Designing College Dorm Rooms: An Interview with Shelly Gates of Mary Margaret Designs
Are you a parent sending your child off to college? Or maybe you’re a student looking to spruce up your dorm room? Look no further than Shelly Gates, the mastermind behind Mary Margaret Designs based in Jackson, Mississippi.
Shelly’s journey into the world of dorm room design started with her daughter’s room at Mississippi State University in 2020. After winning a “dorm room of the year” contest on a mom Facebook group, Shelly gained the confidence to turn her passion for design into a thriving business. With over 20 rooms under her belt, Shelly has become the go-to designer for college students in the South.
What sets Shelly apart is her attention to detail and personalized approach to each project. She starts months in advance, using TikTok to find room dimensions and layouts, ensuring that every inch of space is utilized effectively. From selecting fabrics to scouring Pinterest for inspiration, Shelly’s creative process is meticulous and thoughtful.
When it comes to budgeting, Shelly splurges on bedding and art pieces that can easily transition to new spaces, while opting for affordable rugs that can be replaced yearly. She also emphasizes the importance of a well-designed bed skirt for maximizing under-bed storage while keeping the room aesthetically pleasing.
Despite facing some mean comments on her TikTok videos, Shelly remains focused on her ultimate goal – creating a space that her clients love. For her, dorm room design is about providing students with a home away from home and giving parents peace of mind knowing their children have a comfortable and stylish living space.
As Shelly continues to grow her business, she dreams of expanding her team and taking Mary Margaret Designs to new heights. Whether you’re a parent looking to transform your child’s dorm room or a student seeking design inspiration, Shelly Gates is the creative genius you need to know. With her passion for design and dedication to her clients, Mary Margaret Designs is sure to make your college living experience a stylish and memorable one.
