Light touch … fairy lights are a simple way to create a more pleasant space in which to study and relax. Photograph: Richard Drury/Getty Images View image in fullscreen Light touch … fairy lights are a simple way to create a more pleasant space in which to study and relax. Photograph: Richard Drury/Getty Images University Guide 2027 Interiors Your dream university bedroom: how to get that Insta glow-up You’re going to spend a lot of time in your uni room – so don’t just dump your boxes and run. Here’s how to make that space work for you
Chloe Mac Donnell Mon 14 Sep 2026 13.00 CEST Share Prefer the Guardian on Google U ni means many hours cramming in the library and equally as many partying, but there is also a surprising amount of downtime – so a bedroom that is enticing to hang out in is key. Whether it’s in halls, a house share or your family home, here’s how to make even the most basic of spaces more special.
Before you start chucking stuff into boxes, take a moment to prepare. Scope out what exactly your accommodation consists of. For example, is there a single or double bed? Does your room have a sink? Most student halls of residence will provide images of the different types of rooms it offers on its website.
Moving into student accommodation is most likely your first opportunity to create a room that really reflects you and your interests. This can be hugely exciting, but it’s also intimidating. While TikTok and Pinterest are full of ideas for creating “your dream uni bedroom” it’s worth bearing in mind that the space is only going to be yours for a year. Don’t get caught up in making it perfect – instead focus on making it comfortable. The aim is a space that feels cosy on days when you might be missing home or have an essay deadline looming over you, but also a fun space you’ll want to hang out with your new friends.
View image in fullscreen Colour can go a long way towards setting a mood. Photograph: Imgorthand/Getty Images “It’s nice to have a space you like but it’s not the be-all and end-all if you don’t love your room,” says Seraphi Bouchier Hayes, a recent graduate who spent her first year sharing with 17 other girls. “It’s quite fun to just lean into how imperfect uni halls are,” she says, reminiscing on her orange-themed single room.
Flossie Hughes , an interior stylist and founder of the preloved homeware brand Finders Finders Finders, says a mood board can be helpful. “It doesn’t have to exclusively contain interior references,” she says. “Fashion, nature and other archive images will help you create an extra special space. A colour combination or texture in an outfit you love can also be translated to a room.”
Make a list of things you already have and things you need to get. It can be helpful to divide it into categories such as bedding and storage. Once you’ve worked this out, it’s time to source. Some sites such as UniKitOut offer student starter packs (from £199) featuring everything from bedding to kitchen gadgets, but you probably don’t need everything in such kits and it might work out a bit cheaper to buy what you do need separately.
If you or your family are part of your street WhatsApp group, it’s worth messaging to flag what you need in case someone is planning a clearout. Car boot sales, charity shops and secondhand platforms such as Vinted can also be fruitful. Hughes, whose younger sister is starting uni in September, says she is helping her create “a Y2K vibe” on a budget. On her list are a shag…