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This String Light Gallery Wall Is a Romantic Dorm Room Vibe (No Tools Required!)

Courtney BalestierCreative Studio Senior Writer
Courtney BalestierCreative Studio Senior Writer
Courtney Balestier is the Apartment Therapy Creative Studio Senior Writer. She holds a master's degree in magazine journalism from NYU and lives in Pittsburgh, where you'll find her doing DIY projects in her new house with her dog and cat (who are not being very helpful).
published Jul 2, 2025
Wall decorated with framed art, a mirror, fairy lights, and a dresser with flowers and decor items.
Credit: Nyjah Harris

Whether you live in the dorms or off campus, your college space should feel like the home it is: a place that you want to hang out in after a long day of classes or a marathon study sesh. Your room should reflect your style and personality, without breaking any pesky rules about how you can and can’t alter your space.

Credit: Nyjah Harris

Nyjah Harris, a student at Old Dominion University, wanted to add a few personal touches to her off-campus bedroom to make it feel more like her own. “I am in my room a lot doing homework, studying, and working remotely, and I want it to be comfortable and versatile for every part of my life,” she says. “I was looking for a refreshing, unique design that can last for years to come, so my space feels homey.”

Credit: Nyjah Harris

She decided to create a gallery wall inside her picture molding with warm, twinkling string lights to add an extra cozy feel. And with Command™ Brand Products, Nyjah was able to do it all without damaging her walls or needing any tools.

Credit: Nyjah Harris

First, Nyjah put a gorgeous vintage-inspired mirror front and center using Command™ 20 lb X-Large Picture Hanging Strips. Like the name says, they support items weighing up to 20 pounds, such as heavy-duty picture frames, large wall art, big mirrors, wall clocks, signs, dry erase boards, and holiday decorations — without using nails or a hammer. (Make sure to follow all package instructions when hanging!)

Credit: Nyjah Harris

For the gallery wall, Nyjah switched to a size perfect for smaller artworks, Command™ 15 lb Large Picture Hanging Strips. Both the 20 lb and 15 lb strips adhere to a variety of smooth surfaces and remove cleanly without damaging walls so that you can get creative, even in a temporary space like a dorm room.

Credit: Nyjah Harris

Once the gallery wall was complete, it was time to add a little glow. Command™ Clear Mini Hooks let Nyjah’s twinkling string lights shine: The small translucent clips hold everything in place without detracting from the look, for a sophisticated finish.

Credit: Nyjah Harris

“Personalizing my room is a reflection of my authenticity. It is a part of me and I hope it inspires people to be creative and let their room reflect a part of themselves!”

Nyjah Harris

Now, Nyjah’s once-blank wall is a romantic reflection of her personal style. “I’ve never had a room design like this before! I love how it’s polished and I don’t have to worry about the design being outdated, due to its originality and timeless feel,” she says. “And my friends love the aesthetic too — they never want to leave!”

Credit: Nyjah Harris

Courtney Balestier

Creative Studio Senior Writer

Courtney Balestier is the Apartment Therapy Creative Studio Senior Writer. She holds a master's degree in magazine journalism from NYU and lives in Pittsburgh, where you'll find her doing DIY projects in her new house with her dog and cat (who are not being very helpful).

Get to know Courtney Balestier
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