A Guide to Decorating Your CIA Dorm

Small Space, Big Style

Author Madeleine White ’29 is a Food Business Management major.

In my opinion, one of the most exciting parts of moving to college is being able to decorate your dorm! It is a completely fresh slate ready for creation. So here are my tips, tricks, and words of wisdom for decorating your CIA dorm room.

1. First and foremost, it is important to remember with all your creative planning that you need to follow CIA’s safety rules. No posters or tapestries higher than the second brick to the ceiling, no furniture not provided by CIA, and no fire hazards as listed in CIA’s handbook. Besides that, the sky’s the limit when it comes to adding your own personal touch!

2. Find the earliest move-in date and time possible. Give yourself plenty of time to settle in and arrange things the way you’d like.

3. Make sure you communicate with your roommate before making any big decisions but from my experience everyone has the same goals of having a clean and inviting environment.

4. Make sure your bed has a nice duvet for those colder months, and a throw blanket when it starts to get warmer. A duvet cover is also a great way to add color to your room, and make it look homey. And definitely buy a mattress topper.

5. Personally, I have a desk cover where my computer and mouse live. Then some poster board or craft paper between the shelf and desk to create a fun and colorful backing. Then you can decorate that with Polaroids, a calendar, or whatever else your heart desires.

6. Buy posters that embrace your interests and the color scheme you are going for. Get a nice rug, preferably machine washable; it makes such a difference in creating a homey environment. Beyond posters and rugs, having small plants and standing picture frames can help capture your favorite moments or a bit of color.

7. If you are struggling with inspiration, check out Pinterest for endless ideas. As well as the “Dorm Essentials” section at stores like Target and T.J. Maxx!