Progressive, sophisticated and adaptable, gender neutral nursery ideas will save you time, money, and quite frankly a headache that you definitely don't need. This is certainly the case if the idea of a gender reveal makes you cringe or you simply want to keep the ultrasound results under wraps.
And with the world slowing becoming a more inclusive space for our kids to grow up in, we're seeing gender stereotypes being dropped and replaced with unisex fashion, innovative ideas and increased equality.
If learning and education begins in the home, then why not remove the sex-based assumptions right from the start of your newborn's journey into the world? Aside from being forward-thinking, taking a unisex decorating approach to a nursery can save you dollars, too – especially if you choose bring along another sibling later down the line.
From zoo-inspired nursery ideas to marvelous monochrome schemes, we venture away from the notion that blue rooms are for boys and pink rooms for girls. With interior designers creative inclusive solutions, diversity never looked so designer.
Gender neutral nursery ideas
1. Create a boujee black and white scheme
Preparing for a surprise-sex birth can be a challenge at the best of times. From gender-neutral greens to mood-boosting yellows, cool greys and awesome oranges - choosing what color scheme is best for your nursery can be an overwhelming experience.
So why not take the confusion out of the equation by choosing a monochromatic scheme? Although a black bedroom design may be an unusual decision for your baby, the contrast with clean white decor will give your little one a luxury room to have their first sleeps in.
Give your sweet a sophisticated scheme by adding in metallic brass fixtures and minimally framed mirrors and accessories. But, for a daring scheme that grows with your mini-me, animal print can add lots of personality. Contrary to popular belief, leopard and Dalmatian design can be used in a boy's bedroom idea too!
And don't underestimate the power of stylish storage and built-in wardrobe ideas. Although easier said than done, by keeping your kid's bedroom tidy, you can create an expensive look and feel for less. So look to clever ways to hide away toys and clothes with clever bedroom storage ideas.
Peter Erlandsson, Co-Owner of String Furniture says: “ Keeping your child’s bedroom orderly and clutter-free can be a challenge, but simply installing the right storage can help to resolve this.
2. Jazz up this scheme jungle-inspired theme
The stork has delivered, but how do you create a fly makeover?
Wife of British McFly star, Tom Fletcher and more recently crowned queen of reality TV show, 'I'm a Celebrity...get me out of here', Giovanni Fletcher shows us how she created a jungle-inspired scheme.
Working with Wayfair (opens in new tab), she opted for a base palette of soft grey bedroom design with muted pastels to create a calming environment for both mum and baby.
They then off-set this neutrality will hints of mint and egg-yolk yellow to make the scheme pop. An upholstered nursing chair and footstool were introduced for a pop-up place to feed and cuddle.
She says: 'I wanted a fresh, clean space that felt homely and calming.
'The jungle themed wallpaper is stunning and adds so much to the space, while also being neutral and calming. I really love a statement design.
'The tipi tent is gorgeous – such a unique but affordable touch and I can really imagine the baby lying in there and taking it all in.
'There are also so many textures to explore with the cushions, throws and rugs and the muted pastel shades help make it all look so beautiful.
'I’m also really happy with the wardrobe and changing unit. Babies come with lots of stuff - and being the third child, this baby is inheriting a fair few clothes, so it’s good to have somewhere to put it all.
'I love the design of both these items as they feel really unique.'
3. Go wild with a western scheme
Howdy partner! If you want to create a scheme that's as cool as a cowboy, then look no further than a western-inspired space.
Starting off with a brown and beige space, add suede, leather and other natural materials, to create a retro scheme that takes its inspo from the seventies.
To avoid the space from looking boringly brown, add boho bedroom ideas such as fringe and tassel, macrame and colorful embroidered accessories. Just be sure to keep choking hazards out of reach of children.
Wooden crates traditionally used to transport fruit and veg make for great toy storage solutions too. And, if you want to go ace-high with your accessories, look for plush cacti, snakes and horse-shaped playthings.
4. Show your love with inclusive messages
Though your tot isn't expected to read until their at least a toddler, bold text and typography is a great way to tackle a gender-neutral scheme that's as sassy and stylish as you hope your youngster will become.
