Sims 2 University - remodelled house but environment gone down?!?

I don't like the way the houses are pre-designed when I play Sims 2 so when I go to play someone I usually redesign their house. On Sims 2 University I have gone to the L'Academie place and redmodelled the house for Max and Mitch Friends so that they are living in the same house (I am going to move Mitch out as Max wants to start a fraternity) but in the main living area their environment is really low and I dont know why?! All the walls are painted, there is enough light etc etc