Many Gen Z college students, including those at West Chester University, are turning their tiny dorm rooms into stylish designer spaces, writes Erin McCarthy for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
They are spending months getting inspiration from TikTok and Pinterest, coordinating with future roommates, and shopping for essential items such as stylish headboards and chic “fridge bridges.”
The goal is not to earn social media points, but to ensure the college transition is as comfortable as possible.
Reese Dennison, a freshman at West Chester University, chose a coastal theme with blue, gold, and white tones for her dorm room. She spent about 100 hours preparing and purchasing items for under $2,000. Among the room’s standout features is the desk hutch, complete with a white skirt and lighted mirror.
To create an inviting and comfortable space, she advised keeping it as simple as possible, avoiding any clutter. She also said it is good to start planning early, which will give enough time to get everything done and spread spending.
It is also okay to splurge on some things, like a mattress, but make sure to save on others, like a micro-fridge, which Dennison got off Facebook Marketplace.
Read more about West Chester University dorms and how students are transforming their living spaces in The Philadelphia Inquirer.
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on VISTA.Today in September 2025.
