How to Design a Shared Nursery and Toddler Room
Magdalene Liacopoulos from The BebeStyle Co. offers her tips on how to put together a shared nursery and toddler room.
For some parents, putting together their first-born’s nursery can be a relatively blissful experience. With only one child to consider, the room layout is often a no-brainer and let’s be honest – there is a lot more time to plan. Enter baby number two, and the anxiety of housing two children at different stages can start to get a little overwhelming! Rest assured, your children can live harmoniously in both a beautiful and comfortable space. Here’s how to get there…
Stock Take
When designing a shared room, chances are there is existing furniture and accessories, so it’s always a good idea to do an inventory of what will be re-purposed, what might need a freshen up and what needs to be donated or thrown out. A shared room can feel cramped, so it’s important to select pieces that will complement what you already have in both color and style to create a cohesive base. The good news is that brands like Babyletto, ducduc and Oeuf have styles in their furniture ranges that are available in both crib and single bed options.
Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib w/ Conversion Kit
The best-selling Hudson’s iconic turned-out foot, rounded spindle design, and open modern silhouette make it a versatile choice for any modern nursery. I love its convertible design that takes it from a newborn crib well into toddler-hood.
Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib w/ Conversion Kit
$379
More colors available
Babyletto Hudson Platform Twin Bed
Mirroring the mid-century style of the beloved Babyletto Hudson Crib and made with the same eco-friendly, non-toxic materials, the low-profile Hudson Twin bed features a strong platform design that does not require a box spring.
Babyletto Hudson Platform Twin Bed
$399
More colors available
Consider Room Layout
Establishing the right room configuration might involve some playing around but it’s important that function be top of mind. Think about how the room will be used and consider the practical details, like positioning the crib closest to the door to not disrupt your toddler when the baby needs attention. Decorator pieces like rugs, artwork, and a canopy for the crib, when styled correctly, help to define the room’s zones.
Maison Deux Eyes Rug
The latest Eye Rug by Maison Deux is definitely eye-catching (excuse the pun) and would sit perfectly in between two beds!
Maison Deux Eyes Rug
$199
Create Play Zones
During the planning process, it’s important to factor an area—separate to the sleep zones—for both kids to be able to enjoy their own space and explore their individual interests. Children don’t need a lot, so it could be as a simple as having an Olli Ella Polli Shelf on a table for drawing, or a spot at the foot of the bed where blocks can be brought out to play! Be mindful that some toddler toys, while great for their development, will not be suitable for the baby and should be kept out of reach.
Olli Ella Polli Shelf
The Pollie shelf can be easily hung on the wall or put on a table, and works with regular rolled paper as well as with Playpa! It can also be used as a sweet display shelf, perfect for nurseries or kids rooms.
Olli Ella Polli Shelf
$39
Stick To A Color Palette
When finalizing the finishing touches it can be challenging trying to merge the style of two children at different age groups. The best way to maintain consistency is by sticking to a color palette–an artwork or printed bed linen could be a great starting point or inspiration! For example the Atelier Choux Sets add a touch of elegant playfulness to the room.
Atelier Choux Reversible Quilt
Atelier Choux Reversible Quilt
$235
All of those beautiful, vibrant colors of blue, orange, pink and mint will work nicely next to the matching Atelier Choux crib sheet, highlighting the pinks, greens and the blues.
Atelier Choux Organic Fitted Crib Sheet
Atelier Choux Organic Fitted Crib Sheet
$70
MY TOP SHARED BEDROOM PICKS
A personal favorite for kid’s furniture is the range by Oeuf. The Sparrow Crib and Sparrow Twin bed are a timeless and classic design that will grow with your children.
Oeuf Sparrow Crib
With its wide range of finishes, this stylish and versatile crib will co-ordinate with any nursery decor. Slim side rails and spindles give this crib a light, airy feel and make it a favorite of interior designers.
Oeuf Sparrow Crib
$820
Oeuf Sparrow Twin Bed
Clean lines, subtle color and modern style ensure that you child will never outgrow this bed. Good thing it’s built to last.
Oeuf Sparrow Twin Bed
$898
Lorena Canals Hippy Rug
The fact that the Hippy rug by Lorena Canals is machine-washable is a huge plus! If you are also looking to invest in two rugs then this style comes in different color ways, which will keep things consistent without being too ‘matchy-matchy’.
Lorena Canals Hippy Rug
$239
More colors available
Stokke X Petit Pehr Sleepi Canopy
A canopy for the baby’s bed is an effortless way to provide some privacy. This beautiful collaboration with Stokke X Petit Pehr is compatible for the Stokke Sleepi.
Stokke X Petit Pehr Sleepi Canopy
$99
More colors available
Neutra Lidded Basket
Because every room needs beautiful storage – especially a shared space with double of everything! The Neutra lidded basket by Olli Ella will host a myriad of toys during the toddler years and can be switched to a laundry basket as they enter their pre-teens!
Neutra Lidded Basket
$105 – $150
Continue exploring
- Deciphering what is a ‘need’ versus a ‘want’ is always a challenge when selecting décor for a nursery, and the trick is to find a balance where function and practicality meets style. Interior Stylist Magdalene Liacopoulos from The Bebe Style Co. shares her favorite nursery décor pieces from The Tot.
- Montessori Educator Christina Clemer shares five simple tips for creating a Montessori-friendly set up at home for your toddler.
The Bebe Style Co. is a nursery, toddler and children’s room interior styling service. Visit thebebestyleco.com