This UAB Sophomore’s Boho-Glam Dorm Is So Chic, It Looks Like a Studio Apartment (It Has a Mini Dining Room!)

What do you like about your space? This space was actually an accommodation due to housing issues I had the year prior. At first, I was hesitant because there was no separation between the bedroom and living room, but it worked out perfectly because I rarely have guests over and ended up falling in love with the studio apartment feel and openness.

What is your space best known for? This space is truly dedicated to self-care, relaxation, and personal growth. I don’t have visitors often, but every now and then I invite friends over just to relax and spend time together. As a pre-med student, most of the time I spend in my room is focused on low-energy activities like studying, watching my favorite shows, listening to music, and trying out new recipes.

What was the biggest challenge in decorating your space? My biggest challenge was the layout of the room and trying to arrange the included furniture with the larger pieces I bought. During the summer I had pre-planned a layout, but because I had a headboard which had to go against the wall, it caused the bed to poke out into the living area space more than I expected. Overall, having to be flexible with my already established ideas was the biggest challenge.

How would you define your personal home style? Chic and girly. My style is inspired by my favorite color and current trends.

What is your favorite element of your space? My favorite element of my space is the view, especially when it rains, and being able to lie in my bed and listen to the cars pass by.

How much does your housing cost per semester? $5,025.

Do you have anyone helping to fund your housing? My parents fund my housing entirely, in addition to any scholarships I receive.

How much did it cost to decorate your space? It cost a minimum of $500 to decorate my space. I bought many new pieces, but I also used a lot of the same pieces from my freshman dorm.

Do you have anyone helping to fund your decor? My parents fund my decor entirely.

Do you pay for your living expenses? No.

How do you earn your income? I am a full-time student and do not have a job. I do earn some money through content creation, but not a significant enough amount to fund my living arrangements.

What was your biggest splurge for this space? My biggest splurge for this space was my pink fluffy sofa with the included footrest, which cost $179.99.

What was your best budget find for this space and how much did it cost? My best budget find was my TV stand from Southeastern Salvage Home Emporium for $29.

What small space tips do you have? Buy a jewelry mirror! A full-body mirror is a necessity in your room, and a jewelry mirror is great because it also gives you a place to store your loose jewelry. Also, loft or raise your bed slightly. Even slightly raising creates so much more space for storage.

What is your proudest DIY or product hack? It is very hard to choose my proudest DIY project, but my headboard, my desk hutch, and my DIY name sign are easily my favorite pieces. The time, intention, and people involved in making them give them a lot of meaning, and they make the space feel less like a dorm and more like a room that’s truly mine. When admiring my room I always remember the memories associated with the pieces: the endless Lowe’s trips with my grandpa, the smell of paint, and the sound of the saw.

This submission’s responses were edited for length and clarity.

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