How to decorate your uni bedroom

Make your room your own without breaking the rules

Moving into university accommodation is an exciting chance to make your room feel like your own. Whether you prefer a cosy, minimalist space or want to fill your walls with photos, posters, and memories from home, there are plenty of ways to personalise your room. As you think about what to pack, make sure you check what you can and cannot bring with you to university. 

However, it’s important to remember that any damage caused by decorating may result in charges at the end of your contract, so choosing sensible, removable decorations is key.

1.  Make the Most of What You Already Have 

Before buying loads of decorations, look around your room and think creatively about the furniture that's already there. Wardrobes, shelving, bed frames and desks can often provide useful places to display or hang things without damaging walls.

Try hanging LED fairy lights around existing furniture, displaying photos on shelves and pinboards, or using your desk and bookcase to create decorative areas. You can also lean posters, prints and artwork against walls rather than attaching them permanently.

2.  Use Removable Hooks and Strips

Command-style adhesive strips and hooks are a great option for hanging lightweight decorations, photos and prints without causing damage.

Always check the product instructions and weight limits, and make sure you remove them carefully and correctly when you move out. Using unsuitable adhesives or removing them incorrectly can still damage paintwork.

3.  Create a Photo Wall Without the Damage

Photos are one of the easiest ways to make a uni room feel personal. Instead of using drawing pins or nails, consider removable hooks, clips or adhesive strips designed for temporary use.

You could create a simple photo display above your desk, hang photos from string attached to suitable removable hooks, or arrange prints on a shelf.

4.  Be Careful With Lighting

Lighting can completely change the atmosphere of your room, but not every type of lighting is suitable for university accommodation.

LED strip sticker lights are not allowed. Don't stick adhesive LED strips directly to walls, ceilings, furniture or other surfaces, as they can leave residue or cause damage when removed.

Instead, consider using lamps, freestanding LED string fairy lights or other portable lighting that doesn't need to be permanently attached to the room.

5.   Make It Yours, Without Making It Permanent

The best uni-room decorations are things you can take with you when you move out. Use soft furnishings, bedding, cushions, rugs, posters, photos, plants and freestanding decorations to add personality without permanently changing the room.

Remember: decorate your space, not the walls! A little creativity can go a long way, and using removable, sensible décor means you can enjoy a room that feels like home while avoiding unnecessary damage charges.