For parents-to-be, whether you want to be surprised or know the gender of your baby, you need a space ready for your newborn when they arrive home from the hospital. The interior design professionals at Decorating Den offer some tips and tricks on what to consider when decorating your newborn’s nursery.
Color: When it comes to color, there are so many options to choose from for a nursery. Traditionally for girls, popular colors include shades of pink and purple. Conversely, for boys, shades of blue and green are among the most popular colors. Popular gender neutral options range from lighter shades of green and yellow. For a more modern nursery, opt for neutral colors like gray and white and integrate pops of color in the accessories.
Furniture: You and your baby will be spending a lot of time in the nursery, so make sure to invest in comfortable (and functional) furniture. Susan Sutherlin, a San Diego interior decorator, advises parents to purchase cribs with changing tables built in to avoid clutter and free up some extra space in the room. Don’t forget a rocking chair or glider that’s comfortable enough to spend long nights in. Other necessary furniture may include hampers, diaper pails, and a dresser to store baby clothes.
Room Layout: The next step to consider when decorating a nursery is where to put all of your furniture and accessories. A crib placed close to the bedroom door is easily accessible, whereas a crib under the window can feel drafty. Be sure to keep the area around the crib free of clutter. If the changing table is not already attached to the crib, make sure to arrange it so it is close to the crib, again for easy access.
Curtains & Window Dressings: Use curtains or window dressings to enhance the theme of your baby’s nursery without taking away from it. Opt for roller shades, as they can be easily concealed during the day and can be dressed up with fabric valances or curtains. Interior decorator Heidi Sowatsky recommends avoiding floor-length draperies because as your child develops and eventually learns to walk, these become a hazard just begging for children to pull on.
Flooring: For parents looking to avoid allergens and dust mites, hardwood flooring is the answer. This type of flooring is also easier to clean and maintain, and can be accented with a throw rug. Another favorite among parents is carpeting since it provides soon-to-be toddlers with a safe, plush landing surface as they start to walk. Each option of flooring comes with pros and cons, so it really comes down to personal preference.
Décor: Add personality to your baby’s nursery with room decorations. Hang a family photo on the wall over your newborn’s crib, or add wall decals of beloved story characters. Incorporate baby’s name into the room décor by using ornamental wall letters. Adding any or all of these touches will make your baby’s room more personal.
Bedding: For parents who have chosen a theme for their baby’s nursery, bedding can really tie the room together. The focal point of a nursery’s motif, bedding should be comfortable but safe for your newborn. Parents should consider things like crib bumpers, as well as any safety warnings on bedding and accessories when setting up a crib.
Consider all of these elements to ensure your baby’s nursery is a relaxing, comfortable environment.
