This Bryn Mawr Couple Created a Nursery That They (and Their Child!) Would Love

NSYNC alum Lance Bass and actor Michael Turchin sought the expertise of Decorist designer Max Humphrey to create a functional and stylish nursery for their twins, Violet and Alexander. The couple prioritized functionality due to the room's size, desiring a design that allowed for smooth flow within the space. Humphrey integrated various hues and textures, resulting in a gender-neutral aesthetic that suited their preferences. The design process began with Bass and Turchin providing inspirational images, characterized by their eclectic style. Humphrey drew inspiration from a specific jean-jacket print wallpaper, which he personally designed, making it a focal point of the room. The wallpaper, available in multiple colorways, was chosen for its whimsical character and inclusion of both pink and blue tones, appealing to the couple for its gender-neutral versatility. To complement the vibrant wallpaper, Humphrey painted the remaining walls in Farrow & Ball's Parma Gray. This color choice was deliberate, aiming for a shade that could mature with the twins and avoid a juvenile appearance. Additionally, the designer appreciated how the Parma Gray subtly shifted in appearance depending on the natural light throughout the day, adding dynamic quality to the room. The nursery's essential items included a Hatch changing table, VTech cameras, and a Nursery Works rocking chair, all deemed non-negotiable by the couple. A key request from Bass and Turchin was for cribs with a distinctive shape, deviating from standard designs. They found oval cribs at Buybuy Baby, which immediately met their criteria. Humphrey collaborated with Buybuy Baby to furnish the nursery, selecting various products from the San Francisco-based retailer. These selections included a Safavieh sheepskin rug, an Ubbi diaper pail, a Taylor Madison Designs elephant hamper, and Stokke fitted sheets. Humphrey consciously incorporated neutral pieces, such as the rocking chair, to ensure the room maintained a balanced aesthetic and avoided an overly cluttered or "cuckoo" feel. Despite construction delays caused by the pandemic, the nursery was completed shortly after the twins' birth. Turchin noted that once the construction was finished, the room was immediately furnished and decorated, with all elements seamlessly coming together. #NurseryDesign #CelebrityHomes #InteriorDesign #GenderNeutralNursery #HomeDecor #MaxHumphrey #LanceBass #MichaelTurchin #RoomIdeas

Interior designer Evans Geisler and her architect husband undertook a significant renovation of their two-story Williamsburg row house, transforming it from a dual-unit bachelor pad into a single-family home tailored for a family with three young sons. The couple purchased the house in 2014 from Geisler’s brother, who had acquired it in 2007. The initial state of the house was characterized by two separate units: one on the ground floor occupied by Geisler's brother's college roommate, and the second floor where her brother resided. The primary goal of the renovation was to consolidate these into a cohesive single-family residence, while also incorporating a small pied-à-terre apartment at the back of the second floor. Geisler described the house's original aesthetic as typical of two young men living in Williamsburg, lacking architectural personality and requiring a comprehensive update. The row houses in Williamsburg are often narrow and basic, prompting Geisler's initial improvement to be the removal of the entryway hallway, which she believed contributed to a sense of confinement. On the main floor, the design strategy focused on creating an open-plan layout by removing as many interior walls as possible, integrating the kitchen and living room into a single fluid space. A key element of this transformation was the restoration of the original staircase, which, along with a newly installed built-in bookcase, became prominent focal points upon entering the home. The original staircase, deemed the only element possessing inherent character, underwent extensive restoration. Layers of paint were meticulously stripped from the newel post, missing balusters were replaced, and the treads and handrail were stained dark, contrasting with white-painted balusters. In the kitchen, the design incorporated Caesarstone countertops and Ikea cabinets, complemented by open shelving. Geisler highlighted her preference for open shelving in the kitchen, noting that maintaining a coordinated look with white, off-white, and wood elements facilitated a clean and harmonious aesthetic. The renovation also extended to the rear of the first floor, where the bathroom was enlarged. A playroom was created in this area, featuring a Murphy bed for accommodating guests and a built-in desk designed for homework, catering to the needs of a growing family. Upstairs, new walls were constructed to define two bedrooms and to functionally separate the aforementioned rear apartment from the main living quarters of the house. Geisler's overarching design philosophy for the home was to create a casual and highly kid-friendly environment, given that she had a toddler and was pregnant during the renovation. This involved avoiding overly fussy or expensive elements and implementing organizational systems to mitigate clutter and manage the daily demands of family life. All three sons share a single bedroom, which is equipped with a crib and custom bunk beds. Geisler acknowledged that some might find this arrangement unconventional but noted its general effectiveness, particularly in fostering interaction among the boys. The interior walls throughout the house were uniformly painted in Benjamin Moore's Chalk White, and the floors were stained to the darkest possible shade. Geisler emphasized the importance of a cohesive design throughout the entire house, asserting that a consistent aesthetic facilitates a smooth transition between rooms and contributes to a unified overall impression. #WilliamsburgRenovation #InteriorDesign #KidFriendlyHome #OpenPlanLiving #StaircaseRestoration #KitchenDesign #CustomBunkBeds #FamilyHome #BrooklynDesign

