How To Decorate A Small Nursery Or Kids’ Room
Decorating a small nursery or kids’ room can feel like a challenging puzzle, but with a bit of creativity and strategic planning, you can turn even the tiniest space into a cozy, functional, and stylish haven for your little one.
CREATING HARMONY AND SPACE
When decorating a small nursery, it’s essential to choose a colour scheme that makes the room feel open and cohesive. A tonal colour scheme, where various shades of a single colour are used, is an excellent approach.
Why It Works: Using different shades of one colour creates a unified look that can make the space appear larger and more harmonious. For instance, a range of soft blues, greens, or even blush tones can bring a soothing and expansive feel to the room.
How to Apply: Start with a light base colour for the walls, such as a soft pastel or a neutral hue, and then layer in deeper or lighter shades of the same colour through bedding, curtains, rugs, and accessories. This layering adds depth without overwhelming the space.
CHOOSE FURNITURE WISELY FOR STYLE AND FUNCTION
In a small nursery or kids’ room, every piece of furniture needs to serve a purpose, ideally more than one.
Multi-functional Pieces: Look for furniture that can grow with your child or serve multiple functions. A crib that converts into a toddler bed or a dresser that doubles as a changing table saves space and money.
Vertical Storage: Utilize vertical space by opting for tall dressers, wall-mounted shelves, or hanging organizers. This keeps the floor area clear, making the room feel more spacious.
Proportionate Sizing: Choose furniture that fits the scale of the room. Avoid oversized pieces that can make the room feel cramped. Instead, opt for streamlined designs that are proportional to the room’s size.
MAKING THE MOST OF LIGHT IN A SMALL SPACE
Light is a powerful tool in making a small room feel more open and airy.
Maximize Natural Light: Keep window treatments light and airy. Sheer curtains allow natural light to filter in while maintaining privacy. Avoid heavy drapes that can make the room feel closed in.
Mirrors: Strategically place mirrors to reflect light and give the illusion of more space. A well-placed mirror can double the perceived size of the room and brighten up darker corners.
Light Colours: As mentioned in the tonal colour scheme, using lighter shades on the walls, ceiling, and floor can help reflect light, making the room feel larger.
LAYERING LIGHT FOR FICTION AND MOOD
Good lighting is key to creating a cozy and functional nursery or kids’ room.
Overhead Lighting: Start with a central ceiling light to provide ample general lighting. Choose a fixture that complements the room’s style, whether it’s a playful pendant or a classic chandelier.
Task Lighting: Add task lighting, such as a reading lamp near the rocking chair or a small lamp on the dresser. These are essential for nighttime feedings or bedtime stories.
Ambient Lighting: Incorporate soft, ambient lighting with string lights, wall sconces, or a nightlight. These create a warm, inviting atmosphere and provide a comforting glow for your child during the night.
CREATE A FOCAL POINT
In a small room, a well-chosen focal point can draw the eye and make the space feel intentionally designed.
Feature Wall: Consider creating a feature wall with wallpaper, a bold paint color, or a mural. This adds visual interest without overwhelming the room. The wall behind the crib or bed is an ideal spot for this.
Art and Decor: Hang a large, impactful piece of art or a collection of smaller prints in a gallery style to create a focal point. This not only adds personality but also gives the room a finished look.
Statement Furniture: If space allows, a statement piece of furniture, like a beautifully designed crib or a cozy armchair, can serve as the room’s focal point. Just ensure it doesn’t overpower the space.
Decorating a small nursery or kids’ room requires a thoughtful approach, but with the right strategies, you can make even the smallest room feel spacious and inviting.
Happy decorating!