8 Stylish Dorm Room Updates

Dorm rooms lack architecture and detail, so add some of your own by framing your favorite prints. Shop sites like Etsy for fun and motivational prints, or create a DIY piece.

Summer's tip: Contemporary artwork can be a great way to add life to an otherwise boring space. Photo courtesy of Jen Ramos

Maximize your living space by going vertical. Use shelving to store books, computer equipment and paperwork that needs to be filed away.

Summer's tip: Use height anywhere and everywhere possible. Bookcases and wall racks can help de-clutter and maximize vertical space. Photo courtesy of Jen Ramos

Dorm rooms are small, so make your space as efficient and organized as possible. Customize your closet to effectively use space. Create extra wardrobe space for things that won't fit into small dorm room closets.

Vanessa's tip: Use storage bins that can be placed beneath your bed to save space. Photo courtesy of Vanessa De Vargas

Invest in furniture that serves more than one purpose. An ottoman can give you seating and storage in one piece, while a trunk can also function as a table.

Summer's tip: Use a filing cabinet as a side table that holds papers and pencils and offers space for a reading lamp. Photo courtesy of Summer Thornton