Tips To Create A Homey Accommodation

I am very much a home bird – I like having my own space where I can just unwind and switch off from the outside world. This became doubly important for me at university, particularly in first year. The uni experience was so new and exciting (and sometimes scary) that I really needed a space to remove myself from the busyness of campus life and just relax. 

My desire for a homey space away from home has meant that I’ve spent the last two years curating all the bits and bobs that make my room feel relaxing. I’m sure I’ll continue to collect items that create a cosy feeling in my space, as you will too! Remember, you don’t need to arrive at university with every single item you will need. You can always buy things here!

Photos, photos, photos!

I am a BIG photos person. I absolutely love having printed photos all around my room of my friends, my family, and great experiences that I’ve had. These don’t necessarily all have to be nice pictures where everyone is smiling – some of my favourite photos that I have printed are ones where people look stupid, as they make me laugh the most! I also find them really grounding – if I’m ever going through a tough time, I like having my photos around me to remind me that there is more to life than what’s happening on campus! I can’t speak for every accommodation, but the pinboard in my room was MUCH larger than I expected it to be – so don’t panic about taking too many! You will be able to find places to put them, I am sure. I’m also someone who likes to hold on to cards, tickets, or scrap pieces of paper that remind me of a good time I’ve had, which often get pinned up right next to other photos.

A soft blanket and an extra pillow

If you can’t be comfortable in your bed, then you won’t be comfortable in your room! Even if you don’t use the blanket for warmth, it’s nice to have something soft to sit or lie on. I used to write essays at my desk with a blanket covering the chair, just for extra comfort! An extra pillow is always useful, too – whether it’s for propping your head up, or for balancing a bowl of cereal in bed, it will always find a way to be handy!

Knick-knacks

When I left for uni in first year, I was so concerned about only packing what I NEEDED to take. This meant that I only brought what I deemed absolutely necessary, and anything else got cut. It was only once I’d arrived at uni that I began to regret that decision. So often I would want or need some little thing that I had left behind at home. Now, I pack everything I think I might want (as long as there is room), including items which don’t really have a use. I love having little knick-knacks on my shelves, like the little goblin statue that I once bought on holiday, or a rock that a friend painted for me. Having sentimental bits and bobs placed around your space can really make it feel like somewhere you are living, rather than just somewhere you are staying.