This article showcases three unique baby nursery designs by New Jersey-based designers, offering inspiration for parents planning their child's first bedroom. Each design reflects different aesthetic preferences and functional considerations, from minimalist boho-chic to whimsical and space-saving solutions. Blanche Garcia, an ASID designer from Little Falls, created a "Coming Up Roses" nursery in Livingston for a baby girl. Embracing a minimalist and boho-chic aesthetic, Garcia utilized a neutral color palette, organic textures, and eco-friendly features. The design prominently features a Ro Sham Beaux chandelier that casts a starburst-like reflection with its white rock and blush beads, accentuating the high ceiling. Jonathan Adler wallpaper with a graphic pattern and golden gilding anchors the crib area, providing a modern yet warm ambiance. The room includes a custom felt mobile by Kristin Okada, a soft and maintainable 212 Modern rocker, and an Anthropologie area rug designed to hide stains. Environmental touches are incorporated through terrarium wall art by Kim Fisher Designs, featuring air-purifying succulents. A half-moon paper mâché light fixture from Pottery Barn Kids adds textural interest, and a personalized Manny & Simon wooden doll pram completes the look. Garcia's pro tip emphasizes the effectiveness of an accent wall for anchoring a space. Karla Trincanello, ASID, from Florham Park, designed a "Twice as Nice!" nursery for twin girls in a Morristown show house. This design is characterized by its enchanting vision of cherubs, fairies, and butterflies, set against a backdrop of dreamy pastels. Soft aqua walls are complemented by creamy white trim, with pink and purple accents. The room features elegant canopies and draperies in cream and blue, creating a soothing atmosphere. All fabrics for drapery and furniture were selected for their easy-wash and stain-resistant properties, balancing luxury with practicality. Two alcoves house the cribs, each adorned with princess canopies in sheer fabric and lined with a butterfly pattern against a hand-painted diamond wall design. A plush daybed centrally located offers a comfortable spot for parents. Gliders by a bay window provide a charming area for cuddling, and matching changing tables flank a feminine armoire for storage and display. A children's tea table set for play and cherub figures atop a refinished fireplace contribute to the whimsical theme. Trincanello's pro tip advises planning for age-appropriate transitional changes in the nursery's themes and furnishings. Nicky Rae Titus, ASID, designed a "Moody Blues" nursery for a baby boy in Englishtown, transforming a snug 120-square-foot space into a homey and playful haven. Titus utilized software to optimize the layout for essential furniture while ensuring ample movement space. The room's playful and nature-inspired theme is evident in the wallpaper, which features fluffy blue trees, and the complementary soft sky paint color on the walls and closet doors. A light green area rug completes the look, creating a spacious and free-flowing feel despite the room's compact size. The parents expressed feeling transported to "another world" in the room and have commissioned Titus for a similar design in their son's playroom. The nursery includes a comfortable linen chair and ottoman with a small, circular side table and lamp for convenience. A neat closet helps keep the space tidy, allowing a compact bookshelf to display decor and books. A dual-purpose changing station/dresser adds visual interest, textural layers, and additional storage. Titus's pro tip highlights the importance of choosing items parents love and that suit their needs, recommending investment in a super-comfy chair for late nights. #BabyNursery #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #NewJerseyDesigners #NurseryInspiration #MinimalistNursery #WhimsicalNursery #SpaceSavingDesign

Patrick and Brittany Mahomes collaborated with Crate & Kids to design a nursery for their daughter, Golden Raye, focusing on a balance between parental taste and childish whimsy. The design incorporates a color palette of baby pink, white, and gold, with gold sunburst wallpaper and personalized monogram accents inspired by Golden Raye's name. Gray rugs and off-white furnishings provide a grounding element to the room's more playful aspects. Brittany Mahomes highlighted the importance of comfort and functionality in the nursery, particularly praising the Sherpa swivel chair and matching ottoman. The chair's design, including a footrest and high back, accommodates both Patrick and Brittany. The crib, a whitewashed ash wood convertible model, offers a feminine and cozy aesthetic that can adapt as the child grows, converting into a toddler bed with an additional rail. Monograms of Golden Raye's name appear on both the walls and her baby blanket, adding a unique touch. The nursery also features a sophisticated yet playful ambiance through a large art print and a small gallery wall. This approach suggests integrating framed children's artwork for a balanced display. Practical elements include uniquely decorated vignettes with books and toys that serve as both decor and entertainment. Vertical shelving and decorative hooks are used for organization, keeping items off the floor while contributing to the room's stylized appearance. Additional items like a bassinet further enhance the space's functionality and aesthetic. The overall design emphasizes adult comfort, elevated decor, and personalization, ensuring the nursery's longevity and adaptability as the family grows. This design philosophy suggests that decorating for children can follow similar principles as decorating for adults, prioritizing personalization and thoughtful details. The article includes several product recommendations from Crate & Kids used in the Mahomes' nursery, such as the Nessa Light Brown Sherpa Nursery Swivel Glider with Silver Base, the Nessa Light Brown Sherpa Nursery Gliding Ottoman with Silver Base, the Archie Whitewashed Ash Wood Convertible Baby Crib, and the Babyletto x Gathre Capsule Ivory Baby Bassinet. Each product is described with its features and how it contributes to the nursery's design and functionality. #NurseryDesign #CelebrityHomes #KidsRoomIdeas #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #CrateAndKids #PersonalizedSpace #ChildFriendlyDesign #FunctionalFurniture

