Nursery Design Reveal!
The pressure to make this nursery something spectacular has been intense- mostly of my own doing, but also because it’s been such a long time coming and I want it to be beyond perfect! While I was long debating the bold versus serene vibe, I knew in my heart that I wanted something soothing but also with a modern edge. So I decided to really mix both traditional items with modern ones- buffalo plaid, scenic wallpaper, lucite, brass and streamlined furniture. I am loving it, and I think when I’m trapped inside all winter with a newborn it will be such a peaceful place to relax with the baby. And I know there are lots of people who will think this is impractical or not “bold” enough for the baby- but it’s basically where he will sleep and feed. The rest of my house in so black and white I think he’ll develop just fine. :) So here it is!
leather elephant bookends // side table // floor lamp // leather pouf
The design began with a grisaille Susan Harter mural wallpaper. I have long wanted to use a grey scenic wallpaper somewhere in my house, and this turned out to be the place to do it. I was debating between this and a more graphic block print navy and white paper, fearing the mural would be too feminine- but then I decided I have lots of time to do a bold room for this kid. And only one chance to do a baby nursery. Let’s face it- I’m a designer for a living so by the age of two this kid will probably have a completely different room. So I went with the grey mural paper and accompanying light blue, grey and white scheme. This is the section we are using. I was inspired by this nursery but wanted more color and more modern furniture (but less expensive paper than this INSANE deGournay!)
I also have long loved the feeling of this image.
So this is the section I chose for the wall behind the crib- I hope it looks as amazing as I think it will. It’s printed on durable canvas so spills or anything unsightly can be easily cleaned- a huge bonus! It’s a bit warmer in tone than this picture shows…
I am BEYOND thrilled with my crib choice- the Campaign Crib by ducduc in white and bleached walnut. OBSESSED with this style because it’s slightly boyish without being heavy or boring.
I decided to go with the Morgan changer by ducuduc in the same finishes- complete with leather strap handles! It’s wide and offers tons of storage. And I love the stripe of wood down the middle- so me!
I was totally stuck on the idea of using a big buffalo check for the window treatments and have decided to go with Robert Allen’s Checkered Out. It’s a mix of grey and a blue that has a tint of green to it. It’s so cute.
I have yet to decide on a couple things- the wall colors being one of those things! I’ve been sampling this past weekend, and am down to Benjamin Moore Horizon, Alaskan Husky or Wickham Grey. I want a grey/ blue that is quite light and soothing.
(Left Column: top-BM Horizon, bottom- BM Wickham Grey // Right Column (top to bottom): BM Alaskan Husky, F&B Borrowed Light, F&B Cornforth White, F&B Strong White)
The other items I have not decided is the Sharon Montrose photograph. I know SO many nurseries have these in them, but I LOVE them (and animals). So I’m trying to decide between the baby giraffe, the grown lion (could be used in a big boy room), the baby elephant (diiiieeeee) and the lion cubs. I like bringing in the warmer colors of the lions or giraffe as opposed to matchy matchy elephant- but he’s so darn cute.
The rug (that I think I’m using) is from Loloi and is traditional in pattern, but in soothing tones of grey. I plan to use a big sheepskin over it in the center for fuzzy tummy time too.
And yes, I’m using my dream Jonathan Adler Jacques bookcase in here. It can be cleated to the wall at the top and most likely will make it’s way into another room in the house when the little guy becomes mobile anyways- but I just LOVE it in here for the non-mobile time we have. :) I also am doing the brass Jonathan Adler Sputnik semi-flushmount on the ceiling! It’s going to look so fab. :)
The glider/ recliner on the board is not the one we ended up going with- we sat in the Little Castle Monterey this weekend and loved it- high arms for feeding and so soft and cushy. Andrew is insistent we use a recliner in here because I think he plans to sleep in the nursery a lot :) We also realized that our doorways are super narrow (a little under 30″) and most gliders/ recliners are way bigger! This one is 30″ exactly- but we still may have to hoist it through the window!
I’m going to do this in a medium grey with white piping (not this print). I have to say, there are SO few good looking gliders that also recline! I see an opening in the market for some good designs!
One the room is actually DONE, I’ll share all the final sources. In the meantime, we have a lot of work to do in the next 3 1/2 months!
* A big, huge thanks to Wayfair and ducduc for helping me create my absolute DREAM nursery. Some items in the room were gifted by these two great companies.
