plan.

Compromise

Everyone has different tastes. That’s why it’s important for roommates to go shopping together. They can begin by looking online for items they both like and want. Finding ecoupons will make it less expensive, and they may be able to purchase furnishings without ever having to leave the room. This is especially helpful for those without cars or a nearby mall.

Loft

One item that makes tiny dorm rooms seem larger is the loft. It can be built from scratch, made from a kit or purchased from a former college student. The sturdy wooden structure resembles a bunk bed without the lower bunk, and plenty of room underneath for a couch and a mini-fridge. It also allows students more privacy when people walk into the room while they are sleeping up on top.

Furniture

Every dorm room needs something soft and comfortable to sit on besides the bed. Choose from bean bags, loveseats, futons or giant pillows. A shaggy area rug always makes a bare floor or thin carpet more cozy. These can be chosen through shopping websites that offer online deals or discounts.

Walls

Decorating the walls is the most fun part. Posters, pictures, wall hangings, sketches, beads and souvenirs are the best choices. The colors should coordinate with the furniture and bedding when possible. A theme is a popular choice among roommates with similar likes. For those who seem to have little in common, a few larger objects spread across the walls’ centerlines make the decor blend better and seem less tutorial.

Plants

Dorm rooms can be sterile and stuffy without a homey touch. Plants will liven up the place. Students should look for plants that require little maintenance. The typical plant in a pot on the windowsill will add a little pizzazz as long as it is watered as needed. If the room doesn’t have a window, a terrarium over plants that like fluorescent light is an option. While students are home on break, an auto-watering pin can be inserted into the soil.