A Tale of Two Twins: Decorating Their College Dorms

The Art of Dorm Room Decorating: A Tale of Twin Personalities

As summer rolled in, my daughter’s excitement bubbled over with the anticipation of college life. “When can we go shopping for my college dorm room?” she asked repeatedly, her eyes sparkling with dreams of vibrant colors and cozy corners. Little did I know that this shopping trip would not only be about picking out bedding and decor but also a delightful exploration of their distinct personalities.

A Shopping Trip with a Twist

Once we settled on a day for our shopping adventure, I turned to her twin brother, curious if he wanted to join. His response was a simple, “Nope.” Meanwhile, their younger sister was eager to tag along, even offering to help choose items for her brother’s dorm. It was a clear reflection of their personalities: my daughter, the planner and artist, was ready to curate her space, while my son, the laid-back minimalist, was content with the essentials.

Different Strokes for Different Folks

My daughter’s vision for her dorm was clear. She wanted a space that reflected her artistic flair, filled with colors and designs that spoke to her creative spirit. She didn’t hire an interior designer, but her plans were thoughtful and intentional. On the other hand, my son’s approach was refreshingly simple. He opted for a plain gray comforter and basic necessities, showing no interest in the aesthetics of his space.

This contrast became even more apparent when we arrived at their college. Moving my daughter in took twice as long as her brother’s process. While he had a minimalist setup, she arrived with a treasure trove of items: a cozy rug, a stylish chair, a rolling cart filled with supplies, and a collection of art that would soon adorn her walls.

The Decorating Process: A Tale of Two Styles

Once settled in, the decorating process began. My son quickly made his bed and unpacked his clothes, while my daughter spent hours meticulously arranging her posters, organizing her drawers, and stringing up fairy lights to create a warm ambiance. She even brought a plant, a nod to her love for the outdoors, cultivated during her summer job at a garden center.

A Year of Growth and Change

Fast forward to their sophomore year, and while much of their decor remained the same, there were subtle changes that reflected their growth. My daughter, having lost her first plant, decided to purchase a new one from the New York Botanical Garden, where she enjoyed free admission as a Fordham student. She also added a plant poster and some of her own artwork, infusing her space with fresh life and creativity.

My son, still loyal to his gray comforter, decided to add a rug and some posters that showcased his love for music. He even included LED strip lights to brighten up his dimly lit basement dorm, allowing his personality to shine through in his space.

A Bond Strengthened by Shared Experiences

Despite their differing personalities, attending the same college has brought my twins closer together. My daughter even helped her brother pick out a rug for his dorm this year, and they’ve committed to weekly dinners to explore the city’s culinary delights together. Who knows? Perhaps over those meals, they’ll swap decor tips and spark the idea for a quirky twin design business.

In the end, their dorm rooms became more than just living spaces; they became reflections of their personalities, growth, and the unique bond they share as twins. As they navigate college life, it’s heartwarming to see how their differences complement each other, creating a beautiful tapestry of experiences that will last a lifetime.