According to a Pinterest (opens in new tab) trend report, searches for ‘Inclusive Educational Posters’ have shot by 91% in 2020. Though life-lesson wall hangings and slogans are renowned for being a little corny, spreading good energy only encourages positive opinions. And these can really benefit your child’s attitude towards life, their pastoral skills and overall self-development.
Aarti Popat (opens in new tab), Interior Designer, Mentor and Consultant builds on this saying:
'The trend for gender-neutral spaces comes hand in hand with our growing understanding of children's emotional needs in the early years and how their environment can help to stimulate and inspire them.'
By introducing a gallery wall or shelfie with framed prints or textual wall hangings, you can create a space for meaningful messages. However you execute this little learning opportunity, be sure that your frames are securely fixed to your space, out of reach of grabbing hands and placed above head height to avoid injury.
5. Elevate your space with exotic elephants
When Love Island star and influencer Dani Dyer (opens in new tab) was expecting her first child, she turned to Wayfair (opens in new tab) to create a whimsical nesting space that was calming and homely. A gender neutral nursery design was important for Dani as she didn't announce baby boy Santiago's sex later into her pregnancy.
Combining a peel-and-stick elephant printed children's wallpaper design with twinkling star curtains and beautiful bunting, the Essex celeb wanted to create a spiritual space that would settle her baby. Talking over the finer interior details she says:
'The draped canopy and fairy lights are definitely my favorite pieces. They have a lovely energy and the lights add a soothing glow to the room.'
Paying homage to British cleanfluencer Mrs Hinch (opens in new tab), Dani said that she was inspired by Sophie Hincliffe's love of grey, but added cool mint to create a fresh green bedroom design.
According to Wayfair's Resident Style Advisor, Nadia McCowan Hill, she says: 'The soft dove grey palette creates a fresh and calming foundation and is the perfect base color on which to layer pops of color and pattern.'
6. Create a sweet spot with chocolate and caramel hues
Want to create a space that's as cute as a (chocolate) button? Turn to your pantry for interior inspiration.
Despite what you've heard, a bit of sugar and spice and all things nice can make for a gender neutral nursery. By combining brown polka dot wall stickers with cookie-colored bunting, you can create a nursing spot that looks good enough to eat!
Naturally, you'll want to swap wooden spoons for wood decor, so a cot, wall hangings and sustainable toys made from this material are a recipe for success.
But if wood flooring seems a touch too much, soften the space with creamy cushions and soft marshmallow-textured rugs for baby to crawl on.
Don't forget about your bedroom window ideas too! A wooden blind may be a good idea, but be sure to keep the cord out of reach to keep your little one safe from a strangulation risk.
Instead, a nutty-hued blackout blind is an affordable way to keep baby sleeping through the night without sunlight waking them too early. Honeycomb blinds are also great to keep your cubs cool too.
7. Add yellow for a bright and uplifting scheme
If you want to add a bright scheme to your ray of sunshine's space, then yellow should be your color of choice.
Adding sunny notes without the harmful UV rays, yellow is a color that has powerful psychological benefits. Despite baby's brain not being fully developed, we shouldn't underestimate the joy this shade can bring.
Renowned Applied Color Psychology practitioner, consultant, mentor and trainer Karen Haller (opens in new tab) says: ‘Yellow is the color that lifts our spirits and our mood; it’s how we feel when the sun is shining. It fills us with optimism and confidence.’
Incorporate yellow into your scheme in areas that baby will focus on. This may be a bedroom lighting idea on the ceiling, a chair or cushion for where feeding will take place or a gallery wall at a height where he or she will be comforted.
8. Use stencils to create a sensory sensation
If you want to create an environment that's as unique as your new offspring, stencils are a great way to add interest to their bedroom wall decor.
From tree trunks to meadow flowers, bold lettering or farm animals, this paint technique can add a color pop to a small kid's bedroom design. Create a feature wall with all-over stenciling on the nearside of the cot or choose one area to focus on when they get up in the middle of the night.
