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    Photo by Michael Nowakowski / North by Northwestern

    Let’s be honest: Dorms and first apartments are often the ugliest of spaces, particularly dorms with little-to-no decorating freedom, because apparently everything is flammable. Luckily, you can improve your space’s appearance just by playing with the lighting. The following are some tips from Communication junior Ned McGregor* on how to make your prison-like room feel homier, whether you live on campus or not.

     

    Light what you like

    Natural light is one of the best ways to liven up a space, but if your apartment or dorm has few windows, being able to control your lighting is important. Standing lamps and desk lamps you can turn on and off will illuminate what you like and help draw attention away from what you don’t.

     

    “Just think about what makes sense with the space that you’re in and what you want to show off about that space,” McGregor says.

     

    Color speaks volumes

    If you’re looking to give your space some personality, don’t be afraid to play with color. You can purchase strips of colored LED lights at Home Depot, or you can order them online. Some come with remotes that allow you to change the color. White lights are great for everyday lighting, while the color-flashing options will instantly turn your room into party central. Swapping out one or two bulbs for colored ones is also an easy way to alter the atmosphere. Don’t try to mess with the overhead dome light in your dorm, though. Some ugly just can’t be undone.

     

    The softer the better

    Even if your room gets a lot of natural light, sunlight can be harsh, especially if you have white walls. Draping thin curtains over your windows will soften the light coming through them and make the room seem warmer.

     

    “Thin curtains turn the whole window into a pa- per lantern,” McGregor says.

     

    Paper lanterns are also a good way to bathe your room in soft light. Plus, they come in enough shapes, sizes and colors to compliment any style. Stay away from opaque curtains unless you don’t want any light coming through your window.

     

    Placement is key

    Choosing the right fixtures for your space is only half the battle. Making sure you put them in the right places is just as important.

     

    “Strip lights and rope lights work best if they mirror some form of architecture,” McGregor says.

     

    If you have LEDs or Christmas lights, McGregor suggests using them to frame your door or window. You can easily hang them with command hooks or electrical tape. If you have an apartment, be mindful of furni- ture placement. You don’t want to have a well-lit area like a desk be masked by the shadow of a large dresser. That’s a waste of good lighting.

     

    Don’t go too crazy

    If you’re using color, stay away from contrasts. If you have a red light shining on a green dresser, that dresser will look black. This is not the best way to make your space look homey and inviting. That is, unless you’re really into Film Noir, because this is as close to black and white living as you’re going to get.

     

    *Full disclosure: Ned McGregor is an NBN photographer.

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