Browse:
Beautiful! I second the folks who mentioned making the curtains blackout shades. Adding these added literal hours of sleep for our little guy. I cannot emphasize enough what an absolute godsend this was during year 1. I’m actually looking to replace my roman shades for baby #2 because they fit in the window frame rather than outside it, which lets in light around the edges despite blackout backing. Anything for sleep! And welcome to mommyhood – as is clear from the comments the judgment begins the moment you get pregnant and NEVER ENDS, while your husband will be praised to high heaven every time he changes a diaper…
[…] Read On » […]
Nice, but where’s the baby in here? It seems so adult-like. Baby will have many grown up rooms but can only have a baby/first room once and it should be sweet – not this ‘grown-up’.
Just don’t agree that this should be space for parents as its your little ones first room!
These are beautiful ideas! You are the designer so you dont need much advice! But….I have used Wickham Gray in my old kitchen and now in a bedroom in my new house. Virtually every person who saw either room says “Oh thats such a nice pale green.” Definitely looks green when its up on a wall. Another nice true blue gray (thats lighter than Alaskan Husky) is Bunny Gray. Cant wait to see that wallpaper when its up. Amazing. Congrats to you.
Hi! Does anyone know the name of the Lolio rug?
Nevermind! Finally found it- for anyone else curious- it’s Loloi Pierce Collection.
WOW you made some great choices! Love that crib…and so many of the other items as well. Can’t wait to see the finished product.
Such a BEAUTIFUL nursery for your sweet boy! Looks just like you. Thank you for continuing to share your journey with us. As a long-time reader (since 2007), I can’t imagine if you ever stopped posting, although I’m sure it crosses your mind when you read some of the not so kind or overly “helpful” comments. I just wanted to acknowledge that I’m sure it’s a lot to continue to share your life so openly, particularly when you bring little ones into the mix – thank you!!
We chose the baby elephant photo for our nursery (baby due next week), and we love it!
This is absolutely gorgeous! So thrilled for you, Erin. I just found out I’m pregnant and I am loving all of your ideas!
I knew you would rock it. Quite possibly the most stylish yet still baby-appropriate nursery I’ve ever seen.
Isn’t fun to imagine your little man in such a space? May you have many wonderful memories there:)
I’m already anticipating how you’ll change it as he grows!
You “three” are going to be SO HAPPY in just THIS ROOM!!! It is just fabulous…fantastic design complete with love. franki
Absolutely stunning Erin!! And here I thought you’d have a Winnie the Pooh nursery with matching lamp, light switch, rug and curtains ;-)
I LOVE IT! It looks likes it will be very peaceful when you’re in there with the babe for hours, you or Andrew. I think you’ll be fine with the bookcase as it’ll be attached to the wall.
Miss Mustard Seed used a very similar wallpaper in her bathroom and it looks fabulous there and if it works in a bathroom I can’t see why it wouldn’t work in a nursery. I really love the whole design.
So gorgeous. I’m obsessed with ducduc designs! I didn’t see anyone else mention this (sorry if I missed it), but just wanted to throw out there that the Enchanted brand at Walmart is made by Little Castle for anyone looking for a budget alternative. I’m a little embarrassed to even mention Walmart on this blog (and a little nervous I’ll get jumped on for saying I’m embarrassed by Walmart, with the way everyone is jumping on each other), but I just thought I’d share that little tidbit. Please don’t judge me for mentioning Walmart on such an opposite-of-Walmart-taste blog and please don’t also judge me for bashing “Walmart-taste-and/or-budget”? ?
I love your nursery design! People need to chill. You can still have pretty things just because you have a child. And good move getting a glider you like. I spent many, many hours in mine with a baby who was not a good sleeper! We had a bookshelf in our nursery and it was attached to the wall as well. Once they become mobile you just have to move a few things up higher. I was never one to have my house look like Toys R Us exploded in there.
There’s nothing about this I dont LOVE! BTW my vote for paint is the BM Alaskan Husky.
Love Love Love it. So beautiful and calming. I know you and your little one will enjoy it. Can’t wait to see the completed room
Absolutely design this as a baby room…for you! (And Andrew). You will be the ones spending time in there and noticing everything. I said the same thing, it will be a baby room obviously, but for us. Kid rooms are for later.
And seriously everyone, kids and babies do not destroy everything. Yes you will have to clean the occassional spill but everything does not need to be outdoor fabric, vinyl, wipe able, or plastic. And yes I have kids.
Looks great!
I LOVE your design board so much! It’s going to be absolutely perfect :-) Thrilled for you, Erin! xoxo
Love it! Did you happen to try FB Light Blue? I used it in my last living room and absolutely loved it.
OOOhhh i hope that lady who freaked out and accused you of turning this into a mom blog isn’t reading today. Who doesn’t get a smile on their face looking at baby stuff?
Love! A peaceful nursery is most important!
