Adding Color to Dorm Room Walls

Dorm room walls are notorious for being painted in plain neutral shades, which can be somewhat "blah" and boring. However, many dorms also restrict painting the walls, using nails or tacks, or sometimes even using tape or other kind of unapproved adhesives. If you want to add some pizzazz and color to your boring dorm room walls while still sticking to the rules, here are some easy and inexpensive tips you can use to get the job done right.

Know the Rules

Before you start decorating your dorm room walls, familiarize yourself with the dorm decorating rules and restrictions. After all, you don't want to run into problems at the end of the semester because you've painted the walls if you weren't allowed to do so. Most dorms allow certain kinds of approved adhesives, which can be used for hanging posters, artwork and other decorating items. There are also adhesive-backed hooks and hangers which are designed to be removed cleanly from walls without causing damage. Another option is to use decor that can be propped instead of hung: For example, you can prop framed art against a windowsill or place a door topper above the entry door. Once you understand the dorm's guidelines, you'll be better prepared to decorate.

Photo credit to flutterbright.

Posters and Artwork

Posters and drawings are great for adding color and design to dorm room walls. They are lightweight and easy to hang, even when using adhesives that are designed to be removed cleanly. Posters are also quite inexpensive, which can be a great advantage for your decorating budget. If you or a friend has artistic talent, you can create your own interesting artwork to display on the walls. This can be a great way of adding a personalized and decorative touch to your dorm. You can also use a lot of posters to create a collage on the wall. If you have enough of them, you might even be able to cover an entire wall with a giant poster or artwork collage. Or, try enlarging some of your favorite photographs of the Grand Canyon so that you can use them as southwestern wall art, for example.

Simulated Wallpaper

Although you won't be able to hang real wallpaper in your dorm room, there are decorating options that can simulate the look. Wall decals which are designed to be removed cleanly can be a great way of decorating dorm room walls. You can also use approved adhesives to hang wrapping paper, crafting papers or even Kraft or butcher's paper on the walls to add the look of wallpaper to your dorm room. Fabric can also be draped on the walls, or affixed with removable adhesives to create a designer look.

Photo credit to dborman2.

Combining Style and Functionality

Because dorm rooms are small, it's important to maximize every inch of your space. Choosing wall decorations that are functional as well as attractive are always a good option. For example, a dry erase white board can be used to leave notes for your roommate, or to post important reminders for yourself. However, you can also draw artwork on the board to add color, design and visual interest to your dorm room walls. A cork board can also be a great way of combining style and functionality. If you aren't allowed to hang these boards on the wall, simply sit them on the top of a desk or table and lean them against the wall.