15 Ways to Bring Both Style and Colour into Your Nursery

Create a Beautiful, Functional Space That Reflects Your Family’s Personality

Designing your baby’s nursery is one of the most exciting parts of preparing for your little one’s arrival. It’s a chance to create a space that’s both beautiful and functional – a room where your baby will sleep, play, and grow during those precious early years. The challenge many parents face is finding the perfect balance between style and practicality while incorporating colour in a way that feels fresh, not overwhelming.

Gone are the days when nurseries had to be limited to pastel pink or blue. Today’s nursery design embraces bold colours, mixed patterns, and sophisticated styling that appeals to both children and adults. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant rainbow hues, calming earth tones, or classic primary colours, there are countless ways to infuse personality into your baby’s space.

Why Colour Matters in Nursery Design

Before diving into specific design ideas, it’s important to understand how colour impacts both you and your baby. Research shows that colour can influence mood, sleep patterns, and even cognitive development. Soft, muted tones tend to promote relaxation and better sleep, while brighter colours can stimulate creativity and playfulness during awake times.

The key is finding the right balance. A well-designed nursery incorporates both calming and stimulating elements, allowing you to create different zones within the room for different activities.

1. Start with a Stylish Storage Foundation

Classic Storage Bins with Character

One of the easiest ways to add both function and flair to your nursery is through decorative storage solutions. Look for bins, baskets, and containers that serve a dual purpose – keeping toys, books, and supplies organized while adding visual interest to the room.

Consider these storage options:

Woven baskets in natural fibres with coloured trim or handles
Canvas bins with fun patterns or bold solid colours
Wooden crates painted in your nursery’s accent colours
Vintage suitcases stacked for both storage and visual height
Fabric storage cubes that can double as extra seating

Pro Tip: Choose storage containers in colours that complement your overall palette. If your walls are neutral, this is a perfect opportunity to introduce pops of colour through functional pieces.

2. Create a Feature Wall with Removable Wallpaper

Removable wallpaper has revolutionized nursery design, allowing parents to create stunning focal points without the commitment of traditional wallpaper. Choose one wall – typically behind the crib or changing area – to showcase a bold pattern or colour.

Popular removable wallpaper options for nurseries include:

Geometric patterns in soft pastels
Nature-inspired designs with animals or trees
Abstract shapes in rainbow colours
Classic stripes or polka dots in fresh colour combinations

Safety Note: Always ensure wallpaper is non-toxic and specifically designed for children’s spaces.

3. Layer Textiles for Comfort and Visual Interest

Textiles are your secret weapon for adding colour and texture without overwhelming the space. Layer different fabrics throughout the room to create depth and visual interest.

Essential textile elements:

Area rugs that define the play space and add warmth
Curtains in patterns or colours that complement your theme
Throw pillows on a nursing chair or reading nook
Blankets draped over furniture or stored in baskets
Wall tapestries or fabric art pieces

Choose fabrics in varying textures – smooth cotton, nubby linen, soft wool – to create a rich, layered look that’s both sophisticated and child-friendly.

4. Incorporate Art at Every Level

Art doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate to make a big impact in your nursery. Create a gallery wall that grows with your child, incorporating pieces at different heights so they can enjoy the artwork as they develop.

Art ideas for colourful nurseries:

Framed prints in coordinating colours
Canvas paintings with simple, bold designs
Wall decals that can be easily changed as your child grows
Floating shelves displaying small sculptures or collectibles
DIY art projects using your child’s handprints or footprints (add these over time)

5. Choose Furniture with Personality

While cribs and changing tables are necessities, that doesn’t mean they have to be boring. Look for furniture pieces that incorporate colour or interesting design details.

Furniture options to consider:

Painted cribs in soft, non-toxic colours
Accent chairs in bold fabrics for nursing or reading
Coloured dressers that can transition to a child’s room later
Unique lighting fixtures like colourful pendant lights or fun table lamps
Decorative bookshelf in an unexpected colour

6. Maximize Natural Light and Views

Natural light makes any colour palette look better and creates a healthier environment for your baby. Maximize the light in your nursery while maintaining privacy and light control for nap times.

Window treatment strategies:

Install blackout curtains in colours that complement your décor
Add sheer panels for daytime privacy while maintaining light
Consider window film with subtle patterns for added privacy
Use adjustable blinds in colours other than standard white or beige

7. Create Zones with Colour Coding

Even in a small nursery, you can create distinct areas for different activities using colour as a guide. This approach helps organize the space visually and functionally.

Zone ideas:

Sleep zone: Calming blues, greens, or soft purples around the crib
Play area: Brighter colours like yellows, oranges, or reds
Reading nook: Warm, cozy colours like soft pinks or peaches
Changing station: Fresh, clean colours like whites or pale greens

8. Add Plants for Natural Beauty

Plants bring life, colour, and improved air quality to any nursery. Choose child-safe varieties and place them out of reach of curious little hands.

