Eion Nunez and Orson Ford, freshman film majors at USC, turned their bland dorm room into a Hollywood-inspired retreat using just $1300, vintage finds, and movie set pieces.
- Dorm makeover costs only $1300
- Used local movie prop houses and thrift shops
- Viral videos inspired fellow students
What happened
Incoming freshmen and film production majors Eion Nunez and Orson Ford decided to transform their typical USC dorm room into a personalized retro dream pad. Instead of spending a fortune on designers or new decor, they tapped into local movie prop resources and thrift stores to create an authentic Hollywood vibe. Their budget? Just $1300.
Using a mix of reclaimed film set pieces—including a stand-alone fireplace and a working popcorn machine—they completely revamped their bare, beige-walled shoebox into a cinematic sanctuary. Their creative project drew widespread attention online, with videos showcasing their efforts going viral on TikTok and Instagram.
Why it feels good
In a campus culture where dorm room makeovers often come with high price tags, Nunez and Ford’s approach shows that creativity and community connections can beat cost. Their use of actual film props and vintage finds adds real personality and warmth to what could have been a purely functional space.
The transformation not only brightened their living quarters but also sparked a sense of excitement and inspiration among fellow students. Many praised the duo’s ingenuity, while others eagerly anticipated invitations to their unique Hollywood-inspired dorm gatherings.
What to enjoy or watch next
Although the roommates had to return the room to its original condition at the end of the school year to get their deposit back, their first-year success has set the stage for an even grander project. Now sophomores, Eion and Orson plan to recreate their cinematic magic with additional roommates and a larger space.
For those looking to recreate the magic on a budget, following their social media channels or searching for similar thrift and prop store treasures is a great place to start. Their story is a reminder that with some ingenuity and resourcefulness, even a modest dorm room can become a stylish haven.