A huge congratulations to Kate and Wills for having the most gorgeous little baby girl yesterday. I wouldn't say I was a massive royalist but there is something about it that's really special. Although perhaps its just special when any baby is born and because they are our royal family she feels a little part of us too so we want to share the joy.
It does make me wonder what fabulous nursery the little princess went home to yesterday afternoon - have they gone pink or kept things more neutral? Will everything be brand new, or will it be filled with incredible heirlooms passed down in history? I don't suppose we'll ever know but I have had a little think about furniture for kids and babies and what to consider when you start investing so have a little read on if you are expecting a little prince or princess soon too.
You can also find some more nursery inspiration
here.
1. Buy what you need, make it what you want
Having a baby is expensive so have a look for things that you can afford but which you could personalise and turn into exactly what you want. For example, old pine chest of drawers picked up cheaply in junk and antique shops will look gorgeous in a nursery or kids bedroom with a lick of chalky eggshell paint. Same goes for untreated wood finishes which more and more companies are doing now.
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| The Tarva range at Ikea is perfect for solid wood furniture you can make your own and its great value |
2. Storage storage storage
As kids get bigger, so does their stuff and their need for places to put it. Therefore storage is absolutely key in any bedroom and needs to be considered from the get go. Storage boxes, shelving and extra space under beds and in seating is going to be key when planning any room.
Homebase have a great selection of furniture with clever storage inbuilt which is worth exploring.
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| I just love these felt storage baskets, just £3.99 for 2 from Homebase |
3. Furniture which will grown with them
Think about the future when you buy anything. Some things won't be useful down the line such as the cot, but pretty much everything else will. Would a bed with a built-in sofa or study area underneath work best for the space you have or will storage need to be factored in? Also think about the style, going for classic shapes and materials so it is less likely to date. I always prefer hardwood with a lick of paint which can be transformed to fit the room its in.
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| This bed isn't too high so its great for younger kids but also allows for storage space underneath. The painted grey looks great too, but if you ever fancy a change its easy to do |
4. Avoid themes
Kids rooms should be fun and playful but for me, I would always avoid going to heavy on a theme. You will end up getting tired of it really quickly and when you do change it, it will be expensive, having to replace bed sheets, rugs, accessories, furniture etc. The room should reflect your style and the style of your home, and as the children get older they can start to add their own personality and character to it. Buy bright colours but in grown up, fun patterns which you love but won't date too quickly and they won't grow out of. Walk away from the racing car shaped bed now...
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| This feels so youthful and fun whilst still grown up and not at all gimmicky |
5. Be safe
As with any nursery or child's bedroom, you need to be careful when selecting any furniture to ensure it is safe to be around for little ones. No sharp corners, small pieces which are easily pulled off and precariously positioned objects which could easily fall from a height. Most kids furniture will already have this covered, but if you are renovating old pieces for the room just keep it in mind.
Hope that's useful. Do you have any other tips which would help those starting out with decorating a little one's room?
H x
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