How To Arrange a Dorm Room For Privacy

Take stock of the furniture in the room. A dresser or wardrobe can double as a space divider, letting you study — or not — in peace.

Try placing one bed against a wall, with the back of one desk next to the bed. Arrange the other bed and desk similarly, but against the opposite wall. This way, whether you’re sleeping or studying, you won’t be in each other’s faces.

Consider hanging drapes around your bed. Your dorm mates will stop laughing once they see the great night’s sleep you get with your blackout curtains.

Move vertical screens or freestanding curtain dividers around the room as needed — like in front of your roommate when they’re sucking face with someone.

Invest in a good set of noise-canceling headphones so you can enjoy your music — and your sanity — while your roomie is making a ruckus.

Work out a schedule with your roommate so that you both can count on some solo time every week. Maybe they can make themselves scarce on Monday and Wednesday evenings and you can do the same on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Be realistic. Realize there are going to be times when you get on each other’s nerves. Hey, there’s always the library!