The creation of the perfect nursery for your impending arrival can be child’s play if you put some thought into it.

Metricon interior designer Hannah Joosse believes the design of such a room/space should reflect the homeowners’ style and how they decorated the rest of the residence, whether that theme is Scandinavian, vintage, industrial or contemporary.

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“Otherwise, it will look out of place and you’ll tire of it very quickly,’’ Ms Joosse says.

Mood boards

The interior designer says another key feature of a nursery is a mood board.

“Search the Internet, Metricon’s LookBook and magazines for pictures you love and put them together to create a mood board,’’ she says.

“This will help you to choose your colours, keep your ideas focussed and pull your nursery together.’’

Calming colours

Ms Joosse suggests using soft, tranquil colours. “Consider using colours that are calming and nurturing,’’ she says.

“You can’t go wrong with neutrals and greys. We love layering these with hints of yellow and mint.’’

She points out that another great way to bring more colour into your child’s nursery is by including vintage and wooden toys.

Storage

The Metricon spokeswoman says storage is another vital element in the creation of a nursery.

“All babies come with a lot of stuff, cute things, but lots of it,’’ she says.

“Try to maximize the storage options in your nursery design. For example, using a chest of drawers as a change table is a great way to provide more storage solutions.’’

Think long-term

Ms Joosse adds that it’s also crucial to think long term when designing a nursery.

“Think child-friendly, not childish,’’ she says.

“Try to ensure your main items will grow with your child.  Choose a neutral background, avoid cutesy patterns and prints, and mix in age-appropriate accessories and you’ll reduce the need to redecorate every few years.

“If you want a room to grow with your little one, keep the space as a bit of a
 work-in-progress. Layering, adding and removing bits as your little one grows and changes is a great way in ensure that the nursery doesn’t get ‘stuck’ and subsequently, outgrown.’’

Ms Joosse points out that it’s important that the nursery is a fun and enjoyable space.

“Remember to have fun and enjoy nesting,’’ she says. “A nursery is a place of play and of dreams, for parents and babe.’’