8 Dreamy Dorms That Will Inspire Every Minimalist

July 3rd, 2020 at 5:00am
minimal dorm decor

Transforming a tiny dorm room into a home is not an easy task. You want the space to reflect your personal style without feeling cluttered and cramped. Minimalist decor is the best way to add tiny details to the room while maintaining a livable space. You can adopt the look by combining a few key decorating tips. First, a neutral color palette will open up the room as much as possible and create a cohesive look. You’ll want to add decorative pieces sparingly to avoid a messy room, so try to narrow down your favorite trinkets. Multifunctional storage pieces are a must for any dorm room but are ideal if you want to stay organized and minimal. If you’re already planning ahead for the next school year, keep reading to learn how you can create a clean, yet cozy, minimalist dorm room of your own.

minimalist dorm storage

PHOTO: Andrea Dunn, Fashion Institute of Technology

Use DIY Decor to Create a Personal Touch

Don’t know what to do with all of those Polaroid photos stashed in your drawer? They actually make for adorable dorm decor that is totally unique. Display them using string and clips or on a photo grid to add another design element to the room.

minimalist decor

PHOTO: Avery Rizzotto, University of South Florida

Utilize Symmetry for a Simple Statement Wall

Seeing double? You have to admit: Symmetrical décor is pretty satisfying to the eye. Plus, it’s an easy decorating trick because you just have to add two of everything. Try opting for sets of matching pillows and matching picture frames to achieve the look of this space.

minimalist indoor plants

PHOTO: Emmy Zobitz, New York University

Add Brightness to Neutral Colors with Indoor Plants

When you add plants to a small space it instantly seems to liven up the room. The greenery can make a dorm feel inviting and add a decorative touch as well. There is so much fun to be had with potted plants, so be sure to check out different potting options, like this hanging technique.

minimalist dorm inspiration

PHOTO: Jill Ruder, Fashion Institute of Technology

Decorate White Walls With Colorful Graphics

Not destined to be a plant mom? That’s okay. Instead of raising some succulents, just tape a fun plant print on your wall to achieve a similar effect. Paired with a neutral color scheme, your dorm will feel homey yet fresh.

neutral dorm decor

PHOTO: Itzy Canales, UCSB

Go Totally Monochrome for a Clean Look

You really can’t go wrong with an all-white room. Everything will look put together, and the space will feel open and airy no matter how small it actually is. When using one color, textures become a way of adding depth to the room. So try layering a faux fur throw with a chenille bedspread and smocked pillow shams for a monochrome appearance that’s still visually interesting.

fresh dorm inspiration

PHOTO: Maia Rose, Fashion Institute of Technology

Forgo Traditional Picture Frames For Wall Hangings

Dorms typically have very bland and blank walls, so take advantage of them. A statement wall hanging is a great way to add a simple decoration without overpowering the rest of the space. Wall hooks allow you to display your favorite purses while doubling as storage for them. Finally, stringing lights across the walls will make the room feel cohesive and provide additional lighting (a dorm necessity).

simple dorm decor

PHOTO: Maddy Haller, Florida State University

Stick to a Cohesive Color Scheme

If you have trouble sticking to just one color, create a palette that you can stick to throughout the whole room. Keeping larger items a neutral shade and adding pops of color with accessories is a great way to avoid a cluttered appearance. Pillows and nightstand decor are perfect opportunities to splash some color.

minimal dorm bedding

PHOTO: Reina Sekiguchi, College Fashionista Alum

Make Bedding the Focal Point

Instead of cluttering your dorm with lots of small, colorful trinkets, shift the focus to a patterned duvet and statement throw pillow. By keeping the rest of the room decor simple, the bedding won’t seem like it’s competing for attention with the rest of the room.

How are you decorating your minimalist dorm room? Let us know in the comments and tag @cfashionista in your home decor photos. 

Opening image by Jill Ruder.

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