The Prettiest DIY Lamps Light Up This Cozy CSU Dorm
Dorm (suite)
Colorado State University
Colorful
Contemporary
Eclectic
124
Fort Collins, Colorado
It’s easy to forget just how important natural lighting is when choosing a dorm compared to other factors like location, size, or layout. However, considering much of a college student’s waking hours are spent in classrooms or libraries with harsh artificial lighting, it’s important to have a steady source of vitamin D throughout the year.
During her sophomore at Colorado State University, Olivia says her favorite part of her room was its “unmatched” natural light. And when the sun set, it was an excuse to turn on her gorgeous DIY lamps (so varsity whimsy!).
Olivia’s Space
What drew you to this space? My room backs up to the arboretum we have on campus so I’ve been able to see the trees change throughout all of the seasons in Colorado. The natural light in my room is unmatched, especially towards the end of the semester when the sun sets a little later. I love getting to see the rays of sunshine fill my room.
What is your space best known for? All of my friends say my room is the perfect representation of who I am. I am a collection of memories and a reflection of who and what I love, therefore my room depicts that.
What was the biggest challenge in decorating your space? SPACE! There is very little room in dorms!! I knew I needed more desk space to hold memories and trinkets, which is why I opted to put a desk hutch on top of my desk. The lack of closet space was also a challenge (or maybe I just own too many clothes). Luckily my roommate and I had similar ideas for the space. We both wanted the dorm to be functional while also displaying our own personal styles.
Olivia’s Style
How would you define your personal home style? I like to surround myself with things I love: my favorite colors (pink and green) and various trinkets that remind me of my favorite hobbies, friends, places, and memories.
What is your favorite element of your space? My favorite element of my room would be the lighting. I prefer to have natural light or various little lamps turned on rather than using the big overhead light.
Olivia’s Budget
Do you have anyone helping to fund your housing? Yes, my parents.
How much did it cost to decorate your space? About $250
Do you have anyone helping to fund your decor? No.
Do you pay for your living expenses? No.
How do you earn your income? Part-time job.
What was your biggest splurge for this space and how much did it cost? The desk hutch. It was $50 on Facebook Marketplace.
What was your best budget find for this space and how much did it cost? Thrifting frames and art books to use for wall decor [cost around] $25.
Olivia’s Advice
What small space tips do you have? I recommend getting storage that can fit under your bed. There is so much wasted space underneath the beds.
What is your proudest DIY or product hack? I collaged pictures onto lampshades and made my own lamps! I thrifted the lamp stands, bought small bulbs and lampshades at Home Depot, printed pictures from Pinterest, and used a paint brush and Mod Podge to put all of the pictures on the lampshade.
This submission’s responses were edited for length and clarity.
Share your style: Dorm Tour Submission Form