When deciding on your paint type, there are lots of different finishes to choose from. While glow-in-the-dark paint may entertain baby in the early hours, chalky paint will add vintage charm and a textural contrast for them to touch.
Do be sure to keep the space well-ventilated whilst painting and try to shop for low VOC, non-toxic emulsion.
9. Make a biophilic scheme work for your babe
When planning for a baby, we may have to make some sacrifices when it comes to travel. Whether that's a long-haul vacation or an out-of-state weekend break, sometimes it's best to stay indoors.
So if you're craving a taste of the tropics, you may have to improvise with your little tikes environment. By adding palm trees and cheesecloth plants, you can create a dreamy destination for milk-drinking and dribbling.
The advantages of a biophilic scheme isn't just for adults. Other than adding visual stimulus into this space, the best plants for bedrooms can oxygenate the room and of course eliminate carbon dioxide. However, be sure to remove these plants out of the room come bedtime where they'll produce carbon dioxide and use up oxygen.
If that seems too much of a faff - then go faux. Fake plants and flowers do a great job of adding sophistication to this space. But, be sure to clean petals and leaves regularly as they can collect dust.
10. Revive a room with budget-friendly rainbow details
If you've blown your budget on an enormous order of diapers from Amazon or expensive nursing equipment - we've got you covered.
By choosing a multicolored colored theme, you can create a brand-new bedroom on a budget. Because this scheme is quite busy, you'll want to add color sparingly. Go over-the-top and you'll create a nauseating scheme that even Willy Wonka wants no part of.
But, staying on the candy theme, a few soft furnishings sprinkled here and there can contribute to a saccharine space for your sweet. Affordable and sound-proofing, a colorful rug can add instant impact to this room. Alternatively add a pop-up seating spot with bold beanbags and funky footstools.
Got a few spare sample pots of paint. Create confetti-inspired wall decor to celebrate your new addition to the world!
11. Beginning with a neutral backdrop
A simple, neutral color is the perfect place to start a unisex nursery or kid's bedroom. Interior designer and founder of the Slovakian Mimesis Studio, Marek Cegledy, agrees that this is the best place to begin. He says:
'Children’s bedrooms are an ever-changing thing and neutral color palettes are far easier to adjust to a child's ongoing development. We wouldn’t usually totally refurbish our child’s bedroom every five years to fit with their advancing age, so a gender-neutral beige or cream base is more practical – both for the child and the parent!'
12. Incorporate block colours
Once you have got that blank canvas you can start adding pops of color. Try and avoid the typical pinks and blues and go for less gendered colors – we love oranges or sage greens. Aarti Popat (opens in new tab), an interior designer, has a few suggestions when it comes to color. She says:
'I don’t believe in the age-old belief that boys like blue and girls like pink. I have both and I try to steer them away from gender stereotypes – lead as you want them to believe. Colors that I feel work well with gender-neutral spaces are oranges, greys and even purples. Using different depths of the colors works nicely too.'
13. Add interesting, even educational patterns
'If you’re keen to steer away from a football-themed boy’s den or a fairy-princess girl’s paradise – we recommend incorporating trending bedroom designs with educational interests such as wildlife, the alphabet and world cultures, that will help to encourage learning early on and help eliminate enforced stereotypes.'
14. Spread inclusive messaging in the form of prints
'According to the Pinterest trend report, search around ‘Inclusive Educational Posters’ has increased by 91% since last year.
Though life-lesson wall hangings and slogan messaging are renowned for being a little cheesy – we believe that spreading positive energy only encourages positive opinions, ones that can really benefit your child’s attitude towards life.
Just please avoid anything along the lines of ‘live, laugh, love’...
15. DIY a wall mural in a gender-neutral
A wall mural is perfect for adding some interest to a nursery. You can DIY this look so easily too, all you need is some masking tape and some paint. Just create your mountain shapes with masking tape and paint in between the lines – easy peasy and you can go with whatever colors you like.
