Creating a Home Away from Home: Preparing My Daughter’s Uni Room

A bit of a personal post from me this week, as various emotions flying around about my daughter setting off for university, and thinking about how we can make her new space feel a little more like home. Halls of residence are often plain and functional, but with a few thoughtful touches, hopefully we can make hers a cosy retreat, somewhere she can study, relax, and truly make her own, somewhere to escape the perhaps not so peaceful shared spaces!

Rather than buying lots of things, we focused on simple details that can help to bring comfort, warmth, and reflect her personality.

Soft Layers for Comfort

Textiles make the biggest difference in softening a room. We chose a cosy throw for her bed, focusing on the soft and comforting feel as much as the design. We added some cushions in colours and prints she loves, and a small rug to add warmth underfoot. These little touches will make her space feel inviting from the moment she walks in.

Lighting to Set the Mood

Good lighting changes everything. Alongside her desk lamp, we added some gentle fairy lights to create a softer glow in the evenings. It’s such a simple way to make a room feel peaceful and comforting after a long day.

A Few Personal Touches

Photos, mementos, and a favourite candle are all coming with her. They don’t take up much space, but they can bring so much reassurance and familiarity. Having those homely pieces nearby will, I hope, make her new room feel less daunting.

Keeping Things Tidy

Storage can be a challenge in student halls, so we added a few easy solutions: under-bed boxes, over-door hooks, a moveable trolley for food storage. Nothing bulky just practical pieces to help her feel more in control of her space and hopefully the intention will be set to keep her room tidy...unlike at home!

A Hint of Green

Even the smallest plant can bring life to a room. We chose a couple of faux plants, which means no maintenance but you still have the same look and intention. It’s such a simple way to make the space feel more alive and green.

The Bed as Her Sanctuary

Her bed will be the heart of the room a place to work, rest, and recharge. I’ve chosen good-quality bedding to make it as comfortable as possible, with a few layers so it feels soft, restful, and inviting.

Final Thoughts

As we spent time together choosing pieces, bonding over lunch and having those last moments together before she heads off, I realised it isn’t about decorating in the traditional sense it’s about creating a home away from home. A student room may only be a small, temporary space, but with a little thought it can still feel personal, nurturing, and full of warmth, which is certainly what I hoped to achieve for my daughter.

And more than anything, I hope she feels that wherever she goes, she always has a home within her space.