Create stylish nurseries that grow right along with your baby
Many interior designers relish the opportunity to create a nursery, since these soothing spaces call for creativity, color, and whimsical touches. We checked in with area experts on how they approached recent nursery projects, creating personalized rooms that form serene, sophisticated backdrops for story time, nap time, and other meaningful family moments.
Stylish Nurseries
For a truly charming and comforting nursery that appeals to both baby and parent, I recommend focusing on a serene and cozy environment while incorporating sophisticated touches. The goal is to create a space that feels both sophisticated and incredibly comforting—a true sanctuary for the newest member of the family and a peaceful retreat for parents.
Christine Pokela, Designed for Downtown
This little girl’s nursery is painted an unconventional blue. The added millwork gives it a classic look that works well with the framed grasscloth wallpaper panels. We added elements of blush pink with the beautiful pleated-silk trim on the crib skirt and on the painted dresser that doubles as a changing table.
I like to incorporate forever furniture in a nursery, such as an upholstered chair and ottoman, as well as a dresser that can be used as a changing table. We used a stained vintage bamboo shelf to display books and trinkets, bringing depth through its rich patina and adding that well-loved charm only a vintage piece can offer.
Kathleen Reynolds, Kathleen Reynolds Interiors
When designing a children’s space, it’s always a good idea to use something vintage or passed down. It gives the space a sense of grounding and ties it back to the family history. Bedrooms should be calm and soothing, so muted colors are typically preferred. In this cute little nook designed for grandchildren, we designed a place for everything. Built-in bookshelves at the foot of the bed and drawers underneath the mattress ensure the space stays tidy, even on long visits.
Stephanie Swander, Stephanie Swander Interiors
A classic nursery never goes out of style. The soft Lullaby walls set a soothing backdrop, perfectly complemented by Jordan Connelly’s Sailboats for Pearce fabric—an always classic choice for a little boy’s space. Each item in this nursery was carefully selected for both functionality and comfort, while keeping in mind that a nursery is a temporary stage that deserves thoughtful investment.
Special, sentimental pieces elevate the room. From the family heirloom bed and hand-painted artwork by Melanie Kinsey to the custom lampshade in Thibaut fabric, each adds a unique and personal touch.
Of course, no nursery is complete without a comfortable rocker. In this nursery, a swivel rocker in off-white performance fabric offers the perfect blend of style, practicality, and comfort—designed to fit different sizes and provide lasting coziness for late-night snuggles.
Barbara Dalton, Barbara Dalton Interiors
Nurseries are such a delight to design! We focus on creating a space that will grow with the child—a design that isn’t overly grown-up and still has some whimsy, but within which easy swaps can be made as the child grows and changes. These spaces are the best mix of function and fun.
This cloud and swallow wallpaper pattern is an example of an ageless design, with a palette that evokes a vintage illustration rather than a typical baby boutique. The flowing clouds and scattered birds offer enough sophistication to remain suitable as the child grows. It’s a space that can easily transition into a cool hangout with albums on the wall and bean bag chairs.
Louise Hane, Louise Hane Interior Design
