What’s the best way to design and decorate a traditional nursery?
Nurserys play a monumental role in nurturing the growth and development of your little one. If you’re expecting a new addition to your home, chances are you are already dreaming up the design, color, and style of your nursery (and how you landed on this page!).
Unlike other rooms in the house, nurseries have their own set of unique considerations beyond mere aesthetics. Safety, accessibility, and sensory stimulation all play crucial roles in crafting a space that fosters growth and exploration for your baby.
Whether you're in the process of a nursery remodel or looking to makeover your existing one, these are the key elements to include in your design:
- Paint or Wallpaper: Select a color or pattern that sets the desired mood for the nursery and complements the traditional style you want to achieve. We are partial to covering walls, ceilings, and trim in a uniform paint color to create a cohesive look. Or consider an accent wall to serve as a focal point.
- Crib: The crib is the centerpiece of every nursery, providing a safe and comfortable sleeping space for the baby. It is where the little one will spend most of their time resting and sleeping. A crib often comes with a mattress and can be adorned with cute bedding and a mobile to engage the baby's senses. Many cribs these days are convertible to grow as your baby does.
- Changing Table: A changing table is a practical addition to a nursery. It provides a dedicated space for diaper changes and storage for diapers, wipes, and other baby essentials. You can find dedicated changing tables or can turn any sideboard or dresser into one with a proper changing table topper.
- Rocking Chair or Glider: A rocking chair or glider is a lovely addition to a nursery, offering a cozy spot for feeding, soothing, and bonding with your baby. It provides a comfortable seat for parents or caregivers during those precious moments. If you have the space, we recommend pairing your rocking chair or glider with a footstool or ottoman for maximum comfort.
- Dresser: A dresser is often included in a nursery to provide storage for baby clothes, blankets, and toys. It helps keep the nursery organized and ensures that everything is easily accessible when needed. Your changing table may double as a dresser, but trust us, you’ll be thankful for the extra storage if you have the floor place.
- Storage Shelves or Bookcase: Storage shelves or a bookcase can be used to display books, toys, and decorative items in the nursery. They add a touch of charm and provide a place to keep items within reach.
- Area Rug or Playmat: Soon enough, your baby will be crawling around. Make sure you choose an area rug or playmat that takes up the majority of your square footage and will be comfortable for both you and your baby to spend countless hours playing on.
- Decorative Lighting: Combine task, ambient, and accent lighting for a layered lighting scheme. Typically in a nursery, you’d want a flush surface mount on the ceiling and wall-mounted sconces or table lamps near the crib or rocking chair. Consider the placement of lighting fixtures to eliminate shadows and evenly light the space. Dimmer switches can adjust the mood.
- Curtains or Blinds: Window treatments not only help control the light, they help promote a restful sleep environment for your baby, while also adding a layer of privacy and warmth. Opting for blackout or heavy, lined curtains can enhance these effects, making them perfect for ensuring your baby’s comfort and tranquility. Don’t forget a curtain rod!|
Get creative and have fun with your traditional nursery! If you need an extra hand, check out our step-by-step guide on Nursery Design.
How do you select a color palette for a nursery?
Choosing the right color palette for your nursery is an exciting (and fun!) process. Incorporating color (or the lack thereof) into a space will dramatically influence the mood and aesthetic. While it may be tempting to hit up your local hardware store to buy a gallon (or two or three) of paint, and go to town, the planning process is an important step. No one wants to repaint a room once the furniture is in. So, here’s the best way to think about incorporating color into your space:
First, set the mood: Before deciding on your color palette, think about the mood or atmosphere you want to create in your nursery. Yearning for a calm and serene environment? Or perhaps a vibrant burst of energy? Different colors evoke different emotions, so choose hues that align with the desired mood or vibe of the room. Warm-toned colors (reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks) can make a space feel warm, inviting, and cozy. Cool-toned colors (greens, blues, purples, grays, and most whites) can make a room feel grounded, calming, and clean. But, using too many warm colors can make a room feel closed off, and too many cool tones in one room can make a space feel cold and unwelcoming. Neutral colors (blacks, whites, and browns) add a sense of sophistication and professionalism to a space.
