Transforming Dorm Rooms: How One Mississippi Teacher Became a Sought-After Dorm Designer

Designing Dreams: How Shelly Gates Transformed Dorm Rooms into Stylish Sanctuaries

When you think of college dorm rooms, the first image that comes to mind might be cramped spaces with bare walls and mismatched furniture. However, in the heart of the South, one teacher is redefining what a dorm room can be. Meet Shelly Gates, a 49-year-old educator and interior designer from Jackson, Mississippi, who has turned her passion for design into a thriving side business specializing in college dorm room makeovers.

A Dorm Room to Remember

It all began in 2020 when Shelly designed her daughter’s dorm room at Mississippi State University. With a keen eye for aesthetics and a flair for creativity, she transformed the small space into a cozy yet chic sanctuary. After posting photos of her work on Facebook, the response was overwhelming. Her daughter’s room won a “Dorm Room of the Year” contest in a local mom group, igniting a spark that would lead to a new venture.

“I always loved design,” Shelly shares. “And down here in the South, people make kind of a big deal about the dorm rooms.” This cultural emphasis on creating beautiful living spaces for college students became the foundation for her business, Mary Margaret Designs.

From One Room to Many

What started as a single project quickly blossomed into a full-fledged business. Shelly has since designed over 20 dorm rooms across various universities, including Ole Miss, Southern Methodist University, and the University of Southern Mississippi. Each project presents its own unique challenges, from understanding the dimensions of different dorm layouts to coordinating with parents who want the best for their children.

“I did just one room my first year. Then I did seven, which really got me in over my head. This year, I limited it to just five projects,” she explains. The meticulous planning and attention to detail required for each room can be overwhelming, but Shelly thrives on the creative process.

The Design Process

Shelly’s design journey begins months in advance. She uses platforms like TikTok to gather information about room dimensions and layouts, ensuring that her designs are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. “I always start with the fabric the student wants. From there, I’ll scour Pinterest, TikTok, and Instagram for inspiration,” she says.

Her approach is comprehensive; she not only focuses on the visual aspects but also on practical elements like organization and storage. “I make sure Mom has a checklist for the batteries, the light bulbs, the trash can, things like that,” she adds. The goal is to create a space that feels like home while being easy to maintain.

Splurging Wisely

When it comes to budgeting for dorm room decor, Shelly believes in splurging on key items that will last. “I spend more money on bedding and lamps because they can carry over to new spaces well,” she explains. Art is another essential element, as it adds personality and warmth to the room.

However, she’s practical about certain purchases. “I always try to get a cheap rug, especially during Amazon Prime Days,” she laughs. “These are 18-year-old kids — they don’t need a Persian rug.” Her focus on functionality ensures that students have a stylish yet practical living space.

Embracing Southern Culture

In the South, the tradition of decorating dorm rooms is taken seriously. Shelly notes that many moms want to create a beautiful environment for their children, and she’s proud to be part of that process. “I think a lot of the moms see that, and also just really want to give something nice to their kids,” she says.

Despite some criticism she receives on social media, Shelly remains unfazed. “I read hate comments sometimes and think, ‘Well, I don’t really tell you where to spend your money, right?’” Her ultimate goal is to create spaces that make students and their families happy.

A Bright Future Ahead

As Shelly continues to grow her business, she dreams of expanding her team and taking her passion for design full-time. “I teach fourth grade full-time, so it started out as a fun summer thing, but I would love to do it full-time,” she shares. With her talent and dedication, there’s no doubt that Shelly Gates will continue to transform dorm rooms into stylish sanctuaries for years to come.

In a world where college can often feel overwhelming, Shelly’s designs offer a touch of home, comfort, and style, proving that even the smallest spaces can be transformed into something truly special. Whether it’s a cozy nook for studying or a chic space for socializing, Shelly Gates is making dorm life a little more beautiful, one room at a time.