Erin and her brothers somehow managed to grow and thrive with little special concern for nursery design. Outlet covers were about the extent of it! A little discipline and attention are what it takes to keep a toddler safe. Baby Gates will be where his mom/ dad are. The room is beautiful , serene, and Erin…….can’t wait!!!!
True that Momma! Trust me, when you get a knock on the door that Jr. has just mooned a passing car from the front yard, you’re gonna need this sanctuary room #beenthere!! I sure appreciate your blog and sure hope you continue to share with us. K
i have this glidder and love it!
https://www.montedesign.net/modern_nursery_glider.html#.Vbag37U43L0
I wish they made a recliner version so much!
Guess helpful advice should only be given on a specific mommy blog and not on what is clearly, so state several commentors, a design blog. My mistake. Thought this was open to all comments, but apparently just those in agreement, according to some rather barbed replies.
I didn’t realize advice would be construed as judgment or interference when coming from someone who has raised two children to adulthood and seen enough accidents in my own home and others to warrant advising caution. Whatevs. I’ll still follow, but will from here on out comment with extreme caution. Yikes
What about the floor lamp? Where’s that from? Thanks!!
I think it’s beautiful and calming which is sooo important in those first months (in my humble opinion. It was for me anyway with the “pterodactyl” as we called him ;) ). I wouldn’t worry too much about what has to stay and go in terms of mobility (not all babies walk or even crawl before a year). I’ve found that, within reason, it is good to have things that I teach my son not to mess with and they do get it after a while. For example, I was so stressed out when he kept touching the electrical outlets to see my reaction until a friend told me not to react and he would move on. It was really hard but I just kept repeating no and trying to stay neutral (while eagle-eying him out of the corner of my eye!!) and he forgot all about them within two days. They seem to be a little less intense about ‘baby-proofing’ over here in France. Anyway, long-winded but I guess I’m suggesting to take it as it goes and enjoy!
I love it all, what a stylish room this will be!! I have two kids, and will heartily second having a recliner/chair in the room. I discovered this the hard way with my first one…….I ended up moving our giganto easy chair + ottoman into the room after 2 months, and practically lived in it thereafter. I am still using it for storytime with my second (now 2). At 2 am it’s great to be sitting propped up with a feeding baby in something comfortable!! ;)
Nailed it. Beautiful!
So beautiful! My favorite memory of being in the nursery with my daughter was playing on the floor after bath time every night. Great call on going with a comfortable chair. We’re about to start our 3rd version of this room – nursery, big girl room and now……tween room! I’m seriously struggling with this one. Everything she wants goes against every.single. design cell in my body :-) So happy for your family!
Love everything you’ve choosen and can’t wait to see it pulled together. Wishing I had thought of buffalo check- so masciline, even in the serene colors.
Congrats. So happy for you to be getting a little man to dote over.
Just so beautiful, Erin! I love every element! We too did a recliner/glider 5+yrs ago, and have been thankful for it. And for any readers browsing through comments, my only advice is to not skimp on the glider! You will spend HOURS in it nursing, sleeping, reading books, and possibly for multiple kids, so it’s worth it, imo, to get the most comfortable/well-constructed one you can afford! So excited for you guys – and will be waiting on pins and needles to see the finished product!!
It is lovely. However, people are just trying to help with their suggestions. While it’s great that we all have different taste and can make whatever decisions we want, we are coming from a place of experience with little ones and are simply suggesting that not all choices are safe! Why would you want to deal with “oh it should be fine…” when it comes to a bookcase?! Just not worth it to me.
Nice! But definitely not ‘baby’ wnough and seems too serious ! I say add some more whimsy and “baby” in there – they are only this little once and as a mom I’d say its nice to celebrate the baby stage in their surroundings too!
Love all of this! I am 7 months pregnant with a boy and have done a very similar nursery with Farrow and Ball wallpaper, the Jonathan Adler Sputnik, and lots of blue, gray, and white….including a big fluff y sheepskin throw rug. People said all the same things to me… “how expensive?” or “oh you will learn soon about how messy boys are” or “You really shouldn’t invest in nice stuff in your house with children”. You hit the nail on the head–each household is different. Kids don’t have to destroy your lives or your sense of style! :) Can’t wait to see the final install! OH and I used Farrow and Ball Skylight on the walls which is a great blue/gray if you need another option. :)
Love it all…so chic and sophisticated and masculine. Had to laugh at your non-mobile YEARS…just FYI…it is, in actuality, non-mobile MONTHS but if the bookcase is cleated to the wall it can stay in there indefinitely…just keep things he should not have way up high.
