Designing Your Perfect Nursery
Creating the perfect space for your new baby can be a daunting task. Many new parents struggle with just how to create the perfect place for their new addition. Don’t worry! There are many ways to create a nurturing, creative, and safe space for your baby.
Start with the basics. Think about this space the same way you would about any other area of your home. It is a common misconception that the nursery has to be an alternate universe covered in characters, baby motifs and jungles, and that does not have to be the case. Nurseries can be stylish, sophisticated and beautiful!
Your nursery can be an extension of your personal style, just tailored to your baby. It should be a place for not only your baby to enjoy, but for you to enjoy as well. The room does not have to look like everyone else’s in your neighborhood. Try these tips for translating your taste into a nursery you will adore:
Draw inspiration from something you love
It can be anything from a piece of art, to a special blanket, to a family heirloom. Next, think about why you love it. Is it the color? The shape? The sentimental value of the piece? Take these elements and apply them to the practical aspects of the space.
In design, there is a common saying that “form follows function”
VOC=Volatile Organic Compound
VOC’s are toxins that are emitted into the air for years after being applied to a surface through paint, finishes and other products. There are now more earth and health friendly paints available to consumers at almost all retailers. They are safe for you, your child and the environment.
Think about this when you are selecting your furnishings. Choose functional pieces that meet your needs. Find a crib that meets all of the safety standards and then let your imagination take over. Do you love orange? Why not paint a standard crib with a beautiful shade of orange using low VOC paint? It is safe for baby and will give you a crib that no one else has. Go through each part of your nursery this way keeping the “form follows function” saying in the back of your mind.
Re-purpose old furniture
This is a great way to create a unique look and incorporate green design by re-using a piece. Need a changing table, but you don’t like the look of the ones you are seeing in stores? Use a dresser; whether antique or new, they make great changers that can be used through the child’s life. Always measure the piece to be sure it is the correct height for you and the correct width for a changing pad. Many changing pads come with safety straps that can be screwed into the back of a dresser so they are secure from sliding off with baby in tow. When using an antique piece, keep in mind that if it is painted, there could be lead paint on the surface which can be harmful to baby. Be sure to scrape and clean the piece before repainting it with a safe alternative.
Shop where you wouldn’t think you should shop for a nursery
Obviously, you need baby essentials such as a crib, etc. But beyond those necessities, feel free to bring your taste into the space. Buy an area rug and an end table from your favorite home store. Select items that you would use in other areas of your home. Just use some common sense: avoid sharp corners, anchor heavy pieces to a wall, and provide soft floor coverings in areas for baby to explore.
Use lighting to set the space apart from others
People often over look lighting, but it truly creates the ambiance of a space. Be sure to set the room up with several levels of lighting keeping the baby’s various activities in mind. For example, having an overhead ceiling light is great for daytime play, but try putting it on a dimmer switch so you can create the mood you want. Try adding some table lamps that are out of reach from your little one, this will provide soft, ambient light for resting and story time. Find a fixture that you absolutely love and use a bulb that provides a soft light to surround your baby with warmth. Energy efficient bulbs are now available in many different color temperatures and wattages. Like furniture, some lighting fixtures can be painted for a custom look.
Add visual interest with pattern and color
Make sure your nursery is a nurturing, comfortable and stimulating space. Provide contrast in various areas of the space. Whether it is a graphic rug or a throw with the alphabet on it, babies need stimulation for their development. There are subtle ways to incorporate these elements into your space without going overboard. One idea is to include black and white photos of family and loved ones around the space. Baby will love pointing them out to you as they learn to recognize names and faces.
There is inspiration all around you in your everyday environment. Take some time and try to recognize things that you are really drawn to and why. If you start a collection of these items, you may see a pattern beginning to emerge. Surrounding you and your baby with things you love will make the space truly unique. The best advice for creating your perfect nursery is to truly make it yours.