Interior designer reveals top tips for students designing their rental space
With almost 3 million students in the UK and 316,850 applications from UK 18-year-olds to University this year alone, many will be prepping for student lives away from home in the coming months.
Moving into student accommodation is the perfect place to express individuality, and often provides a blank canvas to create a homely space that reflects this. But, with the restrictions that come with rental accommodations, how can students make the most of their space without spending all their loan?
To help students style their space, Mystudenthalls.com has teamed up with interior design expert and creative director at Stone Superstore, Molly Woodward-Moor, to provide tips on styling, décor, and making the most of small spaces – whether that’s first-year halls or a second-year house.
Maximise small spaces
Whilst most rental agreements restrict the use of paint or nails, there are many ways to inject more personality into your space without making permanent changes that could risk you losing your deposit at the end of tenancy.
Molly outlines ”As an Interior Designer who has rented all of her adult life, I know first-hand how frustrating it can be when faced with renting limitations! It’s all about pulling your personality through small changes that can be reversed when the time comes to you moving out, so you can make your house a home with peace of mind.
“Maximise your small rental space with smart solutions like multi-functional furniture and creative storage options. Fold-out desks and tables are perfect for creating work or dining spaces that can be easily tucked away, ideal for those who will be working and studying from home. Use vertical spaces with tall bookshelves above furniture and modular furniture, such as stackable chairs and nesting tables, that will provide flexible and space-saving options for any room.”
Storage solutions
“Utilise every corner of your rental space with clever storage solutions. In the entryway, you can add a narrow console table to keep keys, mail, and small items organised. Within the bathroom, use a narrow shelving unit to store toiletries and towels efficiently.
“In the kitchen, make use of simple storage solutions like magnetic strips for knives and wall-mounted racks or hooks for pots and pans, and tiered shelves to help maximise cabinet space. These smart storage ideas will help keep your space clutter-free.
Add a personal touch on a budget
Molly suggests that sourcing “Artwork, mirrors or framed photos are one of the simplest ways to make a big impact in a room while adding a personal touch. You can either lean larger pictures against the wall for an informal and bohemian feel or purchase command strips that will allow you to hang a frame on a wall without permanent damage.”
Dan Roberts, director at Mystudenthalls.com adds “Make the most of charity shops, second-hand stores and the likes of Facebook marketplace to keep costs down on new items. Be careful not to bang nails or do anything that will damage the walls as you may lose your deposit if you do!”
Molly continues, “Look for ways to add textural layering to add depth and character into your space without making permanent changes. This could include layering cushions and throws on your furniture, adding large rugs, or even updating your curtain drapes or lamp shades to create focal points. Introduce different textures and materials where possible to offer a more inviting, richer visual impact.”
Adding greenery
Molly highlights that “Houseplants are a great way to brighten up your rental space, adding vibrancy and visual interest to indoor spaces, windowsills or even small balconies.
“Houseplants also offer many wellness benefits such as regulating humidity in the air, lowering toxin levels and even reducing stress. Larger plants such as Monstera’s and Devil’s Ivy often make a big statement wherever they are placed and can create an illusion of the room looking bigger by drawing the eye upwards.”
Lighting
Dan explains, “Having the right lighting can make or break the space. Lighting sets the tone, creates the perfect feel and mood, and having the right lighting for both studying and relaxing is important.
“The best lighting setup for a student room strikes a balance between productivity and relaxation. For studying, go with cool blue light bulbs for your main lights. They mimic natural daylight, helping you stay alert and focused. But when it's time to chill, switch to warm lights with lamps or fairy lights. The softer, warmer glow creates a cosy vibe that's perfect for winding down and relaxing. This way, you get the best of both worlds: a bright, energised space for getting work done and a comfy, relaxing atmosphere for downtime.”
Switch out hardware Swapping out the hardware on your furniture can make a big impact on your student accommodation's decor and help personalise your space. By replacing drawer handles with something more unique, whether it's a novelty design, a stylish option, or simply a different colour, you can showcase your creativity and add a personal touch to your room.
Just remember, keep the original handles in a safe place so you don't lose them!
For more tips and decorating ideas visit: https://www.mystudenthalls.com/news/student-halls-decorating-ideas/
