Peekaboo Design Group

If I have learned anything by assisting couples in creating their dream nursery, it is that the nursery is a very important space. 

Adding a baby to the family is an exciting time.  It is also a very stressful time.  For first time parents, it is the unknown.  For a second+ child, it is the balancing act (aka. the unknown!).  That is why I believe you need to create a 'safe space' for baby, of course, but more than anything, for you.  A space that you can walk into and exhale.  This is my goal every time I assemble a nursery.  I know my job is done when I've spent three long days in a room and after it is complete, I do not want to leave.

Have you ever redone a room in your home and afterwards you can't help but walk in and out of that rooom over and over....just to take it all in one more time?  Maybe, you're doing more in that room...reading, working or hanging out with the family.   This is what we strive for in the nursery.  In between the endless cycle of feeding, burping, changing, rocking to sleep all while you get zero sleep, you might as well have comfy, cozy surroundings.  I call this the "3am Getaway".  While you envelop and care for baby, let your nursery evelop and care for you.

So, based on numerous friends and family member's experiences coupled with my direct experience with clients, below is my advice and a few tips for alleviating stress and acheiving a comfy, cozy space.

Things to Remember in the Nursery Creating Process

1.)  Don't worry so much about baby "Growing into the Space"

Here's what generally happens:  You buy the adjustable crib.  You use the crib until baby is one or two then, here comes baby #2.  Baby #1 needs a new space because he/she has formed likes and has to have that Princess or Train room.  Plus, there's a new baby coming and you want Baby#1 to have something special.  Almost always, a new bed is bought for Baby #1 and Baby  #2 uses the old crib.  Now, either baby#3 comes along and the whole cycle starts again or just part of the cycle continues with Baby #2 forming their own likes now wanting that Dora or Cars room.  Here's the mystery.  I, seriously, don't know anyone who has converted their crib into that full size bed...even for the last kid.  I'm starting to think it's an urban legend.  The question:  Where do all of these adjustable cribs go? 

Remember, kids interests change often and, so can their space. This is why I am so insistant that parents build a nursery around their own style and colors that are comforting to their senses.  A happy space for you means a happier you.   Baby feeds more off your emotions than they do a circus clown room.  That's just my personal opinion.  And, trust me, the primary circus clown colors will work their way into your home easy enough!  You might even add items to the nursery that could be moved to other rooms in the house later. 

TIP:  Simple things that will always grow with your child:  Dresser, Bookshelf, Floor Pillows, Solid Colored Rug 

2.)  Do not wait until after baby is born on things that could be done today!

This really pertains to anything....I advise you get announcements, portraits, anything you know you have to have before baby is even born.  But, let's focus now on the nursery.  If you think that you will hang that shelf or finish that art work for above the crib after baby comes...you won't.  If you are reading this as someone who has completed the rest of their nursery after your baby was born...right here, right now I say, "You are amazing and of a different breed."  Seriously. 

Get that space ready...extra diapers, lotion, anything you could possibly need.  Set that space up so that your not reminded of what 'needs to be done' everytime you walk into the room.  Make sure you are ready to do nothing but care for your baby and yourself.

TIP:  If you are stuck and you know your nursery needs more but, you don't know what else to do (and, you're tired to boot!) shoot me an e-mail.  Send me a pic of the space even.  I will help in anyway I can because I know the frustration!

3.)  Do not Stress about finding the perfect Bedding.

I have to admit some of my favorite nurseries are the ones where we have created the plush, unique, custom bedding.  But, here's the jest.  I will give you two solutions.  One, if custom bedding that will make your friends drool is important to you and you're willing to spend a little bit more, give me a call.  We do not use standard fabrics.  I do an assessment of what you like and/or want and then personally shop for current fabrics.  The result is one-of-a-kind bedding that no one else will be able to replicate.  I can even work via e-mail and phone.

Two, if you're just not finding what you want and you don't want to spend that much, I have discovered a simple solution.  In assembling nurseries, I have noticed that the longer crib skirt really adds a lot to the look of the crib.  It is often the most visible and it definitely gives a richer look.  There is an example of our crib skirt in the picture above.  So, here's what do:  A. Choose a solid chenille bumper.  You can find these at Babies R Us for $30 in 4 main colors (blue, cream, pink or green).  B. Contact us.  We can customize a long crib skirt using most fabrics for $135.  Add a coordinating stripe, polka dot or floral crib skirt to a solid bumper and you have a totally different, custom look.  C.  Find a soft throw that coordinates the look or we can create that as well. 

TIP:  If all else fails, change your focus of the nursery from the bedding to the art work and/or wall color.  Make that your statement and just use a simple solid bedding set.

Create That Comfy, Cozy Space

So, all day, every day, this is what I do...nurseries.  I shop, I research and I assemble.  I love it but, it is hard work.  My crew and I always wonder how expecting parents juggle their hectic lives and track down all of the items needed to complete this very special room.  Not to mention all of the labor (nursery labor!).  Many parents reach a point of frustration when trying to assemble their nursery.

In each nursery, here is what I have found as essential in achieving a warm, inviting space...notice there is not much emphasis on the furniture and the bedding.

TIP #1:   Find your inspiration:  Art Work, Wall Color, Bedding, Figurine...whatever!  Note the colors and style of that inspiration and stick with it!  Your first instinct is almost always the best.

TIP #2:  Paint the room a muted, earth tone color, darker than you would normally choose for a baby's room.  It helps to think outside of the baby pastel colors as well.  Think of it as a space for you.  That will help you in looking at different colors in order to get a unique and calming space...for you...remember that.  Baby will come.  If you want the standard pink, blue, sage or lavender, make sure to choose colors with a gray undertone.  They will not be as bright.

TIP#3:  Always use a rug...and, not a bath mat size rug!  If it will fit nicely in your bathroom, don't even think about it!  5x8 is almost always a perfect size and it helps protect the floor underneath.  My favorite rugs right now are the frise shag rugs.  A simple black, brown or cream rug is all you need.  The frise's are great because they're nice on the feet and they can hide stains.  You can also cut stains out of a frise rug. 

 TIP #4:  Use large pieces on the wall.  I've said it before and I will say it over and over again...what's up with the little bitty nursery art?  The baby's small and the crib is small but, the walls are the same size!! Look in different places for your art...home accessory stores, poster stores.  Think outside of the little 8x8 canvas.  If you can't find what you want...go to an art store, buy a large canvas (or several) and paint something!  Even a solid colored canvas will look great.  If there is a big brother/sister...let them help.  They do great work. 

TIP #5:  Use lamps and or overhead lights on dimmers.  Lighting can make or break the mood of a room.  Soft lighting helps add to that enveloping feel.

Remember:  If you are using large heavy pieces over the crib...bolt them to the wall.  You can add extra security by bolting and then using zip ties for extra support.  

Design Your Comfy, Cozy Nursery in A Day