That was def a mis-statement on my part. :)
Simply perfection! It’s modern, peaceful, and child like all at the same time. Truly fabulous!
So pretty! Just be careful on the fuzzy rug during tummy time, my daughter often would spit up then so we would always put a little burp cloth underneath to protect our rug! No need to get rid of elements as some people are suggesting, you just find ways to protect the furniture (as well as baby) to make it safer or keep baby from ruining/breaking.
Beth, I put them straight in the washing machine with Tide, and tumble them dry. I have three boys and have washed them MANY times!!
I purchased a cheaper ($40) sheepskin at Ikea for under the baby’s face. It was just as soft (for my little man) and large enough that his whole body fit (until he was mobile) and much easier to clean than the larger one I had in the room!
Are you able to wash them right in the machine or do you use a spray and scrub? I’m having a second child and love the look of these but assumed the fuzziness would make it hard to clean
I found faux sheepskin rugs at Rosenberry Rooms. They have been puked, peed, and pooped on and wash SO well. In fact, they look better after a few washes! They are inexpensive, too.
https://www.rosenberryrooms.com/467-classic-sheepskin-pelt-rug.html#desc
Love your choices!! I have been dying over grissaille wallpaper and murals but can’t find anything online regarding price point and installation. Would you share what you found regarding price range and installation? Also interested in using Peter Dunham’s fig leaf fabric as wallpaper but do you have any experience with how well that works (using fabric in the walls) and how much cost it adds?
Lovely design. :)
Not to be a total downer, but just a thought for all those who like the elephants and lions and giraffes: the existence of all of these beautiful creatures is threatened by poaching, canned hunts and habitat loss. If you and your readers have some spare change, please consider donating to an organization dedicated to the preservation of these species. Otherwise, today’s children may not see any of these animals existing in the wild once they are older …
I just LOVE mural wallpaper and never would have thought to do it in a nursery. I can’t wait to see how it turns out! It looks like it’s going to be beautiful. :)
Can’t wait to see the big reveal. I love all the elements, thank you for sharing all the sources too. I would also love a link to the Loloi rug. I am looking for a grey rug as well! So using the wallpaper! So happy for you and Andrew!
Hi Erin,
I love your nursery plans, it looks absolutely beautiful! I don’t know if you mentioned in the comments if the Roman Shades will be cordless, but definitely something worth looking into. I invested in lovely linen Roman Shades for my boy, and realized when he transitioned out of the crib that they were no longer safe. So I had to buy new shades that were cordless, such a hassle! Would hope to save others from having to do the same. Good luck with the planning!
Caroline
Yes, I’m looking into cordless as well as continuous loop (chain hangs high, not down to floor like strings!)
Hi Erin!
I absolutely adore every single piece of this. We had a fall baby too and making a serene space for you to snuggle up with a little one thru the winter is smartest thing you could ever do.y We had some pieces that we worried about once our little guy was moving but get this- we mostly live in the rest of our home! When we are in the nursery it’s feeding or sleeping so our danger pieces are never a problem! Rock that bookcase girl! A few functional pieces that designminded mamas suggested to me to look out for when I was shooping for the in the nursery that proves to be helpful: a basket for next to your recliner for burp cloths/muslin blankets that you want a hand reach away. A pretty coaster for right next to that same recliner- you will be drinking water a LOT whether you are nursing or not! A small basket for socks, whether on a dresser or in a drawer. A laundry hamper with a truly washable liner. And perhaps one of the silliest but yet proved to be the sweetest a shadow box or keepsake box that you can pop in all the silly little things from the first year because it’s wildly unrealistic that you’ll have time to create a baby book- hospital bracelets, a shell from the first trip the beach, the sweet cards that come with flowers after the delivery, the teeny one sock your dog doesn’t eat, etc.
xoxo
Wait, didn’t you already paint this room? I thought I saw it repainted already in one of your bump shots on Instagram?
Either way, I love the design choices, look forward to seeing it completed!
No, that was my guest room (former master bedroom).
Beautiful Erin! Love all of it. People will have opinions and you are brave for putting it out there for scrutiny. Moms are tough. I have just learned to sit back and not offer anything anymore. We all kind of want to find things out on our own. Some things will work better than others but don’t let folks rob you of the joy of designing your way! Enjoy this precious time. Cheers!
LOVE!!! My son was born in February and I did a very similar soothing grey nursery. I’m NOT a designer so I’m feeling very impressed with myself right now!! ?
