As students, we can’t always afford to make our rooms look like the dream bedrooms we see on Pinterest. But it doesn’t mean that we have to settle for a plain and boring student accommodation room either. I’m here to give you ideas on how to make your uni room feel like a home, while still sticking to your budget.

Here are several ways to personalise you student room:

1. Fairy Lights

These cute little lights instantly make any room feel warm and snug. String them up around your bed, turn off the main lights, and you’re ready for a cosy movie night (or a welcome study break!). They cost around £2.50 for 4 metres at Primark, meaning you could even get a few of them in different colours.

2. Candles

Like fairy lights, candles add a warm and cosy ambience to the room. Scented candles are especially great for making you feel 'homely', plus they help mask the smell of the burning toast your flatmate has just created in the kitchen! They can cost as little as £1 each if you buy them at Poundland or Wilko. As candles are a fire hazard, check with your accommodation provider if they are permitted in the building. If they are not, you can get battery powered flickering candles which look just as cosy. You can get these on Amazon.

3. Plants

Plants are one of the best ways to make a room feel more homely. Even if you don’t think you can look after one, go for a low-maintenance choice like a succulent or cacti. Check your local market rather than supermarkets, as prices tend to be much lower. There are a few stalls in Leeds Kirkgate Market that sell a huge variety of houseplants and often have great deals on. You can get something lovely for as little as £1.50.

4. Books

There’s nothing quite like books that makes a house feel like a home. Your room might not have a proper bookshelf, but even arranging books (yes, even those text books) in an arty row on your desk can massively improve the feel of the room. Plus, it won’t cost anything if you use your own novels or library books. Take a look at 'coffee table books' on Pinterest and you'll get the idea.

5. Rugs and cushions

A rug is something that can add a splash of colour and personality to your room. They can be expensive if bought new, so it’s worth checking in charity shops or at car boot sales. Cushions are also really cosy - Primark sell small cushions from £3. You don’t have to totally cover your room with cushions and rugs, but even one statement piece can make your surroundings feel more snug and comfortable.

6. Put up photos

Having things around that remind you of the people you love is one of the most effective ways to make a room feel like home. There are many online companies specialising in printing photos, from 7p per photo. At such a low cost, there’s no excuse not to hang up your favourite photo of your pet and cheer up your room! You could experiment with ways of displaying them, like different frames, clipping them onto your fairy lights with tiny pegs, or arranging them in interesting shapes on the wall.

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