16. Add coziness to gender-neutral nursery with a canopy
Canopies are all over Instagram at the moment, and they are a lovely thing to add to a kid's room. The look great and add some texture and coziness to the room, but they also are good for creating the perfect nap space and even a den as your child gets older. Loving this brown/orange color scheme too, perfect if you are trying to avoid pink and blue.
18. Choose a remote-controlled window treatment
It often feels like you need to have multiple hands to juggle the task of nursing a baby. From feeding to cuddling and settling to sleep, there's a lot to do when putting a child down for a nap.
So a remote-controlled window treatment can help to ease the mission of making sure your young child gets their kip.
This sweet safari design from Thomas Sanderson (opens in new tab) will ensure your sleeping lion is undisturbed by light or frustrated rustling when adjusting the cord on a manual blind.
How do you decorate a nursery when you don't know the gender?
Natalie Lockwood, an Interior Designer based in Yorkshire, has shared her thoughts on why she thinks moving away from ingrained gender conventions is a good idea.
She says: 'Once you begin to think about the design of a child's bedroom or playroom without gender stereotypes, you have the freedom to create a much more inspiring, calming and interesting environment for your child.
'Using themes and ideas based on nature, animals and the world that surrounds us is a great way of doing this.'
Progressive, sophisticated and adaptable, gender neutral nursery ideas will save you time, money, and quite frankly a headache that you definitely don't need. This is certainly the case if the idea of a gender reveal makes you cringe or you simply want to keep the ultrasound results up wraps.
And with the world slowing becoming a more inclusive space for our kids to grow up in, we're seeing gender stereotypes being dropped and replaced with unisex fashion, innovative ideas and increased equality.
If learning and education begins in the home, then why not remove the sex-based assumptions right from the start of your newborn's journey into the world? Aside from being forward-thinking, taking a unisex decorating approach to a nursery can save you dollars, too – especially if you choose bring along another sibling later down the line.
From zoo-inspired nursery ideas to marvelous monochrome schemes, we venture away from the notion that blue rooms are for boys and pink rooms for girls. With interior designers creative inclusive solutions, diversity never looked so designer.
So banish the Barbie pink and superhero blue for a scheme that revokes old-fashioned gender roles.
Gender neutral nursery ideas
1. Create a boujee black and white scheme
Preparing for a surprise-sex birth can be a challenge at the best of times. From gender-neutral greens to mood-boosting yellows, cool greys and awesome oranges - choosing what color scheme is best for your nursery can be an overwhelming experience.
So why not take the confusion out of the equation by choosing a monochromatic scheme? Although a black bedroom design may be an unusual decision for your baby, the contrast with clean white decor will give your little one a luxury room to have their first sleeps in.
Give your sweet a sophisticated scheme by adding in metallic brass fixtures and minimally framed mirrors and accessories. But, for a daring scheme that grows with your mini-me, animal print can add lots of personality. Contrary to popular belief, leopard and Dalmatian design can be used in a boy's bedroom idea too!
And don't underestimate the power of stylish storage and built-in wardrobe ideas. Although easier said than done, by keeping your kid's bedroom tidy, you can create an expensive look and feel for less. So look to clever ways to hide away toys and clothes with clever bedroom storage ideas.
Peter Erlandsson, Co-Owner of String Furniture says: “ Keeping your child’s bedroom orderly and clutter-free can be a challenge, but simply installing the right storage can help to resolve this.
2. Jazz up this scheme jungle-inspired theme
The stork has delivered, but how do you create a fly makeover?
Wife of British McFly star, Tom Fletcher and more recently crowned queen of reality TV show, 'I'm a Celebrity...get me out of here', Giovanni Fletcher shows us how she created a jungle-inspired scheme.
Working with Wayfair (opens in new tab), she opted for a base palette of soft grey bedroom design with muted pastels to create a calming environment for both mum and baby.
They then off-set this neutrality will hints of mint and egg-yolk yellow to make the scheme pop. An upholstered nursing chair and footstool were introduced for a pop-up place to feed and cuddle.
She says: 'I wanted a fresh, clean space that felt homely and calming.