I had a very nice Pottery Barn upholstered rocker in my oldest son’s nursery which was pretty non-functional. It didn’t rock so well on carpet and certainly didn’t recline, although I used the heck out of it until my son was too big and wouldn’t sit with me any more (maybe 3 years?!?). This time around I KNEW that we needed to splurge on a FUNCTIONAL chair…that also reclines (ear infections and middle of the night sick babies are the worst!). We opted for a lazy boy rocker recliner that has the remote control that can adjust the chair into so many different positions. We upgraded to a softer, more baby friendly grey herringbone fabric. Not the most stylish chair to look at, but in some cases, function MUST outweigh style!! I’m loving this chair, I use it ALL THE TIME (I’m sitting in it now) and it’s going to be tough to give it up once my son outgrows rocking in the chair with me. I think my husband has secret fantasies of moving it to the basement and parking it in front of a large TV!
I’m looking forward to seeing your baby’s nursery all done!! Enjoy the journey!
So pretty! Adore the Robert Allen fabric…I’m really into buffalo print. And people honestly need to relax at a bit about the bookcase. It will be fine, your child will be fine. I’m not sure who is letting their early mobile child out of their sight for long periods where they can get into trouble. This is coming from a mom of two boys, youngest being two. Can’t wait to see the result!!!
So, so beautiful. The Jonathan Adler; sigh! Maybe in my next life!
Maybe good that you’re getting a taste of the judgement now that comes with becoming a parent, as learning to let it slide off your back is a skill I still haven’t mastered. Yes, you’ve learned it from blogging, but parenting judgement is a particular brand of hurt. One of the best pieces of advice I ever received is to never judge another mother. Obviously there are extreme exceptions but many of those even there is more than meets the eye; children and young adults who seem to be the result of no discipline/respect when in reality their parents have tried so many different things, therapy may have helped but didn’t change a personality, etc. Is there anything else in life with as much unpredictability as the child you are given?
My daughter is five now and honestly, would have been totally fine with a glass bookcase. Not because of me, but because she is just overcautious and tentative by nature, and quick to respond to a word of something’s fragility. Not that she was an easy baby by any means; her issues are just elsewhere. :) Enjoy this sanctuary!
I like you.
wise words.
Hi Erin,
Congrats on the long awaited baby boy. What a lucky boy to have such a great room.
Because everyone is sounding in our the addition of the GORGEOUS bookshelf I wanted to share a bit of my personal experience.
In college I had the privilege of caring for the two sons of a well known glass-blower. The home was “littered” with unique, custom blown glass (everything from the bathroom sinks, front porch columns, stair spindles, etc…. ) While safety was of course number one, this family felt it was extremely important for the boys to grow up in the home as is to learn to respect the items/objects and learn play around those pieces. After all glass was a HUGE part of the families life. Of course some minor adjustments were made (stair spindles were replaced with Lucite, etc…), but overall with consistent supervision and boundaries the boys learned to play in a home filled with and built from glass.
All of this to say what a beautiful design. I encourage you to stick with what works for you and your family in your home…. learn as you go and enjoy the ride.
Shea
Remember that we had a glass ceiling in your nursery and you broke thru that in 6 months and have never fallen back .
Yeah on this comment!!! As her mom, she certainly broke through our glass ceiling!!!
Hah! I like that sense of humor! I love this nursery, especially the mural wallpaper! I love your blog, Erin. We took a long time getting pregnant the first time, too, and now have a beautiful 6 year old boy (and 2 more after him!). The journey will make your motherhood all the sweeter! That Sunbrella idea for the glider is amazing.
Beautiful selections! Everything will be able to grow with your child! I have 3 children (5, 8, 11) and have never thought twice about lamps and glass in their rooms. Children can be surrounded by beauty too and don’t need plastic everywhere!
Stunning! You will spend so much time sitting in there just staring and dreaming before he comes and rocking and feeding when he’s itty! We had trouble conceiving and then a rough start with my daughter (6 months in the NICU) and when I rock her to sleep every night I still just look around the room and think about how the nursery was a labour of love and a physical expression of how excited we were to finally bring her home. So I completely understand how momentous that little room design is! Can’t wait to see the final result… room and baby ;)
It is soft, soothing, welcoming, classic, current and perfect for your sweet baby boy. I think you hit a home run for sure!! Love the giraffe, the lion is scarey to me, the cubs are cute, I agree as cute as the elephant is he matches too much, sorry little elephant, but you are still cute.
As always YOU are amazing and this room looks like a room you would design, so I know it came from your heart. Congratulations on a design well done!!!
Please post the link to the rug! Love it!
Absolutely beautiful, as expected. Those Jonathan Alder pieces are some of my favorites! As a fellow Leo, I’d definitely go with the lion print! (And I do like the warmer tones it adds to the design.)
