Before you buy anything, take photos of your room or flat. Trust me, it helps so much when you\u2019re planning what to bring or buy. If you\u2019re 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 \u2013 things like a bedside lamp, storage baskets, or even a rug can make a huge difference.<\/p>\n Second-hand is your best friend: <\/strong><\/p>\n Cardiff is full of charity shops, especially around Albany Road and City Road. I\u2019ve 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\u2019re quick.<\/p>\n Get creative with what you have: <\/strong><\/p>\n If your landlord is strict about putting things on the wall, don\u2019t 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 \u201cme.\u201d You can also drape fairy lights around shelves or your bed for instant cosiness (and they look great in photos).<\/p>\n Soft furnishings are a game changer: <\/strong><\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Plants, real or fake: <\/strong><\/p>\n 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\u2019re braver than me, try a spider plant or a peace lily – they\u2019re basically indestructible.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t be afraid to rearrange: <\/strong><\/p>\n 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\u2019t stress if it\u2019s not perfect straight away – your room will probably change a lot over the year.<\/p>\n Personal touches: <\/strong><\/p>\n 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).<\/p>\n 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\u2019re far from family or just need a cosy corner to escape to.<\/p>\n – Muskaan Pahwa, 3rd year Journalism, Media and English Literature student<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"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. 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