Interior design trends are ever-changing, and this is especially true as it relates to children’s spaces. When it comes to nursery design, many parents are turning away from the gender-focused pinks and blues and, instead, are adopting a more gender-neutral nursery design to break away from traditional stereotypes. Whether you’re having a girl, boy, or prefer to keep the gender a surprise altogether, these practical tips can help those looking to take modern, non-conforming approach:
1. Neutral Color Palette
The most obvious way to create a gender-neutral nursery is by using a neutral color palette. Having a neutral color palette is kind of like starting with a blank canvas — you can decorate it however you desire, plus it makes renovating the room as your child grows older a lot easier.
For a dreamy nursery, opt for soft tones i.e. beige, tan, gray, or muted pastels. Incorporating calming colors can be especially soothing for your baby, providing not only a calming environment, but a classic backdrop that you can easily build upon with varying accent colors and themes.
2. Accent Colors with Purpose
Speaking of accent colors, when designing your nursery, be sure to pick out hues that add personality. Think mint green or mustard yellow for colors that are stylish yet nonconforming to gender norms. You can integrate accent colors via lampshades, curtains, area rugs, and more to create a calming space for your baby.
3. Functional Furniture
Children grow up very quickly, so to keep up the pace, you should have furniture that can adapt to their growing needs. For example, a convertible crib can easily serve as a bed for your toddler. Or, by simply removing the changing tray, you can convert a changing table into a dresser used for storing nursery necessities such as diapers, blankets, or toys.
By shopping multi-functional furniture and decor, you can maximize their use, saving you a whole lot of money down the line.
Pro Tip: When picking out multi-functional furniture, be sure to select storage solutions that are not only practical and visually appealing as well. This way, you can enjoy a stylish living space that does the heavy lifting of decluttering and organizing for you.
4. Mix and Match Textiles
Designing a nursery provides the opportunity to tap into your creative side to truly create the perfect space for you and your baby. A great way to tap into your creativity is by experimenting with textiles that vary in color, pattern, or texture.
Try to mix and match patterns, such as polka dots, squiggly lines, or basic shapes to attract the eye. You can also use gender-neutral themes — i.e. animals, clouds, stars, and other kid-friendly designs that appeal to a wide range of preferences.
5. Imaginative Wall Art
You can infuse a spirit of adventure in your nursery with the help of a few art pieces. Opt for art that tells a story — i.e. wall murals that depict whimsical scenes or illustrations taken from popular children’s books — to create a playful wonderland that encourages your baby to imagine, explore, and grow.
6. Flexible Lighting Options
Finding the right lighting is an important step in any design process. And when it comes to designing a dreamy nursery, it can totally transform how your baby experiences their environment.
For example, an overheard pendant light can act as the main light source used during playtime or diaper changes. And wall sconces provide the perfect amount of direct light for nighttime feedings or general care while your baby is sleeping.
7. Whimsical Rug Choices
Placing a kid-friendly rug in your nursery is another great way to decorate without focusing too much on gender. There are TONS of sizes, shapes, and styles to choose from, from playful patterns to calming textures. Plus, not only can a rug provide a soft, cushioned place for your baby to play, the right rug can even act as a focal point of the room, making it a multi-functional addition to any nursery.
