I am a simple, spontaneous, and easygoing person who loves minimalistic and empty aesthetics, especially in my room, workspace, and car. However, when I moved away from my family in September 2023, I quickly realised how homesick I could get. It took about two weeks for me to settle in and make my dorm feel like home. Today, I want to share some tips on making your student accommodation cosy and homey.

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Sprinkle your magic

Decorate your room with sentimental items like photographs, souvenirs, and small trinkets. I brought a few framed pictures of my family and friends, instantly making my studio feel more familiar and comforting. Adding personal touches to your space is essential for creating a cosy atmosphere.

Bring your favourite sweater, throw, hoodie, pillow cover, or home decoration that keeps you sane and cosy. It gets pretty cold in the winter, so anything you bring will be used. Before moving to Northern Ireland, I took a memorable hike and kept a pine cone from that trip on my desk to remind me of my serenity.

Add a personal touch with souvenirs and framed photographs

Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating a cosy ambience. Instead of relying solely on harsh overhead lights, incorporate softer lighting options such as desk, floor, and fairy lights. Warm-toned bulbs can create a soothing atmosphere. I bought a cheap desk lamp with a yellow shade, which gave my room a warm glow.

Thanks to a friend's suggestion, I also invested in a sunset lamp and an astronaut light projector that adds a galaxy-like light pattern to my ceiling, making the room feel more magical and relaxing.

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Taste of home

One of the most significant ways I made my studio feel like home was by cooking. I felt truly at home the first day I cooked in my studio. The aroma of familiar dishes filled the air, reactivating all my senses and transporting me back to family dinners.

Cooking your favourite meals can fill the void of being away from home and create a comforting environment. Invest in the spices you are used to and look for substitutes close to what you use back home.

Check out where you can shop for international and local produce in Belfast

Make your pin board your memory board.

Fill your pin board with cherished memories from home. Hang personalised notes, pictures, certificates and anything else that makes you proud and happy with who you've become. The more you see these items, the more you'll remember and embody those positive memories and achievements.

Green love

Invest in plants to bring a touch of nature indoors. They don't have to be large or high-maintenance, but they can bring positive energy to your space and give you something to care for, adding a sense of purpose and routine to your new life. Flowers are also a great option, though they last less than plants. Choose whatever suits you best!

Make your space green and vibrant

Disconnect to connect

Establishing a routine can help you feel more settled. Create a daily or weekly schedule that includes time for self-care, relaxation, and activities you enjoy. Having a routine can provide a sense of stability and normalcy, even in a new environment.

Also, make sure you only isolate yourself for a short time. Social connections are vital for emotional well-being, so try to engage with your peers or join clubs and activities that interest you.

Find out more about Clubs and Societies at Queen's

Engage your sense of smell

Scents can evoke strong memories and emotions. Essential oils, sprays, or diffusers can make your space smell delightful and remind you of home. I crafted a linen-scented spray that I use in the mornings. It smells fantastic and helps me relax and be productive while studying.

Sounds like a melody

Adding a personal soundtrack to your space can make it feel like home. Create playlists that remind you of happy times or play ambient sounds that help you relax. Sometimes, I play my favourite tracks while cooking or cleaning, which brings back fond memories and makes my space feel more like home. Be mindful of your neighbours, so keep it quiet between 11pm and 8am.

Making your student accommodation cosy and homey is all about adding personal touches and creating a space that reflects your personality and brings you comfort. By incorporating these tips, you can transform your student accommodation into a warm and inviting haven. Remember, home is where your heart belongs, and as long as you find internal peace, home will be with you wherever you are. Happy decorating!

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Queen's Accommodation

Lebanon Admissions Guide

Ghada Al Fakih Clinical Health Psychology | Postgraduate Student | Beirut, Lebanon Ghada Al Fakih is a passionate, hard-working, and selfless individual, devoted to helping others grow, while elevating surrounding vibrations with harmony and positivity. She is a well-rounded and accomplished individual with a strong passion for helping others. She is a valuable asset to any team and is sure to make a positive impact on the world. Ghada is pursuing her Master of Science in Clinical Health Psychology at Queen's University Belfast. She has a strong background in psychology and public health. She is a certified Emotional Liberation Breathing Practitioner and has completed a clinical psychology rotation at the American University of Beirut Medical Center.