'The jungle themed wallpaper is stunning and adds so much to the space, while also being neutral and calming. I really love a statement design.
'The tipi tent is gorgeous – such a unique but affordable touch and I can really imagine the baby lying in there and taking it all in.
'There are also so many textures to explore with the cushions, throws and rugs and the muted pastel shades help make it all look so beautiful.
'I’m also really happy with the wardrobe and changing unit. Babies come with lots of stuff - and being the third child, this baby is inheriting a fair few clothes, so it’s good to have somewhere to put it all.
'I love the design of both these items as they feel really unique.'
3. Go wild with a western scheme
Howdy partner! If you want to create a scheme that's as cool as a cowboy, then look no further than a western-inspired space.
Starting off with a brown and beige space, add suede, leather and other natural materials, to create a retro scheme that takes its inspo from the seventies.
To avoid the space from looking boringly brown, add boho bedroom ideas such as fringe and tassel, macrame and colorful embroidered accessories. Just be sure to keep choking hazards out of reach of children.
Wooden crates traditionally used to transport fruit and veg make for great toy storage solutions too. And, if you want to go ace-high with your accessories, look for plush cacti, snakes and horse-shaped playthings.
4. Show your love with inclusive messages
Though your tot isn't expected to read until their at least a toddler, bold text and typography is a great way to tackle a gender-neutral scheme that's as sassy and stylish as you hope your youngster will become.
According to a Pinterest (opens in new tab) trend report, searches for ‘Inclusive Educational Posters’ have shot by 91% in 2020. Though life-lesson wall hangings and slogans are renowned for being a little corny, spreading good energy only encourages positive opinions. And these can really benefit your child’s attitude towards life, their pastoral skills and overall self-development.
Aarti Popat (opens in new tab), Interior Designer, Mentor and Consultant builds on this saying:
'The trend for gender-neutral spaces comes hand in hand with our growing understanding of children's emotional needs in the early years and how their environment can help to stimulate and inspire them.'
By introducing a gallery wall or shelfie with framed prints or textual wall hangings, you can create a space for meaningful messages. However you execute this little learning opportunity, be sure that your frames are securely fixed to your space, out of reach of grabbing hands and placed above head height to avoid injury.
5. Elevate your space with exotic elephants
When Love Island star and influencer Dani Dyer (opens in new tab) was expecting her first child, she turned to Wayfair (opens in new tab) to create a whimsical nesting space that was calming and homely. A gender neutral nursery design was important for Dani as she didn't announce baby boy Santiago's sex later into her pregnancy.
Combining a peel-and-stick elephant printed children's wallpaper design with twinkling star curtains and beautiful bunting, the Essex celeb wanted to create a spiritual space that would settle her baby. Talking over the finer interior details she says:
'The draped canopy and fairy lights are definitely my favorite pieces. They have a lovely energy and the lights add a soothing glow to the room.'
Paying homage to British cleanfluencer Mrs Hinch (opens in new tab), Dani said that she was inspired by Sophie Hincliffe's love of grey, but added cool mint to create a fresh green bedroom design.
According to Wayfair's Resident Style Advisor, Nadia McCowan Hill, she says: 'The soft dove grey palette creates a fresh and calming foundation and is the perfect base color on which to layer pops of color and pattern.'
6. Create a sweet spot with chocolate and caramel hues
Want to create a space that's as cute as a (chocolate) button? Turn to your pantry for interior inspiration.
Despite what you've heard, a bit of sugar and spice and all things nice can make for a gender neutral nursery. By combining brown polka dot wall stickers with cookie-colored bunting, you can create a nursing spot that looks good enough to eat!
Naturally, you'll want to swap wooden spoons for wood decor, so a cot, wall hangings and sustainable toys made from this material are a recipe for success.
But if wood flooring seems a touch too much, soften the space with creamy cushions and soft marshmallow-textured rugs for baby to crawl on.
Don't forget about your bedroom window ideas too! A wooden blind may be a good idea, but be sure to keep the cord out of reach to keep your little one safe from a strangulation risk.