Beautiful. I want some of the items for my room. I love the Lion (Leo here) and the Elephant. I like a room to say a baby Boy sleeps here. Same with clothes, hair, nail polish (not for boys ,ugh) but I digress. Exciting.
Can you please link to the actual rug on Loloi? Would be so helpful, thank you!
Love it! So so beautiful. And agree that the other mommy comments are unnecessary. Every kiddo/family situation is different. We never really baby-proofed in our house because generally our toddler is obedient and we also just as rule don’t leave him out of our sight for more than ~30 seconds.
I also am a fun of calm/soothing nurseries. Ours is the same, which I did for style reasons at first, but have come to like because it is also quite conducive to sleeping. We keep all his toys in the basement play room, and so his room is really just a sleeping place. It works well for us, and it means that our baby-proofing is really just focused on that basement playroom. Now once we switch him out of the crib we may need to reassess the nursery safety situation, but at almost 2 we haven’t had to do that yet.
Anyways, enjoy — this is such a fun fun time!
Your design is absolutely amazing, Erin! Obviously you should go with your great choices. Good intentions aside, moms-to-be are often inundated with unnecessary advice and judgments. It also goes without saying that no one should judge the amount you’re spending. You obviously have worked hard for your success and for this pregnancy. Enjoy that beautiful sanctuary!
Just used BM Horizon in our new master bath and, every time I walk into that room, I fall in love with it again. It is the perfect blue/gray. I think it would be lovely in a nursery.
It’s the front runner!
I feel your excitement! So wonderful.
Was just about to mention security issues with the bookshelf when I read your mention of cleating to the wall. Good.
Can’t wait to see the finished room. Sophisticated and beautiful.
I love the nursery plans! I saw your IG post with the Jonathan Adler bookcase and I knew it was going to be good! We have the same Sharon Montrose prints in my son’s nursery. We went for a grid of the smaller prints to save some money but also so I didn’t have to choose ;) The link is below. Congrats!
https://www.allthingsbigandsmallblog.com/2015/07/before-and-after-vintage-changing-table.html
I have the Sharon Montrose elephant print in my girls’ nursery and I absolutely love it. It was my big splurge and it was definitely worth it. And the girls like to put their arm in front of their face and make elephant noises, which is super cute. Love the giraffe too.
Go for Wickham Grey. I have it in my bedroom and will likely be putting it in other rooms of my house too. It is soo serene.
What a pretty calming room! And what a good excuse to buy the furniture you’re dying to have anyway(Jonathan Adler Bookcase) and then planning on moving it out for something more practical. That way you get what you really want and also have an excuse to do a little redecoration. I echo the comments on feeding, but no doubt you’ll figure things out as you go along.
PS I’d love to have that stunning mural in my big girl bedroom!
absolutely fabulous!! i wouldn’t expect anything less from you, i adore the fact that it’s not overly cutesy or childish, it’s so upscale and beautiful. i am definitely pinning this for the future!
Gorgeous! Stock up on Windex, though. :) And I had to laugh about “non-mobile years”. Try months. But hey – it’s an excuse to get a gorgeous piece you’ve always wanted!
I highly, highly recommend upholstering the glider in Sunbrella or similar outdoor fabric. Sunbrella is practically indestructible, and our swivel rocker (from Boston Interiors) still looks like new (and is crazy comfy) despite formula, spit-up, etc. being spilled on it through two kids. When our family room reno is complete, I plan to move it there since it’s such a classic style (for anyone wondering, it’s the Boston Interiors “Cooper”).
Love that you put yourself and beautiful designs out there for us everyday and people feel the need for obnoxious comments. I have 2 boys that are rough, but really the nursery is for you and Andrew. Baby boy Gates will probably be causing hell in every other room of your house. Honestly people, she’s not going to leave him alone in there. I try not to limit my decor to only 100% toddler proof items. Beautiful design!
Love this!!
Let’s all celebrate Erin and her beautiful design! Friendly mothering tips should be saved for your personal friends. Erin is obviously a responsible woman who will make a fabulous mommy!
Bravo! Agreed!
This looks amazing! We are also expecting a little boy in November – my plan for the nursery is very, very similar to yours so I feel validated that it will be fantastic ? I’m using less high end pieces (Anthro’s graisaille, gray sheepskin rug from Homegoods and simple IKEA crib) but am also in love with Sharon Montrose’s work. We are between the bear cub and wolf cubs ? I love the mix of traditional and modern.
Love your choices! It will be stunning. Make sure those are black out shades. It makes a huge difference!!
