Freshman Forum 2: Lighting

In the last article, we skimmed over some important sources that help you pick out lists for getting ready for college. Packing lists, decoration tips, etc. Now, let’s get a little more specific: down to the nitty-gritty, as I like to say!

Dorm decoration is a fine art, I swear. Making those tiny, concrete-block rooms look appealing can be a tough job. So here are a few ideas (most from my brain) to help get you started.

Lighting

Lighting is key to making your dorm look good. Most rooms have a main switch that leave you in the dark or with bright, fluorescent light. That means that if your roommate wants to read, but you want to go to sleep, one of you have isn’t getting what you want. So the easiest compromise is to purchase your own lighting.

For me, mimicking natural light is important because the windows in our room are so tiny. I hate that! As a nature lover, I’ve got to have some soft, ambient light.

This cute globe lighting is a great alternative to a lamp or Chinese lanterns. The simplicity suits me, and is much better than the Christmas lights many college kids put up. This choice costs about $25.

Another option is a classic lamp. Sit this cute double-shade lamp on a desk or bedside table to create perfect reading light without disturbing your roommate. At just thirty-five dollars, it’s affordable, too!

If you have room for a beautiful floor lamp, this coffee-colored selection may be for you! Floor lamps can light your bed, floor, and desk, all at the same time. That’s more area than a simple table lamp offers! This tall floor lamp is just $40 and very pretty.

The Earthbound Trading  Company keeps these awesome glass lanterns in stock. They come in all colors and sizes, so prices vary, but usually don’t exceed thirty dollars. The store also keeps a good supply of Chinese lanterns and star lanterns in stock, so these are definitely an option as well.

One thing you need to consider is fire codes. Some universities have rules about what kind of lighting you can use. For example, I can’t have any candles in my dorm room! Rules like these often apply to lanterns and lamps, so check out your school’s rules to be sure.

I hope you all have a wonderful week!