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Renter Friendly Bedroom Decor Ideas for Students

  • Published 01 May 2026

    6 minute read icon

  • Modified 01 May 2026

    by Journal Student Living

Moving into student accommodation is an exciting moment. Your room quickly becomes your place to study, relax and recharge.

The best part is that you do not need a huge budget or permanent changes to make your room feel like home. With a few simple and renter friendly decor ideas, you can personalise your space without damaging walls or furniture.
Here are some easy bedroom decor ideas that work perfectly for students living at Journal Campus House.

Use the pinboard to personalise your wall

At Journal Campus House, rooms include a pinboard, making it easy for residents to decorate their space in a renter friendly way.
You can pin up things that inspire you or remind you of home, such as:

  • postcards or travel photos
  • event tickets and small memories
  • weekly schedules or study reminders
  • polaroids with friends
  • lightweight jewellery like necklaces or earrings for easy display and storage

Over time, your pinboard naturally becomes a collage of your life in Melbourne.

Image from Sza – Medium Studio at Campus House

Add soft lighting for a cosy atmosphere

Lighting can completely change how a room feels.
A small desk lamp or warm LED light strip can make your space feel more relaxing, especially in the evenings after a long day of classes.
Many students also like using fairy lights around shelves or the pinboard to create a softer and cosier atmosphere.
Just make sure the lighting is plug in or removable, so it stays renter friendly.

Bring in plants (real or artificial)

Plants are one of the simplest ways to make a room feel more alive.
If you enjoy caring for plants, small indoor varieties like pothos, succulents or snake plants are low maintenance and work well in student rooms.
If you prefer something easier, artificial plants can still add colour and texture without any upkeep.

Large Studio Apartment at Campus House

Use textiles to add colour and personality

Textiles are a great way to change the look of a room without making permanent changes.
You can personalise your space with:

  • colourful cushions
  • a throw blanket
  • a textured rug
  • patterned bedding

These small additions make the room feel warmer and more comfortable while still being easy to move when you relocate.

Display photos and memories

Photos are one of the most meaningful ways to personalise your space.
Many students create small photo displays using:

  • mini photo clips
  • string lights with clips

It is a simple way to surround yourself with favourite memories while living in student accommodation.

Image from Jannat – Medium Studio at Campus House

Keep your desk inspiring but functional

Your desk is where you will likely spend a lot of time studying, so keeping it both organised and inspiring helps maintain focus.
Some students like adding:

  • a small desk organiser
  • a favourite mug for pens
  • a motivational quote or postcard

Real rooms, real inspiration

One of the best ways to get decorating ideas is by seeing how other students style their rooms.
We have asked some Journal Campus House residents to share photos of how they decorate their spaces, using renter friendly ideas that make their rooms feel comfortable and personal.
From photo walls to cosy lighting setups, these real student rooms show how small touches can completely transform a space.

Thank you to Journal Campus House residents Jannat and Sza for sharing some images of how they decorate their spaces.

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