This article details a nursery makeover project led by Sassy Mama, aimed at helping expectant parents design a functional and aesthetically pleasing space for their baby. The project involved a collaboration with several Singapore-based brands and an interior design expert, Melisa White, who specializes in children's spaces. The focus was on creating a serene, playful, and stylish nursery that could evolve with the child's age, incorporating elements that would remain relevant from infancy through teenage years. The design process began with understanding the expectant mother's style preferences, which included a love for bold colors. Melisa White proposed adding metallic, botanical, and organic elements to enhance the room's coziness. The chosen color palette featured soft florals, gold accents, and muted hues to create a dramatic yet cohesive and harmonious look. The key was to make a statement while maintaining a calm and restful environment for the baby. One of the primary design elements was the wallpaper from Wall Catalog, which featured a Scandinavian floral print in muted yellows, greens, pinks, and blues. This bold print was intended to make a significant impression while being soft enough for a nursery. The large-scale floral and foliage pattern set the room's tone, with other walls kept neutral to balance the design. The choice of a versatile print ensures that the room can transition from a baby's nursery to a teenager's space. For furniture, the FLEXA Play Baby Cot was selected for its versatility, converting from a baby cot to a toddler bed, suitable for ages 0-3 years. The cot's rounded organic details and wooden legs complemented the room's other wooden elements. FLEXA, a Danish brand, is known for its high-quality, contemporary Scandinavian designs that prioritize safety and a stimulating environment, offering long-lasting materials for their cots. The nursing chair and side table from Mulamu were chosen to complement the wallpaper and serve as accent pieces. The modern lounge chair, upholstered in 'Golden Rod' fabric, was selected for its comfort, ease of cleaning, and stylish appearance, adding a pop of color and balancing the room. Melisa emphasized selecting a nursing chair that could serve multiple purposes as the child grows, such as reading or studying. The solid round side table, also from Mulamu, was highlighted for its stability and versatility. Kids Haven provided a floating bookshelf, soft toys, and a handcrafted bunny print. The bookshelf was designed to be low enough for a toddler to access, mounted off the floor to create an illusion of space, and safe from tipping. The handcrafted bunny print and crocheted bunny and deer soft toys added charming decorative touches. Kids Haven is noted as Singapore's largest children's furniture store, offering a wide range of products from beds to decorative knick-knacks. To complete the room, a handmade jute rug from Ruby Slipper was chosen for its natural fibers, durability, and ability to anchor the space. The rug's soft strands of gold metallic thread added texture and visual interest. Ruby Slipper is known for its custom, handmade rugs, which also support local artisans in rural India. Samantha Ong of Girl in Paperland created a custom-made, personalized keepsake print with a framed quote, designed to coordinate perfectly with the nursery's theme and wooden elements. Cuckoo Little Lifestyle Store supplied various small decorative items, including a floral cushion, a bohemian birdcage, sculptured metallic 'LOVE' wall art, a hanging toy swing, building blocks, a soft padded quilt, and folding crates for storage. These items contributed to the room's boho-chic aesthetic and practical organization. Finally, NODUMS BARCELONA, found at AC Collective, created a personalized Singapore Skyline artwork. This modern and sophisticated piece added a local touch without being overly kitsch, fitting handsomely into the room's overall design. The AC Collective is described as a multi-label boutique featuring creative designers. The comprehensive makeover transformed the room into a beautiful and functional nursery, demonstrating how strategic design choices and collaborations can create an inspiring space for both parents and children. #NurseryDecor #BabyRoom #InteriorDesign #HomeMakeover #SingaporeDesign #ChildrensFurniture #WallpaperDesign #ScandinavianStyle

This article showcases ten exceptional nursery designs from Restoration Hardware Baby & Child's latest Spring collection, highlighting spaces that transcend basic functionality to offer sophisticated and imaginative environments for infants. The featured nurseries span a range of styles, from glamorous and chic to traditional and whimsical, each carefully curated with high-end furniture and decorative elements. The first nursery is a soft, glamorous space for a baby girl, featuring the Vienne Crib with mirrored sides and a Soho Crystal Chandelier, creating an elegant and light-filled atmosphere. Following this, a Chic Parisienne Nursery is presented, characterized by the French Script Grand Wall Canvas Tapestry, which adds an eclectic yet eye-catching focal point. Another design, titled 'Up, Up, and Away,' centers around a whitewashed aesthetic, where a Hot Air Balloon Crystal Pendant serves as a whimsical and uplifting element. For a truly regal touch, a 'Room Fit For Royalty' is detailed, showcasing a Gilt Canopy Bed Crown and an Adelaide Armoire, designed to create a special space for a baby girl. A sophisticated, old-world space suitable for either a boy or girl features a Vintage Wooden Carousel Horse and 18th-century English sheet music as decorative elements, introducing maturity and historical charm. A posh, neutral nursery is inspired by Louis XV antiques, featuring the upholstered Colette Crib, offering a sumptuous and versatile design. The article also presents a temptingly traditional gender-neutral nursery, defined by the French Directoire style Jourdan Crib and its coordinating Armoire, providing both structure and softness. A 'gentle jungle' themed nursery incorporates Papier-Mâché Animal Heads and a distressed wood Etienne Chandelier, striking a balance between chic design and child-friendliness. A 'Whale's Tale' nursery uses a Scientific Whale Tapestry as a statement art piece, complementing the curves of a Roll Arm Rocker. Finally, the 'Star Is Born' nursery channels a refined Old Hollywood aesthetic with the Belle Upholstered Crib in Antique Grey Mist and an 18th-century Venetian Cut-Glass Mirror. Each nursery design is presented with specific product mentions and their respective price points, offering readers a glimpse into the luxurious options available from Restoration Hardware Baby & Child. The article emphasizes the brand's ability to create nurseries that are not merely functional but also visually stunning and unique, catering to parents seeking elevated and distinctive environments for their children. #NurseryDesign #BabyRoomDecor #RestorationHardwareBabyAndChild #LuxuryNursery #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ChildRoomDesign #GlamNursery #GenderNeutralNursery