Nursery-friendly plants:

Spider plants for their interesting texture and easy care
Rubber plants for bold, glossy green leaves
Pothos in hanging planters for trailing greenery
Snake plants for their architectural shape and low maintenance
Succulents in colourful pots for small spaces

9. Incorporate Personal Collections

Display items that have special meaning to your family while adding colour and personality to the nursery. This approach makes the room feel more personal and less “showroom perfect.”

Collection ideas:

Vintage children’s books with colourful spines
Handmade toys from local artisans
Family photos in colourful frames
Travel souvenirs from places you’ve visited
Heirloom pieces that tell your family’s story

10. Use Ceiling Space Creatively

Don’t forget about the “fifth wall” in your nursery design. The ceiling offers opportunities for colour and visual interest that many parents overlook.

Ceiling enhancement options:

Paint in a soft, complementary colour
Wall decals or removable stickers
Hanging mobiles in coordinating colours
String lights for a magical atmosphere
Fabric canopies over the crib or reading area

11. Choose Multi-Functional Lighting

Lighting in a nursery needs to serve multiple purposes – bright enough for diaper changes, dim enough for nighttime feedings, and warm enough to create a cozy atmosphere. Use this necessity as an opportunity to add colour and style.

Lighting solutions:

Table lamps with colourful bases or shades
Floor lamps that provide ambient lighting
Night lights in fun shapes or colours
String lights for decorative ambiance
Dimmer switches to adjust light levels throughout the day

12. Incorporate Sensory Elements

Babies learn through their senses, so incorporate elements that provide visual stimulation while adding colour to your nursery design.

Sensory design elements:

Mirrors at baby’s eye level for visual development
Textured wall hangings for tactile exploration
Wind chimes or sound makers (placed safely out of reach)
Prisms or crystal decorations that cast rainbow patterns
Black and white patterns mixed with colours for visual contrast

13. Plan for Growth and Change

The most successful nursery designs are those that can evolve as your child grows. Choose elements that can be easily updated or modified over time.

Adaptable design strategies:

Use neutral furniture with colourful accessories that can be changed
Choose removable wall treatments that can be updated
Select storage solutions that work for different age groups
Invest in quality pieces that can transition to a big-kid room
Create flexible layouts that can be reconfigured as needs change

14. Safety First, Style Second

While creating a beautiful nursery is important, safety must always be the top priority. Ensure all your colourful additions meet current safety standards.

Safety considerations:

Secure all furniture to walls to prevent tipping
Choose non-toxic paints and finishes
Avoid small decorative items that could pose choking hazards
Ensure proper ventilation if using scented elements
Check that all electrical items are properly installed and childproofed

15. Add Personal Touches That Tell Your Story

The most meaningful nurseries are those that reflect the unique personality and values of the family. Don’t be afraid to incorporate elements that might not be “typical” nursery décor if they have special significance to you.

Personal touch ideas:

Commission custom artwork from local artists
Display meaningful quotes or song lyrics
Incorporate cultural elements that reflect your heritage
Create a time capsule corner with items from your pregnancy
Include handmade items from friends and family

Creating Your Colourful Nursery: A Step-by-Step Approach

Week 1-2: Planning and Inspiration

Gather inspiration from magazines, Pinterest, and social media
Determine your budget and timeline
Measure your space and note any architectural features
Choose your colour palette (limit to 3-4 main colours)

Week 3-4: Major Purchases

Order furniture and any custom pieces
Purchase paint and major textile items
Book any professional services (electrician, painter)

Week 5-6: Installation and Setup

Paint walls and install any wallpaper
Set up furniture and major pieces
Install lighting and electrical elements

Week 7-8: Styling and Details

Add textiles, artwork, and decorative elements
Organize storage areas
Add plants and personal touches
Take photos and enjoy your beautiful space!

Maintenance and Evolution

A beautiful nursery requires ongoing care and attention. Plan for regular updates and maintenance to keep the space looking fresh and functioning well.

Monthly maintenance tasks:

Dust all surfaces and vacuum textiles
Reorganize storage areas
Check for any safety hazards
Update seasonal elements

Quarterly updates:

Rotate artwork or decorative elements
Assess storage needs and reorganize as necessary
Deep clean all textiles
Evaluate what’s working and what needs adjustment

Conclusion: Your Family’s Unique Space

Creating a stylish, colourful nursery is about more than just following design trends – it’s about crafting a space that reflects your family’s personality while providing a safe, nurturing environment for your baby. Remember that the best nursery is one that makes you happy every time you walk into it.

Don’t feel pressured to complete everything perfectly before your baby arrives. Some of the most beautiful nurseries evolve over time, with parents adding elements and making adjustments as they discover what works best for their family’s lifestyle.

Whether you choose bold, bright colours or soft, muted tones, the key is creating a space that feels authentic to your family. Trust your instincts, prioritize safety and functionality, and don’t be afraid to experiment with colour and style. Your baby’s nursery should be a reflection of the love and excitement you feel as you prepare to welcome your little one home.

The storage bin that inspired this article – with its perfect blend of function and style – represents exactly what every nursery element should strive to be: beautiful, practical, and meaningful. As you design your own space, look for pieces that serve multiple purposes and bring joy to your daily routines. After all, you’ll be spending countless hours in this room, and it should be a space that nurtures both you and your baby.