My daughter started crawling at 5 months & walking at 10. Our non-mobile time was very slim. Also, we thought we’d use the nursery to feed the baby and it would be where they would spend all their time but in reality they were wherever we were. Yes, they were in there for nap time but when it came down to it, spending all the time feeding the baby in the room felt so isolating that I ended up just feed them in the living room where everyone else was.
You never know what kind of baby you will get! So just go with it and do what works for you! Seriously, so happy for you.
I absolutely love this! I especially love the wall mural, bookcase, and chandelier. It has been so fun following you through this pregnancy and hearing how you make decisions. I’m so excited for you. :)
Alex Beard’s online gallery also sells beautiful prints that can be used in children’s rooms. I visited his gallery the last time I was in New Orleans. Check out the gorgeous elephant prints: https://www.alexbeardstudio.com/shop-artwork/fine-art-prints
I KNEW there had to be a connection!!!! :)
Yes, if you look at Alex’s bio Peter Beard is mentioned. His work is even more stunning in person. BTW, New Orleans is a great spot for a babymoon: fabulous restaurants, art galleries, antique shops to DIE for and music, oh the music.
I love that elephant one! It reminds me of an illustrated version of Peter Beard’s work- I would have assumed they were related but doesn’t look like it! Thanks for sharing!
Peter Beard is Alex Beard’s uncle. I went to high school with Alex – and yes, his work is stunning!!
Love it all! I was kind of suprised/amused when I saw your previous post debating a bold nursery vs. this. I felt this was obviously the style that would make your heart sing, especially when considering your evolving tastes (office redo, etc.). As an addict of bright colors, I would have gone bold, bold, bold. But, that’s part of the reason I love this blog — the different (but gorgeous) viewpoint!
It wouldn’t involve a baby without people foisting their opinions, would it? I will leave the budget and lucite/glass debate to others (!), but I say giraffe for the print — the warm tones, print (similar to leopard if you squint?) and wonderful geometry of their bodies are a great match with your room.
Sounds like you have considered a lot when designing the nursery of your dreams, and making the decision can be the hardest part. Congrats on everything!
Stunning, Erin!!Looking forward to seeing the final photos.
We have Wickham Grey through most of our house, including each of our three small children’s bedrooms and I have been very happy with our choice. The color reads much lighter in our home than it looks in your picture.
Enjoy nesting!
Just have to say that I’ve been living with Alaskan Husky for a couple of years now and never tire of it. Very restful and I love that the color changes with the light. Some days it’s blue, others it’s definitely gray. Lovely choices; can’t wait to see the finished room!
Good for you for going w/ your gut and designing the nursery you’ve dreamed of! My little girl’s nursery is more serene too, and almost a year later I am still in love w/ it. It almost feels like an escape when I go in there and snuggle up w/ her in the rocker. While some items aren’t completely kid-practical, you’ll figure it out and adjust as you go. You’re going to be a fantastic mom and he will thrive bc of it.
“nonmobile years” you mean months. I like your choices but can NOT imagine spending >10K on a nursery. What a strange world we live in!
Judgy much? Erin mentioned above that many of the higher end pieces in the room were gifted to her. Even if they weren’t, who cares? How she spends her money isn’t our concern. This room and its design will likely drive blog traffic, and will possibly be in her second book, so many of these decisions are business based and designed to show people the breadth of her skills. But to each his own.
And can we lay off the “friendly” mommy advice? I have two little girls, and they would have been fine with each element in this room. Each family is different, and she’ll figure it out and make adjustments as she goes. Just as we all have.
I agree as well!
I agree with you Kelly!
Such a fun post! You did such a great job making the nursery both beautiful (handsome!) and practical! I have to say wickham grey is a personal favorite and is the color of my bedroom which gets some natural light, but not a ton. I think I would love it even more if there were more light like your nursery seems to have. Perfect if you’re looking for a blue/grey color! And so jealous that you found a streamlined, stylish glider/recliner! You’re absolutely right that this is an untapped market. We went with the Luca glider (Monte Design) and although I love the look I’m kicking myself that we couldn’t find a recliner. Andrew is absolutely right in requiring a recliner for Baby Gates :) If you can get your hands on micro suede upholstery it is totally baby proof!! Can’t wait to see the final reveal! Good luck!
I LOVE the look of that glider! I just wished they made it as a recliner!!!
I think this will be absolutely beautiful. I do have to agree with the comments about the bookshelf, though. It’s gorgeous, but maybe something in lucite or a safer material? In reading over what you wrote, as long as it’s moved before the little guy becomes mobile, then I think you’re good. I think moms everywhere gave a collective shudder when seeing that, but you seem to be aware of the danger it poses. But as a word of caution, once he’s mobile and actively banging on things, this again could pose a problem wherever it’s located, but you will see that, I’m sure, with time.
