This UPenn Architecture Student Transformed the “Tiniest” Dorm into a Japandi-Inspired Oasis

Marcus Quinn’s (@marcusquinnh on Instagram, @marcus.png on TikTok) room at The University of Pennsylvania has a reputation as being “the tiny dorm” in his building — so much so, that photos of how compact the room is made the rounds in first-year group chats before he even moved in.

When the university assigned him the single, he quickly realized it was much smaller than other singles on campus. At first, he worried there was no way to decorate it to make it actually reflect his personality. Over time, though, the room’s limitations became its appeal. He says the tight footprint forces him to deliberate every purchase and keeps him committed to a clutter-free space — proof that less square footage can mean more intention.

How did you end up in this space? I was randomly assigned to this single by my university. 

What was your first impression when you saw it in person? When I first saw it, I wasn’t sure how I would make the space work — the slanted walls from being on the top floor made the room feel smaller than it already is. It’s roughly half the size of most singles on campus, and I just remember worrying that the space would feel impossible to make my own. Over time, though, that challenge became what I like most about it. The scale forces me to be extremely intentional with everything I purchase, and constantly encourages me to keep the space clutter-free. 

What is your space best known for? It’s best known for being the tiniest room in my building. Early in the semester, photos of my room pre-decor circulated through first-year group chats because of its size. A TikTok I posted detailing its transformation also made its way around my peers, so sometimes when people come in for the first time they realize they’ve already seen it before. 

What is your personal style? Recently, I’ve been drawn to Japandi designs, such as warm wood tones, bamboo, linen, and many plants. It feels balanced and lived-in without being too busy, which is what I hope to carry into my future apartment or home.

What’s your favorite element of your space? I love how I’ve used the space under my bed. It holds four drawers of my folded clothes, a three-tier unit for essentials, a small fridge, and over 10 pairs of shoes — all of which are tucked under my twin XL. It’s extremely space-efficient and keeps the rest of my room feeling open.

In an effort to remove the stigma associated with talking about money in college, we’re asking students to share how they plan and budget for their space.

How much does your housing cost per semester? $13,000 — the flat rate for freshmen, which includes the dining plan as well.

Do you have anyone helping to fund your housing? Yes.

How much did it cost to decorate your space? It’s hard to put an exact number on it. I’ve added things over time and mixed in items I already owned, so the space came together gradually rather than through one big decorating budget.

Do you have anyone helping to fund your decor? Yes. My parents helped me gather essentials during move-in, mainly with storage once we realized how much thoughtful organization the space would need.

Do you pay for your living expenses? Partially.

How do you earn your income? Part-time job.

What was your biggest splurge for this space? For Christmas last year, I received all the parts to build my own PC to bring to college — one that has good processing power for my design and architecture needs. In total, all the materials added up to around $1,600 but it fits in my carry-on when I go back home for break!

What was your best budget find? The IKEA Gullsudare Pendant Lamp Shade. It’s the centerpiece for my room, and because it’s paper and thin it was only $5. It’s arguably the most iconic thing about my room.

What was your biggest challenge in decorating your space? Lighting was a major challenge. When I moved in, the room had a single dim overhead light by the door that barely lit the space. I’ve since added several lamps to layer the lighting and make the atmosphere feel much warmer and more livable. 

What are your best storage tips? Vertical space is everything! I use a lot of tiered storage, wall shelving, and pegboards to keep things organized without cluttering the floor. Swapping a standing lamp for a hanging one was a small change, but it freed up more space.

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

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