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4 Top tips for making your flat look festive on a budget

26 November 2021

To help get you and your flatmates into the festive mood, UCL student Martha Neugarten shares her top tips for decorating your flat in the lead up to the holidays.

Candy canes, pine cones and presents wrapped in brown paper and string on a wooden table.

1. Mix up your lighting

Festive decorations start and end with fairy lights!

As a resident in UCL Accommodation, you’ll need battery operated ones, but these are commonly available and budget friendly.

John Lewis has some good options from as little as a fiver. Why not also get some LED candles to go the extra mile!

2. Have a festive playlist on the go

Michael Bublé - need I say more? 

Check out the festive playlists available on Spotify and remember that students can get Spotify Premium for free for 1 month, then for only £5.99 a month afterwards.

3. Introduce some festive scents

While candles and air fresheners aren't allowed if you live in UCL accommodation, reed diffusers are a great and affordable alternative to get your flat smelling warm and cosy.

Alternatively, you can DIY your own by simmering a mix of water, oranges, and some festive spices. Take a look at this step-by-step guide.

4. Make your own decorations

Making your own festive decorations is a great way to take a break from the business of term, spend some quality time with your flatmates, and decorate on a budget! 

My go-to is dried citrus slices, as any citrus fruit can be used and the result is long-lasting. 
You can string them together to make garlands or wreaths, or you can attach them to presents to give to friends and family. Take a look at this easy-to-follow guide.


Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash