Dorm, Elevated: Make 130 sq. ft. feel like home
Move-in season comes fast—and tiny rooms move even faster. Here’s how to create a dorm that’s calm, functional, and unmistakably you (without fighting campus rules).
The three rules I design by
Comfort first. Great sleep + soft lighting = better everything.
Work flows. A clear desk, smart storage, and a cord plan beat clutter every time.
Style that lasts. A tight palette and a few quality pieces carry you through all four years.
Quick layout formulas that work
Twin beds, parallel + shared table (symmetry, easiest to style).
L-shape beds (opens floor for a rug and lounge cube/ottomans).
One lofted, one standard (creates a study nook or mini living area under the loft).
Headboards-on-window wall (when doors/closet eat the other walls; add blackout liner).
High-impact upgrades (RA-approved)
Clip-on or plug-in sconces, warm LED string lights (no candles).
6'×9' rug to anchor the room; layered washable runner by the beds if space is tight.
A pair of ottomans/cubes: seating + hidden storage + step-stool for lofts.
Peel-and-stick art ledges or Command hooks for hats, bags, and robes.
Bed risers + bins or rolling drawers—measure under-bed clearance first.
A cord kit (surge protector with USB, 10' charging cable, cable ties).
Twin XL bedding that actually fits—two pillow looks: sleeping + decorative.
Always check your school’s housing guide for fire-code rules (what’s allowed for lighting, rugs, adhesives, and appliances).
Palette ideas you can borrow
Southern Neutral: stone, oatmeal, eucalyptus, aged brass.
Sun-Washed Desert: sand, clay, denim, patinaed leather.
Cozy Coastal: sea-glass blues, ivory, warm wicker.
Keep the base neutral; let pillows, art and throws carry the color story so you can refresh cheaply next semester.
A realistic timeline
6–8 weeks out: measure, pick a palette, book your design.
4–6 weeks: order long-lead items (rugs, lighting, headboards).
2–3 weeks: bedding, organizers, decor.
Move-in week: tools, hooks, cord kit, snacks, trash bags, patience.
Done-for-you option: Dorm, Elevated
If you’d rather skip the guesswork, my Dorm, Elevated package builds a complete room plan you can install in a single afternoon.
What you get for $555
E-design for one room (twin XLs or single), with selections and vision boards
Up to five revisions per space
Purchasing included — I handle carts and logistics, with trade pricing where possible
A budget-savvy plan that still feels custom and grown-up
Shop the Dorm, Elevated package.
Pack list: designer’s short version
Bedding (Twin XL sheet set + duvet/coverlet), 2 pillows + decorative, mattress topper, 6'×9' rug, 2 cubes/ottomans, clip-on lamp or plug-in sconces, surge protector + 10' cable, under-bed bins, laundry bag/hamper, full-length mirror (over-door), command hooks/strips, small tool kit, microfiber cloths, collapsible totes for move-in day.
Want interiors that feel layered
and lived-in?
Start small with our free bookcase styling guide — the same process we use for clients.
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