Ben Stern, a child psychotherapist and pottery enthusiast, purchased his 1901 Gowanus home in Brooklyn around the time he started dating Sophie Anderson-Stern, a multidisciplinary artist and tattooist. Stern deliberately left the house sparse for over a year, refraining from significant decorating or furniture purchases, anticipating Sophie's potential move-in and her influence on the interior design. If left to his own preferences, Ben admits the house would have leaned heavily towards mid-century modern aesthetics. However, with Sophie's artistic vision, the home transformed into a vibrant space infused with color and personality. During the initial phase of the renovation, Ben engaged MR Architecture + Decor for a comprehensive remodel. The firm converted the three-unit structure into a single-family home. A faulty rear addition was removed and replaced with two levels of terraces, featuring glass windows and doors. The architectural team installed a high-velocity HVAC system that utilizes flexible hoses, a less bulky alternative to traditional ducts, and opted for conventional electrical rocker switches over complex smart home systems, emphasizing simplicity in design. Many of the home's original details had been lost over time. To reintroduce character, MR Architecture + Decor meticulously replicated the sole surviving newel post on every floor. The original joists in the den were revitalized through wire brushing, and a set of old pocket doors found a new purpose as a unique headboard in the primary bedroom. Sophie further personalized this headboard by layering a small rug, aiming to seamlessly merge their individual styles. A shared design preference for the couple is the color green, which prominently features throughout their home. In the kitchen, they selected Benjamin Moore's Sage Mountain, a gray-green shade for the cabinets, a color they admired so much that they extended its use to their front door. The kitchen's layout was meticulously planned to accommodate two people working simultaneously without obstruction, featuring two sinks and ample counter space. A load-bearing wall was removed to create an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area, with two supporting columns discreetly integrated, one of which cuts through the kitchen island, almost imperceptibly. The kitchen also boasts a cold-rolled steel casement window system that offers views of and access to the garden, complete with an outdoor bar counter for entertaining. Incorporating family-made pieces was another key aspect of their decorating. Ben's brother, a woodworker specializing in guitars, crafted a custom long oval dining table from curly maple for the couple. As they prepared for their first baby, Sophie infused the nursery with elements of her half-Korean heritage, such as a norigae hanging for good luck and artwork inspired by Seoul's temple architecture. She intentionally created all the art for the nursery, with one exception by artist Ashley Brown Duran. She also sourced a vintage Danish rocker and adorned the Pinch pendant light, identical to the one in their bedroom, with paper butterflies and moths for a whimsical touch. The nursery walls are painted in Spotswood Teal by Benjamin Moore. Initially, after bringing their newborn home, the couple spent nights in the den on the couch. Now that a routine has been established, the den serves as a space for entertaining and gardening. A stained walnut millwork bar provides a station for cocktails or for arranging fresh flowers from the garden. Sophie, whose tattoo work often features botanicals, cultivated heirloom chrysanthemums during the pandemic, and gardening has become a significant annual focus for her. The landscape design was a collaborative effort between James Stephenson/The Artist Garden and Sophie Anderson-Stern. #HomeTour #BrooklynHome #InteriorDesign #Renovation #NurseryDesign #GreenInteriors #SustainableDesign #DIYHomeDecor #FamilyDecor

This article highlights Kathryn Humphries's approach to designing her 10-month-old daughter Annie's nursery, which doubles as a guest bedroom, in her 1930s Houston home. Humphries, co-founder of All You Need Method, aimed to create a "lived-in feeling" by incorporating British design elements and cherished vintage pieces. Her design philosophy emphasizes honoring items that have been passed down, a core aspect of British interiors. The nursery features a blend of antique and British-inspired decor. Walls are adorned with coordinating blue and red wallpaper by Norfolk-based illustrator Polly Fern, complementing hardware and jumbo check fabric on bench cushions by British designer Beata Heuman. The room also includes personal touches, such as a sunny yellow armchair inherited from Humphries’s grandmother and small mementos from her time in New York City. This eclectic mix contributes to the room's unique character, creating a space that feels distinctly non-Texan. A significant design challenge was the lack of storage in the 1930s-era house. Humphries addressed this by designing a custom floor-to-ceiling wardrobe system. She incorporated seating nooks, a feature she had long admired, and her husband's family, who are in construction, built the structure. The closet doors were enhanced with cane detailing, subtly influenced by Matilda Goad's London home, adding a touch of sophisticated texture. The main closets are organized to hold Annie’s hanging clothes, with a dedicated section for coats and toiletries, and higher cabinets for clothes she will grow into. Humphries demonstrates a practical and sentimental approach to furnishing the nursery. Instead of a traditional changing table, she repurposed a dresser from her own childhood bedroom, which came as part of a set with nightstands and a mirror. The crib, a DaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 model, was an affordable choice at $230, proving that a thoughtful design does not always require high-cost investments. A mushroom garland, originally a holiday decoration, was kept because Annie enjoys looking at and playing with it, adding a playful and personal touch to the vanity area. The room's dual functionality as a guest bedroom is seamlessly integrated. The full-size bed remains a central feature, allowing friends and family to stay comfortably. When guests arrive, Humphries easily converts the space by setting up a pack-and-play for Annie, removing the changing pad from the dresser, and placing a water decanter on the nightstand. This demonstrates a flexible and adaptable design strategy, ensuring the room serves multiple purposes without compromising its aesthetic or practical use for either a child or an adult guest. #NurseryDesign #BritishInteriors #KidsRooms #GuestBedroom #VintageDecor #StorageSolutions #DualPurposeRoom #HomeRenovation

