Designing a Nursery Without Knowing the Gender
Some projects stay with you long after they’re finished, and this nursery is one of those for me.
This client is a dear friend of mine and Eduard’s, and when she told us she wanted to keep the baby’s gender a surprise until birth, we knew this space needed to be extra special. The goal wasn’t just to design a beautiful nursery, it was to create a calm, welcoming room that would be ready the moment they brought their baby home.
Designing Two Nurseries, One Special Secret
Because the gender was a surprise, we designed two full nursery concepts, one for a boy and one for a girl. Both designs were thoughtfully planned, approved in advance, and kept under wraps until baby arrived. Once the gender was shared, we stepped in and completed the nursery just days before they came home from the hospital.
Being able to help carry that secret, and then reveal the finished space at such a meaningful moment, was incredibly special. Walking into a calm, complete nursery during those first days at home can make such a difference, especially when you’re adjusting to life with a new baby.
A Soft, Timeless Foundation
One of the most important parts of this project was creating a foundation that felt timeless and peaceful. Neutral walls, warm wood tones, and soft textures set the tone for the room, allowing the space to grow with the child over time.
Rather than leaning into anything overly themed, we focused on layers, natural materials, gentle patterns, and pieces that feel cozy but elevated. This approach keeps the room from feeling dated while still feeling playful and sweet.
Thoughtful Details That Make the Space Feel Complete
Small details are what truly bring a nursery to life. In this space, wall sconces provide soft, ambient lighting for late nights and early mornings, while woven baskets add warmth and functional storage for toys and keepsakes.
Artwork was chosen to feel lighthearted and joyful without overpowering the room. Each piece adds personality while still allowing the space to feel calm, something that matters so much in a nursery.
We also paid close attention to textures: soft rugs underfoot, cozy upholstery, and layered fabrics that make the room feel welcoming and lived-in from day one.
Designing for Real Life With a New Baby
A nursery isn’t just about how it looks, it’s about how it functions. We considered traffic flow, lighting placement, storage needs, and how the room would be used during different stages of infancy.
From comfortable seating for feedings to accessible storage for daily essentials, every choice was made with real life in mind. When design supports how you actually live, it removes stress instead of adding to it.
A Space Ready for Day One
Being able to walk into a finished nursery after bringing your baby home is such a gift. There’s already so much change happening in those early days, having one less thing to worry about can make a big difference.
This project was a reminder of why I love what I do. Design isn’t just about creating beautiful spaces, it’s about supporting people through meaningful moments in their lives.
If you’re preparing for a new baby, designing a nursery, or planning a space that needs to feel both functional and personal, I’d love to help you create something that feels just right for your family.