Instead, a nutty-hued blackout blind is an affordable way to keep baby sleeping through the night without sunlight waking them too early. Honeycomb blinds are also great to keep your cubs cool too.
7. Add yellow for a bright and uplifting scheme
If you want to add a bright scheme to your ray of sunshine's space, then yellow should be your color of choice.
Adding sunny notes without the harmful UV rays, yellow is a color that has powerful psychological benefits. Despite baby's brain not being fully developed, we shouldn't underestimate the joy this shade can bring.
Renowned Applied Color Psychology practitioner, consultant, mentor and trainer Karen Haller (opens in new tab) says: ‘Yellow is the color that lifts our spirits and our mood; it’s how we feel when the sun is shining. It fills us with optimism and confidence.’
Incorporate yellow into your scheme in areas that baby will focus on. This may be a bedroom lighting idea on the ceiling, a chair or cushion for where feeding will take place or a gallery wall at a height where he or she will be comforted.
8. Use stencils to create a sensory sensation
If you want to create an environment that's as unique as your new offspring, stencils are a great way to add interest to their bedroom wall decor.
From tree trunks to meadow flowers, bold lettering or farm animals, this paint technique can add a color pop to a small kid's bedroom design. Create a feature wall with all-over stenciling on the nearside of the cot or choose one area to focus on when they get up in the middle of the night.
When deciding on your paint type, there are lots of different finishes to choose from. While glow-in-the-dark paint may entertain baby in the early hours, chalky paint will add vintage charm and a textural contrast for them to touch.
Do be sure to keep the space well-ventilated whilst painting and try to shop for low VOC, non-toxic emulsion.
9. Make a biophilic scheme work for your babe
When planning for a baby, we may have to make some sacrifices when it comes to travel. Whether that's a long-haul vacation or an out-of-state weekend break, sometimes it's best to stay indoors.
So if you're craving a taste of the tropics, you may have to improvise with your little tikes environment. By adding palm trees and cheesecloth plants, you can create a dreamy destination for milk-drinking and dribbling.
The advantages of a biophilic scheme isn't just for adults. Other than adding visual stimulus into this space, the best plants for bedrooms can oxygenate the room and of course eliminate carbon dioxide. However, be sure to remove these plants out of the room come bedtime where they'll produce carbon dioxide and use up oxygen.
If that seems too much of a faff - then go faux. Fake plants and flowers do a great job of adding sophistication to this space. But, be sure to clean petals and leaves regularly as they can collect dust.
10. Revive a room with budget-friendly rainbow details
If you've blown your budget on an enormous order of diapers from Amazon or expensive nursing equipment - we've got you covered.
By choosing a multicolored colored theme, you can create a brand-new bedroom on a budget. Because this scheme is quite busy, you'll want to add color sparingly. Go over-the-top and you'll create a nauseating scheme that even Willy Wonka wants no part of.
But, staying on the candy theme, a few soft furnishings sprinkled here and there can contribute to a saccharine space for your sweet. Affordable and sound-proofing, a colorful rug can add instant impact to this room. Alternatively add a pop-up seating spot with bold beanbags and funky footstools.
Got a few spare sample pots of paint. Create confetti-inspired wall decor to celebrate your new addition to the world!
11. Beginning with a neutral backdrop
A simple, neutral color is the perfect place to start a unisex nursery or kid's bedroom. Interior designer and founder of the Slovakian Mimesis Studio, Marek Cegledy, agrees that this is the best place to begin. He says:
'Children’s bedrooms are an ever-changing thing and neutral color palettes are far easier to adjust to a child's ongoing development. We wouldn’t usually totally refurbish our child’s bedroom every five years to fit with their advancing age, so a gender-neutral beige or cream base is more practical – both for the child and the parent!'
12. Incorporate block colours
Once you have got that blank canvas you can start adding pops of color. Try and avoid the typical pinks and blues and go for less gendered colors – we love oranges or sage greens. Aarti Popat (opens in new tab), an interior designer, has a few suggestions when it comes to color. She says:
'I don’t believe in the age-old belief that boys like blue and girls like pink. I have both and I try to steer them away from gender stereotypes – lead as you want them to believe. Colors that I feel work well with gender-neutral spaces are oranges, greys and even purples. Using different depths of the colors works nicely too.'
