How to Create a Baby Nursery

The crib is the most important necessity of a nursery.

The goal when designing a baby nursery is to create a tranquil space. A baby's first room is a place of comfort and stimulation in one, and should serve its purpose with only minor changes for as long as he's in diapers. After considering the walls, windows and floors of the nursery, it's helpful to mentally divide the contents into necessities--such as a crib and storage--and personal details, like photos and artwork. The necessities give the room structure, and the personal details give the room character.

Instructions

1. Look at the room and reconcile the vision in your head with the reality of the space. Note any drafty areas that would limit crib placement. Is the room dark or saturated with light? The amount of natural light in a space affects what colors work best.

2. Examine color schemes with an eye toward some variety, which adds dimension to the overall design. Aim for a main color paired with a neutral, and bring in two or three accent colors. For example, if pale pink is the main color, the neutral could be sea green, chocolate brown or ivory. Accent colors could include deep pink, light yellow or turquoise.

3. Replace old carpet or flooring, if practical. In terms of cleanliness, hard surfaces are preferable to wall-to-wall carpeting. Cork flooring is a health-conscious choice because it doesn't harbor hidden chemicals and comes from a renewable resource. Wood floors are the traditional choice for a nursery.

4. Install window treatments with two things in mind: design and practical use. An excessively bright room isn't conducive to a mid-day nap. Room-darkening shades combined with fabric valances provide a way to control light as well as add to the room's décor. Long cords and even long curtains pose a hazard to a crawling baby---wind cords to keep them out of reach, and hang curtains that don't reach past the bottoms of windowsills.

5. Acquire a crib that complements your overall design. A white crib looks fresh in a nursery with a lot of saturated colors, and dark wood plays off pale walls. Cribs are either standard or convertible. A convertible crib reconfigures into a toddler bed and uses the same mattress. Most babies make the transition to a bed between the ages of 2 and 3; a convertible crib will remain in use for another couple of years, at least.

6. Acquire remaining furniture depending on your space and needs. A comfortable chair is a must for most people, especially during all the late nights of infancy. A changing table has the advantage of storing everything you need for the baby in one place. However, some people forgo the changing table in the interest of space, instead keeping a floor mat and diaper bag handy. A dresser is indispensable in a room lacking a closet and provides a surface for a lamp and personal items.

7. Add the final, personal touches. Buy a whimsical print for the bedding. Hang artwork that both harmonizes with the room and stands out. Add a low light option, such as a table lamp or a night light, so you can see at night without turning on the overhead light. Add an area rug for warmth and extra color on hard floors. Find one unique item for your nursery that makes the space more interesting, such as a handmade mobile or a colorful glass chandelier.

References

• "Feathering the Nest"; Tracy Hutson with L.G. Mansfield; 2009
• "Baby's Room: Ideas and Projects for Nurseries"; Jessica Strand; 2002
• "Baby Space Idea Book"; Suzonne Stirling; 2006