Decorating Your First Off-Campus Residence

Photo courtesy Posh Surfside

Whether you’re a recent college graduate or moving into your first off-campus apartment, transitioning from decorating a crammed-for-space dorm room to a sophisticated space for a young professional can be a challenging first-time experience. Here are some must-haves from House Beautiful to make your first space a reflection of you (although you may want to consult your landlord on the first tip…).

1. Paint!

"Most rental properties threaten to keep your security deposit if you leave even a trace that you once lived there, but we say ask for forgiveness, not permission," says Amber Lewis of Amber Interiors. After all, paint can immediately transform a space. Don't be afraid to go bold with a deep, rich hue, which will make the space feel cozy and will immediately elevate the entire room." 

2. Get proper curtains

"Nothing made me feel more grown up than my first curtains and roman shades that weren't made of paper or plastic," says Young Huh of Young Huh Interior Design. "Fabric curtains immediately add luxurious structure and color to a room."

3. Start neutral; mix in splashes of color

"This easy combination is somehow always in fashion," explains Dee Elms of Terrat Elms Interior Design. "It will look collected and high-end, even if you are buying mainly mass-market pieces."

4. Add area rugs

"They're artwork for the floor!" says Lewis. "Rooms that have many layers feel more sophisticated than those that are one-dimensional. Area rugs are a great way to help define different areas within a space as well as add a pop of color, pattern and texture."

5. Try DIY architecture

"If you live in a white box with little architectural merit, try painting some in yourself," says Huh. “We painted in black lines that moved through a room to create interest."

6. Go bold in small spaces

"Putting wallpaper up in the bathroom is a small project with a lot of bang," says Elms. "With so many self-adhesive options available, this shouldn't be a problem for renters."

7. Replace the lighting

"Replacing builder-grade light fixtures is a quick transformation that's super high impact. You can really change the look and feel of a space with a few new pendants, a chandelier, or a sconce."

8. Cover it up

Can't afford new furniture and dealing with pieces that look rather dated? Slipcover chairs in something that's entirely your style to change up the look.

9. Invest in your sleep

"You work hard during the day, and your bedroom should be a retreat suited for total relaxation," advises Lewis. "Investing in good linens and a nice mattress makes all the difference in the world."