Neutral By Nature : Designing a Gender Neutral Nursery.

In this blog post, we will explore some creative tips and ideas for creating a gender-neutral nursery that’s both beautiful and functional.

In more recent times, many parents are choosing to not find out the gender of their baby prior to birth, but are still wanting to get the nursery ready prior to their arrival. Also, gone are the days of ‘pink nurseries for girls’ and ‘blue nurseries for boys’; many parents are going for a more gender neutral approach using combinations of neutrals and other colours and patterns to create interest.

*Image Source: AI generated image via Midjourney by OBNL design.*

Colour.

Amazingly, there are a number of colours available to paint a nursery outside of pink and blue!!

Yellow, orange, green can be great statement colours, or can be toned down and paired with neutrals to create harmonious colour palettes

Or start with a base of neutrals and accessorise with pops of colour or personalised accents to allow the space to grow alongside your little one with minimal change.

Natural Textures & Fibres.

Incorporate natural materials like wood and rattan in furniture pieces and organic cotton, wool and hemp into your soft furnishings. Not only will these elements add warmth and texture to the space, but also provide a low tox environment for your little one. Think about curtains, carpet, rugs, cushions, blankets, bedding – the more natural fibres you can include, the better!

*Image Source: OBNL design via Instagram*

Functional furniture.

Choose multi-purpose furniture – a cot that can convert to a toddler bed, a chest of drawers with a change mat on top, a nursing chair which is also a comfortable space to curl up and read a book, a footstool with internal storage etc. Not only does this maximise space but it allows the space to evolve with your little one to last longer.

Storage solutions.

It’s somewhat inevitable with children that you end up with lots of toys, books and clothes. Storage baskets are a great way to easily pack away toys and soft toys, as well as books, and can be integrated into shelving/drawers etc. Regularly sorting through what no longer fits, or is played with is also a great way to keep the space clear of clutter, resulting in a more calm space.

*Image Source: Red, White & Denim via Pinterest*

Patterns and textures.

Have fun adding visual depth to your nursery by mixing up patterns and textures. Textured fabrics can bring a sense of warmth alongside blankets and cushions. Remember this is a retreat for both you and your little one- so make it cosy for you too.

Mixing and matching textures and patterns can also add visual appeal without incorporating a theme, allowing you to change things up through colour and pattern as your little one grows.

Gender neutral themes.

Themes can be fun! Firstly, who said little girls can’t have ‘construction zone’ rooms, and little boys ‘fairy forest’ themes – ok, it may go against social norms, but this is YOUR nursery – I’m all for breaking those traditional gender stereotypes. However, if you want a gender neutral theme, look more towards themes such as:

- Woodland creatures

- Celestial Wonder (galaxies and stars)

- Planes, helicopters and hot air balloons

- Under the sea

- Animal Safari

- Adventure and Exploration (Maps, vintage travel documents etc)

- Whimsical wonderland (dragons and unicorns etc)

- Disney Favourites

- Winnie the Pooh

There are so many options when it comes to creating a gender neutral nursery, but I hope the above tips and ideas have inspired you. By incorporating some of these into your design you are sure to create a beautiful and functional space which celebrates individuality and will provide a special space for your little one to both grow and thrive in.

Currently taking bookings for June – If youre ready to transform your space, please get in touch!