Designer Leanne Ford assisted her brother, Steve Ford, and his wife, Andrea, in creating a nursery for their first child, Jack, within their 7,000-square-foot warehouse home in downtown Pittsburgh. Steve Ford had initially converted the industrial space into his residence in 2019, which later accommodated Andrea. The arrival of a baby necessitated a strategic redesign to incorporate a functional and comfortable nursery without relocating. Leanne Ford, known for her work on 'Restored by the Fords' and her design aesthetic, took on the task of transforming a former dining room/dance floor area into a 300-square-foot nursery. The chosen location for the nursery was previously an open area adjacent to an old garage door. Steve Ford undertook the construction, building a new room with double doors and a curved wall. Leanne Ford was then responsible for decorating this windowless space. Her design approach integrated elements from her Crate & Kids line, which had recently been released, featuring whitewashed woods and black accents. This style complemented the existing industrial character of the warehouse home, ensuring the nursery felt like a natural extension rather than a separate, incongruous addition. Steve and Andrea appreciated that the design seamlessly blended with their established home aesthetic. The absence of natural light in the nursery, while initially a potential challenge, proved to be advantageous for a newborn's sleep schedule. To prevent the space from feeling enclosed or dark, Leanne implemented several design strategies. She installed extra-long linen curtains from Etsy on slinky wires in front of the old garage door, which helped to soften the industrial backdrop. Layering rugs on the concrete floors added warmth and texture, making the room more inviting. Despite the 12-foot ceilings, the combination of carefully selected furniture, playful artwork, and varied textures on the walls, floor, and lighting contributed to a cozy and warm atmosphere for the entire family. Leanne Ford challenged conventional nursery layout rules by not pushing all furniture against the walls. Instead, she positioned Jack’s Canyon Spindle Crib closer to the center of the room and brought the bouclé rocker inward. This arrangement fostered a sense of flow and provided easy access for parents from multiple directions. The casual decor extended to leaning artwork on the dresser, a temporary solution until Jack becomes more mobile, and incorporating repurposed drop-cloth art from The Salt Air Farmhouse, which added a whimsical touch to the space. A significant and playful element in the nursery's design is an enormous vintage disco ball, prominently displayed over the center of the room. This choice reflects a shared affection for disco balls between Leanne and Steve, with Leanne having previously designed a disco ball holiday ornament for her Crate & Barrel collection. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the disco ball serves a functional purpose by reflecting light from the five sputnik-like flush-mount lights, illuminating the space. Steve Ford personally installed all the fixtures, utilizing his Hart Power and Hand Tools, demonstrating his hands-on involvement in the project. The article concludes by listing several products used in the nursery design, including a Homespun Kids Wicker Hamper, Canyon Spindle Crib, Joy Table Lamp, and a Faded Organic Geometric Baby Crib Quilt, all from Leanne Ford's collections. Overall, the project exemplifies a successful integration of a child's space within an unconventional industrial home, maintaining both functionality and a consistent aesthetic through thoughtful design choices and personal touches. #NurseryDesign #WarehouseConversion #IndustrialInterior #LeanneFord #KidsRooms #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #SpacePlanning #UniqueDecor

