Ideas
How To Create a Dreamy Neutral Nursery
Designing a neutral nursery is a wonderful way to create a calming space for your little one. Whether you’re waiting to find out the gender of your baby, want a versatile space that can change as they grow, or just prefer a minimalist style, this guide gives you all the key elements to consider when creating a beautiful and functional nursery. We’re covering everything from stunning nursery furniture to décor, palettes and everything you need to consider in between. So, come with us as we delve into how to create a dreamy neutral nursery.
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Image credit: SMUB Studio | Rex Whiticker
Neutral Nursery Palette Concepts
The first step in creating a neutral nursery is deciding on the palette. A neutral nursery palette is usually filled with warm, light tones and plenty of texture. This helps to create a soothing atmosphere that won’t feel stark. We recommend starting with a neutral wall colour, such as Natural White from Dulux, and soft flooring, such as Tussore - Lupine from Bremworth. Having a neutral base will then allow you to build further texture and interest when it comes to your fittings, furniture, and décor.
Looking to further elevate your home? Discover 13 minimalist bedroom designs that are stylish and functional.
Image credit: Jessi Eve | Villa Styling
Image credit: Jessi Eve | Villa Styling
The Importance of Choosing the Right Nursery Furniture
The next step is choosing the right nursery furniture. When it comes to nursery furniture, you want to choose pieces that are timeless and versatile. For example, nursery dressers should offer both ample storage and years of durability. We recommend opting for something made out of quality material, such as timber, making it both aesthetic, functional, and sturdy.
In addition, it’s important to choose a nursery chair that offers both comfort and style. Rocking chairs or recliners with soft, neutral upholstery can easily fit into any room design. Ensure the chair has enough support for your back and arms, and consider one with an ottoman for added comfort during those late-night feeds.
Mood board by gwhitelock on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Mood board by Our Vienna Living on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Nursery Décor to Elevate
Neutral nursery décor is all about creating a serene and inviting atmosphere, you want to set the right tone for the space. Wall art, soft toys, and decorative items in pastel or earthy tones can add warmth to the room without overpowering it. Incorporate textures like knitted throws to add depth and interest to the space.
Visualise your dream nursery using our mood board tool.
Image credit: The Palm Co
Nursery Wallpaper for Character
Wallpaper is perfect for adding character and personality to your nursery. You can use wallpaper with subtle patterns and textures, or even a beautiful mural that illustrates a soothing scene. We recommend using tones that evoke calmness and tranquility, such as soft greys, warm beiges, or muted greens.
Image credit: Liberty Interiors
Image credit: Liberty Interiors
Creating Ambience Within Your Nursery
The right kind of lighting is essential in a nursery. A combination of overhead lighting, something softer, like a dimmable lamp, and a night light, are all recommended for different times, depending on how you’re using the nursery. We love the idea of keeping lighting minimal when it comes to your neutral nursery. But no matter what lighting solutions you choose, soft, warm bulbs are ideal for creating a soothing environment.
Mood board by Zenn House on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Mood board by Miss Amara on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Nursery Window Dressings
Your nursery window dressings should be a combination of both aesthetics and practicality. We recommend blackout curtains or blinds as these are essential for controlling light and ensuring your baby can sleep at any time of the day. Then for an aesthetic touch, add a set of neutral sheer curtains to soften and warm the space.
Image credit: Liberty Interiors
Nursery Flooring for Style and Comfort
When it comes to nursery flooring, comfort and safety are the key elements. Wall-to-wall carpeting can provide a soft surface for your baby to crawl on, while rugs can add warmth and texture to that space. Don’t be afraid to even layer rugs on top of carpets for some extra depth. We recommend choosing rugs with non-slip backing and materials that are easy to clean for a practical touch.
Image credit: Jessi Eve | Villa Styling
Image credit: Jessi Eve | Villa Styling
Storage Solutions
Adequate storage is so important when trying to maintain a clutter-free nursery. Use baskets, bins, and shelves to organise toys, books, and baby essentials. Opt for storage solutions that can be easily accessed and that blend seamlessly with the room's décor.
Mood board created on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Safety First
Always keep safety in mind when designing your nursery. Ensure that furniture is securely anchored to the wall, use cordless window dressings, and keep small items that pose choking hazards out of reach.
It’s important to familiarise yourself with safety standards when it comes to creating your dream nursery.
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Creating a neutral nursery is an exciting project that allows you to design a timeless, versatile space for your baby. By focusing on neutral tones, soothing décor, and practical yet stylish elements, you can create a beautiful and functional nursery. Remember, the most important aspect is to create a space where you and your baby feel relaxed and happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you set up a nursery?
To achieve a nursery that perfectly blends functionality with comfort and safety, there are a few things to consider:
Choose the Room: Ideally, the nursery should be in a quiet area of the house with good ventilation and natural light.
Decide on a Theme or Colour Scheme: Choosing a nursery theme is maybe one of the most exciting parts of setting up a nursery. Will you go for more earthy tones and channel a nature-inspired space? Or maybe animal-themed with plenty of plush toys. Whichever theme you choose, we recommend opting for a neutral space that will be versatile and calming for everyone.
Select Essential Furniture: The key pieces of nursery furniture are a crib or cot, a changing table, and a comfortable chair for feeding and soothing the baby. If the nursery is big enough, you could also include a dresser for clothing and a bookshelf or storage for toys.
Plan the Layout: Arrange the furniture efficiently. The crib should be located away from windows, heaters, lamps, wall decorations, and cords to ensure safety. The changing table should be conveniently located for easy access during changes.
Decorate: Add decorative elements like rugs, curtains, wall art, and soft lighting to create a cosy atmosphere.
Organise Storage: Utilise baskets and shelves to keep necessities like nappies, wipes, clothes, and toys organised and easily accessible.
Safety Check: Ensure all furniture is sturdy and anchored, if necessary, use cordless window treatments, and keep the crib clear of pillows, heavy blankets, and stuffed animals.
How do you organise a small nursery?
Organising a small nursery requires maximising space while maintaining functionality:
Use Vertical Space: Install shelves and wall-mounted storage to keep the floor space clear.
Multi-functional Furniture: Choose items like a crib with built-in storage, or a changing table that can double as a dresser.
Under-Crib Storage: Utilise baskets or drawers under the crib for extra storage.
Declutter Regularly: Keep only essential items and regularly clear out things that are no longer used or needed.
Wall-Mounted Changing Stations: Consider a fold-down changing table to save floor space.
Organisational Accessories: Use drawer dividers, closet organizers, and storage bins to keep everything in its place.
What colours look best in a neutral nursery?
When designing a neutral nursery, the idea is to create a calming and serene environment. Here are some colour and tone suggestions that work well in a neutral nursery:
Soft Grey: Grey tones are versatile and can create a soothing and modern atmosphere. Lighter greys work especially well in nurseries.
Cream or Beige: These warm neutrals add a cosy and inviting feel to the room. They pair well with almost any accent colour.
Pastel Greens: Soft greens bring a touch of nature into the nursery. They are calming and work well with wooden furniture.
Pale Yellow: A subtle yellow can brighten up the space without being overpowering. It's cheerful and gender-neutral.
White: Warm white can make the nursery feel clean, fresh, and open. It's a classic choice that also allows for colourful accents in decorations and toys.
Light Taupe: This is a sophisticated neutral that adds depth to the room without making it feel too enclosed.
Muted Blues: Soft blues have a calming effect, making them a popular choice for nurseries. They can be complemented with greys and whites.
