Flat Decor on a Budget: Making Student Housing Feel Like Home

When I first moved to Cardiff for uni, I was honestly more worried about making friends and finding lecture halls than what my room looked like. But after a few weeks, I realised how much your space matters. It’s where you crash after a long day, pull all-nighters, or just binge Netflix with your flatmates. Making it feel like home doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and after three years (and three different flats), I’ve picked up a few tricks.

Start with the basics:

Before you buy anything, take photos of your room or flat. Trust me, it helps so much when you’re planning what to bring or buy. If you’re in halls, most stuff like desks and beds are provided, but private rentals can be a bit more unpredictable. Make a list of what you actually need – things like a bedside lamp, storage baskets, or even a rug can make a huge difference.

Second-hand is your best friend:

Cardiff is full of charity shops, especially around Albany Road and City Road. I’ve found fairy lights, cushions, and even a cute coffee table for a few quid. Facebook Marketplace is also a goldmine. Most students are desperate to get rid of stuff at the end of term, so you can grab bargains if you’re quick.

Get creative with what you have:

If your landlord is strict about putting things on the wall, don’t worry. Use command hooks or washi tape for posters and photos. I covered one wall with postcards and polaroids from nights out and trips, and it instantly made the room feel more “me.” You can also drape fairy lights around shelves or your bed for instant cosiness (and they look great in photos).

Soft furnishings are a game changer:

Never underestimate the power of a good blanket or some colourful cushions. Primark, IKEA, and even supermarkets have loads of affordable options. A bright throw can hide a dodgy old chair, and cushions make any space feel more inviting. I swapped out my boring desk chair for a fluffy cushion and suddenly wanted to actually sit there and study.

Plants, real or fake:

I am terrible at keeping plants alive, but even a couple of fake succulents from Tiger or IKEA make a room look fresher. If you’re braver than me, try a spider plant or a peace lily – they’re basically indestructible.

Don’t be afraid to rearrange:

My flatmate and I have moved our living room furniture around at least five times this year. Sometimes just changing the layout makes the whole space feel new. Don’t stress if it’s not perfect straight away – your room will probably change a lot over the year.

Personal touches:

Photos, your favourite books, a mug from home, or even your old school scarf. Little things like this are what actually make a space feel like yours. I even brought my childhood teddy (no shame).

Decorating on a budget in Cardiff is honestly about making the most of what you have and not being afraid to try new things. Your student flat might not be forever, but making it feel like home can make all the difference when you’re far from family or just need a cosy corner to escape to.

– Muskaan Pahwa, 3rd year Journalism, Media and English Literature student