Architects Annie-Laurie Grabiel and Arthur Furman, founders of Austin-based firm Side Angle Side, embarked on a seven-year-long renovation of their 1939 H-shaped bungalow in Texas. Their initial attraction to the property was its footprint, specifically its double-courtyard layout that allowed natural light to permeate from multiple angles, a characteristic appealing to architects. Despite the presence of a large oak tree shading the front yard and the bungalow having only two bedrooms for their family of four, the potential for light and the inherent charm of courtyard homes drew them in. The extensive renovation was unexpectedly triggered by the failure of a quirky, portable dishwasher. This appliance, which required a sink hook-up and was notoriously noisy, became a focal point. When it finally ceased to function, the couple's decision to replace it evolved into a more ambitious project. They reasoned that if they were updating cabinets for a new dishwasher, they might as well tackle countertops and lighting. This domino effect led to considering electrical upgrades, vaulting ceilings, and eventually, a full roofing overhaul. The sheer scale of their ideas initially led to a feeling of paralysis. However, Furman initiated the renovation by dismantling cabinets, creating a situation that necessitated moving forward. They enlisted the help of Waller Building Co. and Fort Structures to execute their vision. A significant change involved a temporary relocation from the house to facilitate a 200-square-foot addition. This seemingly modest expansion enabled the creation of an extra bedroom and bathroom, significantly improving the functionality of their home for a growing family. During construction, the couple demonstrated a commitment to sustainability and historical preservation by reusing many of the original steel casement windows. One innovative design choice was incorporating the home's original facade into the new foyer, maintaining a sense of honesty and creating an intentional sequence of arrival, as described by Grabiel. The exterior, once a faded blue, received a modern update with Sherwin-Williams Peppercorn, a black-gray shade with blue undertones. Internally, the design emphasized material consistency to avoid decision fatigue, with Saltillo tile used across the entryway, kitchen, bathrooms, and exterior courtyards. Reclaimed longleaf pine boards added warmth to the living areas and bedrooms, while crisp white kitchen cabinets and countertops provided a clean backdrop that allowed vibrant greenery, art, and daily objects to stand out. The project culminated with the addition of a swimming pool constructed from chukum, a Mexican resin known for its versatility. This material allowed for a seamless application across all pool surfaces, eliminating the need for coping or waterline tile. The challenging topography of their property, with a rear half climbing over 10 feet, required significant excavation—30 dump trucks of dirt were removed—to accommodate the pool, terraces, and cement retaining walls. Despite initial fears that nothing would grow again, the excavated area transformed into a mini oasis. The architects' goal was to create an inviting outdoor space for relaxation and social interaction, allowing for conversations to be heard without the noise of the old dishwasher, fostering a beloved outdoor lifestyle common in Texas. #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeRenovation #Bungalow #CourtyardHome #AustinHomes #InteriorDesign #SustainableDesign #OutdoorLiving

London-based interior designer Lonika Chande opted for a unique approach when designing her 2-year-old son Sasha's nursery, eschewing minimalist Scandinavian trends in favor of a cottagecore aesthetic. Influenced by her artistic family background, including her mother, Lucy Dickens (a celebrated artist and great-great-granddaughter of Charles Dickens), and her aunt, a former creative director for The Conran Shop and Habitat, Chande sought to create a room with a distinct point of view. Her design process involved sourcing a variety of vintage furnishings from flea markets and online platforms like Vinterior and Pamono. Notable finds include a dresser with a rich patina that once belonged to a painter, an antique Georgian nursing chair passed down from her mother, and a rattan cow head imported from Morocco. Chande emphasizes that beyond their aesthetic appeal and intriguing histories, these older pieces offer a practical benefit for parents: their pre-existing wear and tear alleviate the pressure to maintain pristine conditions, allowing for a more lived-in and child-friendly environment where minor nicks and dings are embraced rather than worried over. Prior to Sasha's arrival, Chande ensured the safety of the vintage items by making necessary child-friendly modifications. This included re-caning his Victorian crib for added reinforcement and securely bolting an antique, Chippendale-style armoire to the wall. For the flooring, she layered two rugs over the pine floors: a durable IKEA sisal rug designed to withstand the spills and activities of a toddler, topped with a plush checkerboard Berber rug, ideal for playtime. Chande's design philosophy embraced a gradual accumulation of items rather than a fully conceived plan from the outset. She intentionally left spaces within the nursery for future additions, such as travel souvenirs or meaningful gifts from family and friends. This deliberate approach ensures that every accent introduced into the room possesses a unique backstory, complementing the existing vintage treasures and contributing to the room's overarching narrative. The nursery's color palette and patterns were chosen to stimulate curiosity and imagination. Red lacquered trim, vibrant blue curtains, and pops of yellow echo the colors found in the "Alice in Wonderland" wallpaper, a central feature that captivates Sasha. This whimsical wallpaper serves as a backdrop for storytelling and imaginative play, with Chande engaging her son in discussions about the characters. These shared moments of discovery and connection underscore the magical atmosphere of Sasha's nursery, reflecting a thoughtful blend of vintage charm, practicality, and imaginative design. #NurseryDesign #CottagecoreStyle #VintageDecor #KidsRooms #InteriorDesign #ChildFriendlyDecor #CreativeDesign #StorytellingHome #LondonDesign