It is lucite. And I may be able to get lucite shelving inserts cut to replace the glass of need be!
Hi Erin! I have two 1960’s vintage etageres secured to the walls in my kids’ room (shared) with glass shelving that I DID have to cushion with pads on the bottom shelves.
Parker is 4.5 and Avery is 1.5 and they have had these in their room since birth. They’ve never had an accident or issue, place their toys on the shelves, and I think are growing up to appreciate these beautiful pieces.
Rock the shelving… your little guy will be safe and sound and will no doubt grow up as stylish as his mommy :)
Erin – the design is simply spectacular! (and as long as you and your little one arrive home safe and happy, anything that is not perfect you can fix along the way!). I have Benjamin Moore Horizon in my house and it is my favorite of all of my painted rooms. The room is a combo of white and grey and a soft bluish green and the walls during bright sunny days almost feel like the silver lining of a cloud. On gloomy days, they have a brightness to them, and in artificial light in the evening they remain bright and look silvery grey without being washed out.
I know you didn’t ask, but I LOVE the Benjamin Moore Horizon color. Its light but still so much color. The giraffe is very gender neutral, which is nice nowadays after growing up our generation where the girls were stereotyped as light and fluffy and the boys hard and manly, haha. I really do love that lion though. SO beautiful and asymmetrical! Elephants are my favorite animals, and baby elephants have a gentleness to them. He looks like hes smiling at you.
So beautiful! Nice job, Erin. I think the miral is an AMAZING choice. Very peaceful looking, serene and warm. I can’t wait to see the final room pics.
I second the choice of Horizon. We have it as an accent in our kitchen and I think it will work so well with all of your choices. It will be a lovely room.
What a lucky little guy, this will be a beautiful space for both you and him!
Also, when he figures out that he can bang hard toys on the glass shelves and make a fun loud noise–yikes! Does ducduc make a bookshelf that might work better/safer?
I already have it so it’s staying. Down the road we will probably use something that is more of a toy storage unit. This is just for the baby nursery phase as I said.
Holly, what a fun sucker of a person you are. Not everyone will have the issues you have had with your own furniture choices/children/experiences. Erin didn’t request any direction from her readers on this, and she doesn’t write a Mommy blog. The design for her nursery is gorgeous and will flex and change as needed when her little man grows and hits new milestones. The “advice” you keep insisting on giving should come from her chosen “tribe” of other Moms she decides to consult. These warnings and “just wait” until he does this or that really is unnecessary and irritating. I’m a mother of three and nothing you’ve implied has been applicable to any of mine. New Moms should be encouraged and supported, so peace be with you. And move on. Erin, you will be fine in this and all your choices! You’ll figure out on your own what does and doesn’t work. Can’t wait to see it all come together!
Beautiful design! I did have to laugh at your “non-mobile years” comment. The floor lamp, side table, and brass & glass bookshelves will need to go by the time baby boy is crawling–which could be as early as six or seven months after birth. You could have a walker by nine or ten months. A crash landing onto glass shelf of bookcase would be a real hazard. (Mine reached out for edge of dining table, missed, landed on carved feet, and ended up with four stitches across his forehead at just ten months!)
The bookshelf we will re-asses when he’s walking, but I don’t see and issue with an acrylic side table? I also have plenty of clients who have floor laps in their nurseries with no problem. I think every household is different.
I totally agree- we’ve never had to move any furniture when our babies became mobile- you just watch them a little better! It’s not like you’re going to be leaving him solo to destroy the nursery?! People need to relax a bit! Outlets- yes- should be covered- furniture and lamps will be fine!
Love the design!!
yes. it’s a case by case basis (even kid by kid). our nyc apt and country house have barely been baby proofed and ours is walking (and climbing stairs!?) at 10 months.
so far we haven’t had a problem at all. and ultimately supervision is the key but accidents can happen at any age. a friend’s 5 yo flipped over the back of our chesterfield and barely escape faceplanting into our glass/lucite coffee table. lesson for me? kids are totally unpredictable! we all do the best we can :) you’re going to have so much fun as a mum. congrats to you both. nursery is GORGE. and consider bed sharing/night nursing- it saved me from sleep deprivation in the early months so that i wasn’t a complete zombie.
Agree that the Montrose prints are fabulous despite how ubiquitous. Love the choices.
Looks GORGEOUS – tasteful, elegant, but still age appropriate. Can’t wait to see it!
P.S. We’ve used Wickham Grey in multiple rooms of our house, and love it. I think it is the perfect soft blue/grey.
I second Wickham Grey – perfect light grey with a touch of blue.