College dorms are notorious for their cinderblock, jail-cell atmosphere. Most people get sick of the pale white walls, which may or may not have been painted within the past ten years. One of the first steps in livening up your dorm room is to introduce some color.
Now that spring is coming, flowers are one option for bringing color and fragrance to a rather unwelcoming space. Most of the rooms on campus have a window that gets at least a few hours of sunlight a day, which is necessary for most plants except bamboo. Bamboo does not require any direct sunlight.

The best place to look for plants of all kinds is the flower district. This area resides on one block of West 28th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues. One side of the street has some shops that sell garden supplies and silk flowers for those who are unable or unwilling to keep a plant alive. The radiators and badly insulated windows of most dorms are very hard on plants, so not spending too much on any particular plant is advisable. The other side of the street has many stores that are frequented by floral designers who make arrangements for large hotels and restaurants in the city.

These are no-frills stores that do not provide much in the way of friendly sales people. You can pause to look and ask questions, but they will assume that you want to make a purchase. However, do not feel pressured into a making a purchase. Look at all of the shops before making a final choice. The colorful spring flowers line the sidewalk. All of the stores charge the same price for the same type of flower. At this time of year, the tulips are beautiful and cheap, going for only $6. Orchids are plentiful and large, priced at $35. For $25, you can find smaller versions of the same orchids at Home Depot on 23rd Street. The last shop at the end of the street by 6th Avenue sells interesting bonsai and succulent plants. Most cost $15.

Another option for those who are not interested in plants is paper garlands. Pearl River Mart on Broadway a block or two North of Canal Street sells many different home decorations for decent prices. This large emporium carries all kinds of Chinese candy, clothing, fabric by the yard, trinkets, wallets, and plants. The paper garlands cost $4-5 and can be hung by push-pin tacks along the edge of the ceiling. Pearl River also has Chinese lanterns and lantern lights.

These are just a few ideas to help you make your dorm a little homier. The best option is to bring some of your favorite items from home. Surround yourself by things that make you happy.

source : media.www.thestute.com