This article explores seven distinct children's room designs that blend playfulness, whimsy, and style, catering to discerning parents who seek tasteful yet functional spaces for their little ones. These designs span newborn nurseries to rooms for older children, drawing inspiration from various architectural and cultural contexts. The first example is a London penthouse designed by Charu Gandhi, who created a sophisticated yet playful environment for two young children. The design features bespoke bunkbeds with a climbing wall, a desk, and adjustable lacquered cherry red shelves, all incorporating an oceanic theme. The children's bathroom includes charming handmade scalloped tiles and a unique bath, reflecting a blend of whimsy and elegance that ensures the space's longevity as the children grow. Next, a 6,500-square-foot child-friendly home in Ahmedabad, designed by MuseLAB, emphasizes a personal, maintenance-free, and childproof aesthetic. The daughters' bedroom features a watercolor wallpaper and varying levels, designed to stimulate inquisitive minds and adapt as they age. This home, dubbed 'The Nest,' is characterized by fluid and 'homey' elements, fostering warmth and joy. Sonam Kapoor's Mumbai home showcases a maximalist cocooning style, distinguished by Indian craftsmanship. Designer Kavita Singh collaborated on the project, with Jaipur-based fresco artist Vikas Soni painting a whimsical Indian jungle mural in the nursery. Custom furniture, stuffed animals, a 1960s Art Deco chandelier, and Hermès toys contribute to a rich and unique atmosphere. A 6,500-square-foot Hyderabad home, titled 'Equinox' by Studio Nilasha, merges Indian and Dutch cultural influences. The children’s wing, designed for twin daughters, contrasts with the rest of the house by using light oak wood and soft blush accents, avoiding overly feminine decor. This adaptable space features a playroom with a ball pit, reading nooks, a mock play kitchen, and custom cots convertible into standard beds. An Indian tech entrepreneur’s San Francisco house, designed by Alexis Banks Humiston, incorporates Indian spirit through hand-painted Phuljari murals, bone inlay tables, and copper leaf details. The 9,500-square-foot home for three young daughters prioritizes comfort, liveability, and adaptability within a mid-century modern structure, celebrating heritage and family. Finally, a Zen Haven in Bengaluru, a 6,600-square-foot home by Balan + Nambisan Architects, highlights a nursery and daughter’s bedroom. The nursery features playful wallpaper, an arched canopy bed, rounded furniture, and a Montessori-style playhouse with multi-level steps, a magnetic board, and a game zone, promoting creativity and activity while maintaining a serene backdrop. #NurseryDesign #KidsBedrooms #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ChildrensRooms #LuxuryHomes #PlayroomIdeas #CustomFurniture

Jodie Snyder Morel, co-creator of the jewelry line DANNIJO, and her husband Greg Morel collaborated with Noa Santos, co-founder of the interior design firm Homepolish, to design a nursery for their daughter, Margaux. The objective was to transform a guest room/office into a space that was both stylish and functional, allowing their daughter to grow into it rather than being a typical baby's room. The design process began with Snyder Morel's clear understanding of her personal aesthetic, which facilitated a smooth collaboration with Santos. They prioritized selecting key furniture pieces first, and subsequently accessorized the space, embracing a step-by-step approach to allow the room's vibe to evolve naturally. Snyder Morel expressed immense satisfaction with the finished nursery, noting her desire to move in herself, and highlighted their excitement to bring Margaux home to a specially designed, peaceful, and airy environment. Noa Santos emphasized the importance of the client-designer relationship in the success of the project, stating that a strong bond leads to a better outcome. The nursery's color palette primarily features soft whites, creams, and greys, contributing to a calm and serene atmosphere. This choice aimed to create a chic and soothing environment suitable for a baby in a Tribeca apartment. In terms of decor, the room incorporates various textures, playful elements, and distinctive art pieces. Notable inclusions are a large giraffe painting by Jenna Snyder Phillips and a piece by Lyle Owerko. The furniture selections include items from ducduc and a raw crib from Kalon studios. Soft textures were integrated through sheepskin rugs and pillows, enhancing the room's comfort and aesthetic. Snyder Morel described the room's overall feel as "girly in a bohemian gypset way," indicating a blend of feminine charm with a free-spirited, unconventional style. The design successfully maximized the use of space, with Snyder Morel commending Santos for fitting all necessary items without clutter, contributing to the room's peaceful and calm ambiance. The designer's approach avoided a traditional nursery aesthetic, focusing instead on creating a versatile space that Margaux could comfortably inhabit and grow with over time. This collaborative effort resulted in a highly personalized and aesthetically cohesive nursery that met the family's specific vision. #NurseryDesign #CelebrityHomes #InteriorDesign #Homepolish #JodieSnyderMorel #BabyRoom #HomeDecor #BohemianStyle #FunctionalDesign

Christie Tonnessen, founder of Tonnessen Studio, was determined to create a dream nursery for her daughter, Parker, despite living in a rental home. Drawing on her expertise in interior design and marketing for design brands, she developed a plan that focused on impactful, portable elements and cost-efficient details. Tonnessen opted for a curated color palette inspired by a sage green floral fabric from Chelsea Textiles, applying it to ceiling trim, baseboards, and closet doors to infuse character into the previously plain guest room. A key feature of the nursery is a custom-designed daybed, which Tonnessen envisioned as a cozy nook for nursing and comfortable overnight stays. With landlord approval for minor construction, she created a daybed that appears built-in but is actually a twin bed frame and paneled section designed to slide out, simplifying bed-making. The daybed area is further enhanced by custom curtains and a matching Roman shade from Everhem, framing the space and giving it a distinct, cocooning feel. To personalize the nursery, Tonnessen incorporated meaningful touches. Despite assumptions that she would have a boy, she leaned into an animal theme for universally appealing decor. A wicker elephant side table evokes memories of her honeymoon in Thailand, while framed photographs of baby zebras capture her safari experiences. Her husband, Bobby, contributed by finding wall turtles at a flea market, including a baby turtle in the set. Family heirlooms also feature prominently, such as a dresser from Tonnessen's maternal grandmother and an antique French mirror. Navigating the room's layout presented challenges due to its three windows, two doors (including one to a Jack-and-Jill bathroom), and two sets of closet doors, limiting available wall space. Tonnessen strategically placed the crib along the most open wall, while the daybed created a dedicated corner for feeding and reading. The window seat was revitalized with new wall lights and cushion upholstery, becoming a favorite spot for Bobby. The design ensures ample floor space for Parker as she grows and becomes more mobile, with pillows available for comfort against the daybed or window seat. Flexibility and resourcefulness were central to Tonnessen's design philosophy, given the rental constraint. She chose drapery for pattern instead of fabric-wrapped walls, as curtains can be re-hemmed for future homes with different ceiling heights. Similarly, a generously proportioned custom wool rug from Bellbridge was selected with future adaptability in mind, allowing for it to be cut down and re-bound if moved to a smaller space. These thoughtful decisions underscore a practical yet stylish approach to designing a temporary home, reflecting the demands of new parenthood. #NurseryDesign #RentalFriendlyDecor #KidsRooms #InteriorDesign #SpacePlanning #PersonalizedDecor #DIYDesign #FamilySpaces #CreativeSolutions