Then, choose a color scheme: Now for the fun part! Once you’ve selected the mood, you can start to build your color palette. Take into account existing furniture and decor elements. Choose colors that complement or skillfully contrast your furnishings to create a cohesive look. A handy tip to a cohesive color story? Use the 60-30-10 rule as your guide. The dominant color (60%) sets the tone, the secondary color (30%) adds depth, and the accent color (10%) brings a pop of interest. Your dominant color in your color palette may be the color you choose to paint your walls or the color of a large area rug. Your secondary color may be used for upholstery or statement furniture. And for that final touch, the accent color brings a spark and is usually found in artworks, cushions, or decorative pieces. If you’re going for a monochromatic color scheme, consider the 60-30-10 rule in terms of shades of color.
Finally, find balance and contrast: Once you’re ready to start applying color in the nursery design with paint or decorative touches, achieving the right balance between colors in your color palette is crucial. Consider the visual weight of each color and distribute them evenly throughout the space. Neutral colors are often paired with brighter accent colors to contrast a space. Pairing complementary colors (opposites on the color wheel) or juxtaposing shades of light and dark can enrich your design with depth and complexity.
While some colors are more popular than others for certain rooms or design styles, pick a color palette that feels right to you. Interior design is all about self expression. You do you. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to express your unique style. Want more interior design color tips? Check out our free online interior design course on Color Theory.
How do you pick a design style for a nursery makeover?
Picking an interior design style for your nursery is a personal and immersive journey. It starts with introspection and an exploration of your aesthetic preferences, daily habits, and the overall ambiance you wish to create. We recommend the nursery style match nicely with the rest of your house. Consider the architecture of your home, the flow of natural light, and how the space is used to ensure the design style not only looks appealing but also serves your needs effectively. The goal is to create a space that feels inviting, comfortable, and uniquely “you”.
There is no right or wrong way to define your style. Start by gathering ideas and inspiration. Identify what colors, moods, and materials you are drawn to. Are you drawn to the clean lines of modern design? The warmth of rustic charm? The rich textures of bohemian flair? Or the sleek functionality of minimalism? Your chosen style should resonate with your personality and make your space feel like a true extension of yourself.
There are dozens of design styles. One style may speak to you the most and you’ll be ready to go all in (do it!). If not, mixing elements from different styles can yield a unique, eclectic look that’s distinctly yours. Need some help defining your style? We created our own design style quiz to help you learn more about what you gravitate towards in design. The result is like the perfect blend of your personality and home. Take the quiz and your Spoak Sign be your inspiration.
Once you know the design style you want to achieve for your nursery makeover, the fun begins! You can start planning out your color scheme and decor ideas.
What materials and home decor should I use to achieve a traditional nursery design?
Don’t let anyone tell you traditional interior design is synonymous with boring. A traditional design style exudes elegance and comfort, drawing inspiration from the 18th and 19th centuries in Europe and America. It's characterized by classic details, sumptuous furnishings, and a sense of orderly decor. Rich wood tones, decorative moldings, and an emphasis on symmetry contribute to the style’s formal and refined aesthetic. The traditional style creates a timeless and inviting atmosphere, where every piece tells a story of heritage and sophistication.
To achieve a traditional aesthetic in your nursery, start with a neutral color palette for the walls and layer in rich textures. If you are set on a darker color, consider richer earth tones like chocolate, maroon, or navy, or a mix of colors in a patterned wallpaper for a more luxurious feel. Chenille, silk, brocade, and velvet are great fabric choices for upholstered furniture and window treatments. Bring in decorative elements that are more ornate like gold picture frames, chandelier light fixtures, oil paintings, and vintage rugs and textiles.