The Controversy of Designer Dorm Rooms: A Student’s Perspective

Are Designer Dorm Rooms Worth the Hype?

Have you, too, found yourself scrolling on TikTok, only to stumble upon a “rushtok” set in a room that looks like a green screen of a Pottery Barn Teen catalog? Designer dorm rooms have become increasingly popular on social media, showcasing beautifully decorated spaces that rival high-end home decor. But are these designer dorm rooms worth the hype?

Growing up in the South, I have seen my fair share of designer dorm rooms, both online and in person. At first, I was skeptical of the concept – why spend so much money on a room you only live in for a short period of time? However, my perspective shifted when I started college and moved into my own dorm.

I loved my first-year dorm and took pride in decorating it with my roommate. We added personal touches, like posters, mementos, and even a disco ball I brought from home. Our total spending on decorations was under $500, and the process of creating a space we were proud of was a memorable part of our first year.

On the other hand, the trend of hiring interior designers to create designer dorm rooms is on the rise. Some students are spending upwards of $10,000 on fully designed rooms, complete with custom furniture and decor. While I respect personal choices, I struggle to justify spending that much money on a dorm room, especially as a first-year student.

One aspect that gives me pause is the annual sale of dorm-related items at the end of the school year. Students often sell their designer decor to make room for new styles, highlighting the transient nature of dorm room aesthetics. This cycle of buying and selling designer items raises questions about the practicality and sustainability of investing in designer dorm rooms.

While designer dorm rooms may be popular in some regions and colleges, I question their long-term appeal. Moving away from home to college often leads to changes in style and aesthetic preferences, making designer dorm rooms a potentially short-lived trend. Ultimately, how you choose to decorate your dorm is a personal decision, but I believe that designer dorm rooms are impractical and unrealistic for most students.

As a biology and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies major from New Orleans, I value creativity and self-expression in design. While designer dorm rooms may be visually appealing, I believe that the true beauty of a dorm room lies in the personal touches and memories you create within it. So, before you splurge on a designer dorm room, consider the value of authenticity and individuality in your living space.