Heading off to uni? Personalise your halls of residence with photo decor

Leaving for university is an exciting adventure.t's a time when you progress from the comfort of your family home to the newfound independence of student accommodation. 

Starting uni can be both an exhilarating and daunting experience; settling into your accommodation with your own photo decor can make the transition just a little bit smoother. 

Why is it important to personalise your room?

Whether you're moving into uni halls, a flatshare, or a studio flat, making your new space feel like home is crucial to help you settle into university life. One way to achieve this is by personalising your student accommodation with photo decorations.

From framed photos of you and your friends having a good time together, to family snaps, pet pictures, holidays, or your favourite piece of wall art, there’s so much to choose from when it comes to photo decor for your accommodation. 

And whilst student life is temporary, you’ll likely be spending a good portion of your time in your room studying, or getting ready for nights out and club socials in your room beforehand. That’s why it’s a good idea to make your uni accommodation as comfortable as possible. 

Making your stay at university feel like home will make you feel more relaxed in your room, and not to mention you’ll be motivated to study in it. Change can stir up a lot of emotions for many, and by personalising your room you’ll also help calm those pre-university nerves by keeping consistency throughout your university transition.  

How do I personalise my student accommodation?

Personalising your student accommodation is all about adding a touch of your personality to an otherwise generic space. It not only makes your room feel cosier but also creates a sense of belonging. Photo decorations are a fantastic way to achieve this. 

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to personalise your uni room with photo decor. The most important thing to remember is to have fun!

1. Choose your theme

Before you start decorating, it's essential to decide on a theme or style for your room. Are you into minimalist aesthetics, vibrant colours, or a rustic look? Knowing your preferred theme will help you select the right photo decorations that align with your vision.

2. Select your photos

Now, it's time to curate the photos you want to display. You can choose from a variety of options, including personal photos, travel snapshots, family portraits, or even your own artwork. Each photo should hold special meaning to you and contribute to the overall vibe you want to create in your room.

3. Print your memories

Once you've selected your photos, it's time to decide how you want to display them. There are several options to consider:

Canvas Prints

Canvas prints offer a classic and elegant way to showcase your favourite photos. They add texture to your walls and create a timeless look. Many online services allow you to upload your photos and order custom canvas prints in various sizes.

Framed photos

Framed photos are a versatile choice. You can mix and match different frame styles to create an eclectic gallery wall. Frames come in various materials and colours, so you can find ones that complement your room's theme.

Shacolla

Shacolla is a modern and innovative way to display photos without the need for frames or nails. Shacolla panels have a sticky adhesive surface, making them perfect for dormitory walls where you can't use nails or hooks. Simply peel and stick your photos, and they can be easily repositioned without damaging the walls.

Arrange your decorations

Once you have your photo decorations ready, it's time to arrange them in your room. Consider creating a gallery wall above your desk or bed, or scatter framed photos and canvas prints throughout your space. Experiment with different layouts until you find what works best for your room's size and layout.

Add personal touches

In addition to photo decorations, don't forget to add other personal touches to your room. This could include decorative pillows, bedding, rugs, and small items that reflect your interests and hobbies.

Lighting matters

Proper lighting can enhance the ambiance of your room and highlight your photo decorations. Consider investing in fairy lights, floor lamps, or desk lamps to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Stay organised

University life can get hectic, so it's essential to stay organised. Incorporate storage solutions like shelves, bins, and under-bed storage to keep your room tidy and clutter-free.

Ideas for photo decor themes

If you’re stuck for ideas about how you want to personalise your photo decor, think about how you want your room to look. Is there a certain theme or aesthetic you’d like to convey with your memories? 

Family wall

Dedicate a wall to your loved ones. Arrange a collage of family photos in various shapes and sizes, from childhood snapshots to recent gatherings.

Pet shrine

Create a shrine to your furry friends. Frame candid shots of your pets, add paw prints, or even incorporate a small shelf for their favourite toys or treats.

Holiday escape

Relive your favourite vacations with a travel-themed photo corner. Use a world map as a backdrop and pin your travel photos to the countries you've visited.

Gap year chronicles

Document your gap year adventures. Print out photos of breathtaking landscapes, new friends, and unforgettable experiences. Create a gallery that transports you back to those incredible moments.

Milestone timeline

Arrange a timeline of your life's milestones, from baby pictures to graduation. It's a beautiful way to reflect on your journey and personal growth.

Quotes and art

Pair your photos with inspiring quotes or your own artwork. This combination adds a unique touch to your decor and tells a story of your interests and passions.

Polaroid wall

Opt for a trendy polaroid wall with instant camera pictures. Arrange them haphazardly for a charming, spontaneous vibe.

How can I decorate my uni room without damaging walls?

Now that you know how to personalise your student accommodation let's address the concern of decorating your uni room without damaging the walls. Many halls and student flats have strict rules against putting holes in the walls or using adhesive products that leave residue. 

Fortunately, there are creative ways to decorate your room without causing any harm to the walls.

1. Command strips and hooks

Command strips and hooks are a student's best friend when it comes to wall decor. They come in various sizes and strengths and are designed to stick to walls without leaving any marks when removed. Use them to hang framed photos, canvas prints, or even lightweight shelves.

2. Washi tape and removable wallpaper

Washi tape is a colourful and decorative tape that can be used to create unique wall designs. You can use it to frame your photos, create geometric patterns, or even make a faux headboard. Removable wallpaper is another option that can add a pop of colour or pattern to your walls without any damage.

3. Over-the-door organisers

Maximise your storage space and add some style to your room by using over-the-door organisers. These can hold your shoes, accessories, or even small decorative items. They simply hang over the door, making them a damage-free solution.

4. Lean, don't hang

Instead of hanging heavy items on the walls, lean them against the wall or place them on furniture. For example, lean a large mirror or canvas print against the wall on your desk or dresser. This not only adds style but also prevents any wall damage.

5. Use free-standing decor

Consider using free-standing decor items like floor lamps, room dividers, or tall bookshelves to add character to your room. These items don't require any wall attachment and can be easily repositioned.

6. DIY Fabric wall art

Create your own fabric wall art by stretching fabric over wooden frames or canvas stretchers. This adds texture and colour to your walls without any damage. Plus, you can easily switch out the fabric whenever you want to change the look of your room.

7. Corkboard or bulletin board

Hang a cork board or bulletin board on your wall to display photos, notes, and reminders. You can personalise it with fabric or paint to match your room's decor.

Personalised photo decor from myFUJIFILM

If you’re heading off to uni and want to inject some personality into your space, bring your memories to life with us at myFUJIFILM. 

From our High-Quality Photo Prints, to impactful Wall Art and our Shacolla shapes - there’s something for every soon-to-be student. Browse our Personalised Photo Gifts today.