Making Your Student House a Home – Moving into your student accommodation is an exciting milestone but turning a new house into a comfortable and personalised space can sometimes feel like a challenge, especially when you’re limited by tenancy agreements. While major changes like painting walls or drilling holes may not be allowed, there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to make your student home feel like your own.

Here are some simple decorating and organisation tips to help you create a stylish, cosy, and functional space without breaking the rules (or your budget).

1. Use Removable Decorations to Add Personality

Just because you can’t paint the walls doesn’t mean they have to be plain! Removable decorations are the perfect way to inject colour and personality into your room without making permanent changes.

Ideas to Try:

  • Posters & Prints – Use Command Strips or washi tape to hang up posters, artwork, or motivational quotes without damaging the walls.
  • Fairy Lights – A simple set of LED fairy lights or battery-powered lamps can add warmth and a cosy atmosphere to your room.
  • Wall Tapestries & Fabric Panels – Large fabric pieces can cover a blank wall and give your space a unique touch without the need for nails.

Pro Tip: Student Rooms 4 U allows removable decorations like posters and fairy lights, so get creative while keeping things damage-free!

2. Add Soft Furnishings for a Cosy Feel

One of the easiest ways to make a student house feel more like home is to layer textures and fabrics to create a warm and inviting space.

Budget-Friendly Soft Furnishings:

  • Cushions & Throws – Adding colourful cushions and soft blankets to your bed or sofa instantly makes the space feel more comfortable.
  • Rugs – A budget-friendly rug can cover plain flooring and make your room feel warmer (especially in winter).
  • Blackout Curtains – If your room gets too bright in the mornings, consider temporary blackout blinds or thick curtains for better sleep.

Many discount stores like IKEA, Wilko, or Primark offer affordable soft furnishings perfect for students.

3. Smart Storage Solutions to Keep Things Organised

Keeping your student home tidy and clutter-free will make it feel bigger and more relaxing. Here are some simple storage hacks that don’t require any drilling or permanent changes.

Storage Ideas for Small Spaces:

  • Over-the-Door Organisers – Use these for shoes, accessories, or cleaning supplies without taking up floor space.
  • Under-Bed Storage Boxes – Perfect for seasonal clothes, extra bedding, or textbooks.
  • Collapsible Storage Baskets – Ideal for keeping your desk, wardrobe, or bathroom essentials neatly stored.
  • Hanging Hooks & Rails – Command hooks or self-adhesive wall racks can help you hang coats, towels, or kitchen utensils without drilling.

Pro Tip: Many Student Rooms 4 U properties include spacious wardrobes and storage, but if you need extra space, these small additions can help!

4. Make Your Desk a Productive Study Space

Since your room will likely be both your study zone and relaxation space, setting up an organised and motivating workspace is essential.

Ways to Improve Your Study Space:

  • Use a Desk Lamp – A warm LED light can make long study sessions easier on the eyes.
  • Organise Your Stationery – Use desk organisers, mason jars, or drawer dividers to keep everything neat.
  • Incorporate Greenery – A small houseplant or succulent can add a natural touch and improve focus.
  • Whiteboards & Pinboards – Stick up reminders, to-do lists, or exam timetables using removable adhesive strips.

A well-organised desk can make studying more productive while keeping your space clutter-free!

5. Create a Homey Living Area for Socialising

If you’re living in a shared house, turning your communal areas into a welcoming space for movie nights, dinners, and socialising can make a huge difference to your student experience.

Small Touches to Improve Shared Spaces:

  • Add a Comfy Blanket – Keep a throw blanket on the sofa for those lazy Sunday Netflix marathons.
  • Invest in Board Games or a Streaming Subscription – Having game nights or group film sessions can help bring housemates together.
  • Keep the Kitchen Tidy & Functional – Simple additions like a fruit bowl, reusable coffee cups, or a shared spice rack can make the kitchen more inviting.

Student Rooms 4 U properties offer spacious communal areas, so adding a few personal touches can make them even better for socialising.

6. Use Scent to Make It Feel Like Home

Scent can have a huge impact on how a space feels—and since candles are often not allowed in student accommodation, there are plenty of safe alternatives.

Ideas for Adding a Cosy Scent:

  • Reed Diffusers – A great way to add long-lasting fragrance without flames.
  • Electric or Battery-Operated Wax Warmers – A safer alternative to candles.
  • Room Sprays & Linen Mist – Refresh your room instantly.

A home that smells nice instantly feels more welcoming and comfortable!

Turning your student house into a home doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult. By using removable decorations, cosy soft furnishings, smart storage solutions, and small personal touches, you can make your space feel warm, organised, and inviting, without breaking tenancy agreements.

At Student Rooms 4 U, we want every student to feel at home in their accommodation. With all-inclusive rent, fully furnished homes, and fantastic locations close to the University of Plymouth, we provide high-quality, comfortable student housing where you can truly settle in and enjoy your university experience.

Start decorating, get organised, and make your student house a place you love coming home to!