Jane Keltner de Valle, cofounder and CEO of Paloroma, and her husband, architect Giancarlo Valle, sought the advice of feng shui master Yung Siu after renovating their loft in Brooklyn’s Dumbo neighborhood. Initially expecting minor suggestions, they received more profound insights, particularly concerning the exposed columns and beams in their 1914 factory building loft. Siu indicated these structural elements could negatively impact well-being, prompting the couple to address their then 3-year-old son Roman’s bedroom. Rather than undertaking another major construction project, they devised a creative solution by installing a flowing canopy over Roman’s daybed. This canopy served to mitigate the perceived negative energy from the overhead beams, creating a cozy and private "camping out" atmosphere for their son. Five years later, this feng shui-approved design remains. Roman, now 8, shares the room with his 3-year-old sister, Paloma, who recently transitioned from her crib. To accommodate both children comfortably, the couple replaced Roman's original Donald Judd-inspired daybed with a custom bunk bed. Giancarlo Valle designed this bunk bed to function as a "room within a room," taking advantage of the loft's high ceilings to incorporate chunky posts and a wide ladder. The design also allows for easy on-site assembly, breaking down into five pieces that interlock like a puzzle. Each bunk is equipped with reading sconces, providing individual light sources and fostering independence for both children. The top bunk, designated for Roman, is described as his "private little world in the clouds," while the bottom offers Paloma her own space. Giancarlo's signature wavy furniture designs are integrated into the bunk bed's posts, resembling "giant beanstalks." This wavy motif is consistently applied throughout the children’s long bedroom hallway, featuring built-in drawers and bookshelves with rippling edges. This millwork not only serves as storage for clothes, toys, and artwork but also optimizes otherwise unused space, freeing up the main area for a work and craft table. For the room's color scheme, Jane opted for a gender-neutral palette that moves beyond traditional grays, choosing powder blue and muted orangey red. This color combination holds personal significance for the couple, having appeared in various aspects of their children's lives since Roman's birth. Jane describes the pairing as classic, timeless, whimsical, and fun. The chosen bedroom palette also influenced the branding of her children's skincare business, Paloroma, a name derived from her children's names. Paloma and Roman are actively involved in trying out new products, fostering a sense of pride in the brand. Despite the potential for Roman to desire his own room as he gets older, the siblings genuinely enjoy sharing their unique and thoughtfully designed space, even missing each other when one is away. #KidsRooms #FengShui #HomeDesign #CustomFurniture #InteriorDesign #BunkBeds #ColorPalette #ArchitecturalDesign #ChildrensBedrooms

Naomi Coe, founder of California-based design studio Little Crown Interiors, led the creation of a luxurious and functional nursery for real estate moguls in Beverly Hills. The 275-square-foot space was transformed into a "cozy, luxurious, and girly" environment for their new daughter, blending existing pieces with modern and traditional elements. The design process began with the client's request to incorporate a cherished Edra sofa, which served as a focal point around which the color palette of whites, pinks, and bronze accents was built. A key aspect of Coe's design philosophy for nurseries is ensuring the baby's crib is placed in a safe and central location. For this project, a Nursery Works crib, chosen for its all-acrylic construction, was positioned on the back wall opposite the sofa. This selection introduced a modern touch that harmonized with the home's traditional architectural features, while also contributing to an open and airy feel within the room. Blush hues and diverse textural elements were integral to achieving the desired aesthetic. Notable additions included a custom Kifu Paris changing table and a striking Alexander McQueen-designed rug. The rug, described by Coe as the centerpiece, introduced a whimsical element characteristic of a nursery while maintaining sophistication through subtle black accents, fulfilling the client's desire for an elegant yet playful space. To further enhance the room's traditional aspects and leverage its architectural features, Coe and her team looked to the ceiling. They collaborated with Rebel Walls to customize a wallpaper design that would fit the high, inset ceiling, creating a distinctive statement piece. The chosen color and pattern added a new dimension to the room, drawing the eye upward and contributing to the overall dreamy and curated atmosphere of the nursery. The project successfully combined practicality with high-end design, delivering a personalized and elegant space for the new family. #NurseryDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #BeverlyHills #LittleCrownInteriors #HomeDecor #FeminineDesign #ModernLuxury #ResidentialDesign