Nesting for a new arrival or not sure where to start with designing your baby's nursery?
Interior designer Naomi Coe from Little Crown Interiors, admired on Instagram for her beautiful, neutral nursery designs, has compiled a five point checklist, to help you create a timeless, stylish nursery that lasts beyond the baby days.
Choose a Convertible Crib. Most cribs have some type of convertible option. Some will convert to a toddler bed, and others to a twin bed. When you’re crib shopping, make sure to look for those features. If the crib you want requires a separate toddler rail or conversion kit, I recommend ordering that at the same time in case the model gets discontinued.
Image credit: Lauren Taylor Creative
Invest in a Quality Dresser. Many changing tables available are really just a regular dresser with a removable tray on top. The tray is mainly for decorative and organizational purposes, and can be removed when your child is past the changing stage. If you purchase a quality dresser, you can continue to use it for years to come! I recommend going with a piece that you think you will continue to love, so nothing thematic or juvenile that may go out of style.
Image credit: Lauren Taylor Creative
Splurge on Versatile Items. Think about the items that you are likely to reuse in the space and splurge in those areas, rather than on pieces that may get quickly removed. If you’re going to spend a lot of money on wallpaper, for example, choose a pattern that’s versatile enough to still enjoy when your child is past the baby phase. Keep in mind that things get dirty very quickly in a nursery so you can go a more affordable route for anything that’s likely to get stains and spills, or choose wipeable or washable options such as a Totter + Tumble baby play mat.
Image credit: David Cass
Go Easy on the Theme. If you have a theme in mind for your nursery, keep it simple. Choose thematic items that are more affordable and easy to replace, like wall art, crib sheets and smaller decor. That way, when you or your child are ready to level-up the room, you won’t be stuck with a bunch of expensive pieces to get rid of.
Image credit: Lauren Taylor Creative
Keep Your Storage Flexible. The storage needs in a nursery are ever-changing as your child grows. I always recommend having lots of easy-access storage, like a storage basket with a lid, so you can easily toss things in to clean up. Keep your closet organized, but keep in mind that those organization needs will change over time. Bins, hampers and modular storage solutions are great for the nursery closet.
Image credit: Lauren Taylor Creative
All images feature rooms designed by Naomi at Little Crown Interiors.
Follow Naomi at Little Crown Interiors on Instagram for more nursery decor inspiration or pick up her book; Your Perfect Nursery: A Step-By-Step Approach to Creating the Nursery of Your Dreams.