5 Eco-Friendly Ways To Decorate Your Accommodation

Art by Ben Cameron

It’s the time of the year where a bunch of 18-year-olds suddenly realise they’ll be moving out next month. This is an absolutely terrifying time for even the bravest souls; leaving your family to take on university and a new life elsewhere is daunting, so making this transition as eco-friendly as possible can easily slip your mind. Here are five easy ways to make your new accommodation feel like home, in a greener way.

1. Charity shop trinkets. These places are a goldmine for unique home décor. They have all sorts of trinkets, such as wacky candle holders and decorations from all over the world. Once I managed to find a bowl made from recycled telephone wire that was made in Kenya! You can even get your dinnerware and other first home essentials from the charity shop – and it’ll be a lot cheaper than buying it all new.

Feel free to get creative with what’s available! Keep an eye out for thinner plant pots that suit your style, as you can also use them to store stationary. You could use a scarf as a table cloth or to hang up on your wall.

2. Plants. Once you’ve picked up some plant pots from the charity shop, you’ll have a place to grow some plant friends! There are loads of different types of plants, so there will always be something for everyone. I’m more of a functional person, so most of mine are herbs and spices, but decorative plants are just as lovely. Plants serve to filter and add oxygen to the air, which can help you concentrate while studying.

3. Sentimental items. Bring some things from home! We have a lot of these around, especially signed posters and old cuddly toys - one of the first things I packed was a Pokemon plush toy I've had since I was three years old. You can also ask family members for hand-me-downs, as I can guarantee at least one will have stuff they don’t need anymore. They’re a lovely way to remind you of home, so will be especially important during the periods of homesickness that come with moving out.

4. Art. Keep an eye out for art that suits your style, either in charity shops or by independent artists. I love using Etsy to find art, because you know you’re supporting a small business and the art will be unique! Pictured is a doodle from local artist Ben Cameron.

Of course, art doesn’t have to be the traditional painting or drawing. It can also mean things like wall hangings and tapestries. Have a look for second hand tapestries on eBay, as former students will often sell theirs on. You can also buy new ones made from environmentally friendly materials such as hemp in "hippie" shops like Siesta, which also supports local craftspeople across the world.

5. Throw blankets and pillows. These are a great way to personalise your bed with little effort or impact! Don't run down to Primark like most students will do. Instead, have a look on second hand sites like eBay, or ask friends and family if they have any they don’t want. You'll end up with things that are more unique and reflect your personality better. It never ceases to amaze me what high-quality items people will throw away!

Remember that you can make the move itself more eco-friendly by using bags and containers you already own instead of buying loads of boxes. Do you have any tips for eco-friendly decorating? Let me know in the comments, and have a wonderful day!

- Bethan