13. Add interesting, even educational patterns
'If you’re keen to steer away from a football-themed boy’s den or a fairy-princess girl’s paradise – we recommend incorporating trending bedroom designs with educational interests such as wildlife, the alphabet and world cultures, that will help to encourage learning early on and help eliminate enforced stereotypes.'
14. Spread inclusive messaging in the form of prints
'According to the Pinterest trend report, search around ‘Inclusive Educational Posters’ has increased by 91% since last year.
Though life-lesson wall hangings and slogan messaging are renowned for being a little cheesy – we believe that spreading positive energy only encourages positive opinions, ones that can really benefit your child’s attitude towards life.
Just please avoid anything along the lines of ‘live, laugh, love’...
15. DIY a wall mural in a gender-neutral
A wall mural is perfect for adding some interest to a nursery. You can DIY this look so easily too, all you need is some masking tape and some paint. Just create your mountain shapes with masking tape and paint in between the lines – easy peasy and you can go with whatever colors you like.
16. Add coziness to gender-neutral nursery with a canopy
Canopies are all over Instagram at the moment, and they are a lovely thing to add to a kid's room. The look great and add some texture and coziness to the room, but they also are good for creating the perfect nap space and even a den as your child gets older. Loving this brown/orange color scheme too, perfect if you are trying to avoid pink and blue.
How do you decorate a nursery when you don't know the gender?
Natalie Lockwood, an Interior Designer based in Yorkshire, has shared her thoughts on why she thinks moving away from ingrained gender conventions is a good idea.
She says: 'Once you begin to think about the design of a child's bedroom or playroom without gender stereotypes, you have the freedom to create a much more inspiring, calming and interesting environment for your child.
'Using themes and ideas based on nature, animals and the world that surrounds us is a great way of doing this.'
Progressive, sophisticated and adaptable, gender neutral nursery ideas will save you time, money, and quite frankly a headache that you definitely don't need. This is certainly the case if the idea of a gender reveal makes you cringe or you simply want to keep the ultrasound results up wraps.
And with the world slowing becoming a more inclusive space for our kids to grow up in, we're seeing gender stereotypes being dropped and replaced with unisex fashion, innovative ideas and increased equality.
If learning and education begins in the home, then why not remove the sex-based assumptions right from the start of your newborn's journey into the world? Aside from being forward-thinking, taking a unisex decorating approach to a nursery can save you dollars, too – especially if you choose bring along another sibling later down the line.
From zoo-inspired nursery ideas to marvelous monochrome schemes, we venture away from the notion that blue rooms are for boys and pink rooms for girls. With interior designers creative inclusive solutions, diversity never looked so designer.
So banish the Barbie pink and superhero blue for a scheme that revokes old-fashioned gender roles.
Gender neutral nursery ideas
1. Create a boujee black and white scheme
Preparing for a surprise-sex birth can be a challenge at the best of times. From gender-neutral greens to mood-boosting yellows, cool greys and awesome oranges - choosing what color scheme is best for your nursery can be an overwhelming experience.
So why not take the confusion out of the equation by choosing a monochromatic scheme? Although a black bedroom design may be an unusual decision for your baby, the contrast with clean white decor will give your little one a luxury room to have their first sleeps in.
Give your sweet a sophisticated scheme by adding in metallic brass fixtures and minimally framed mirrors and accessories. But, for a daring scheme that grows with your mini-me, animal print can add lots of personality. Contrary to popular belief, leopard and Dalmatian design can be used in a boy's bedroom idea too!
And don't underestimate the power of stylish storage and built-in wardrobe ideas. Although easier said than done, by keeping your kid's bedroom tidy, you can create an expensive look and feel for less. So look to clever ways to hide away toys and clothes with clever bedroom storage ideas.
Peter Erlandsson, Co-Owner of String Furniture says: “ Keeping your child’s bedroom orderly and clutter-free can be a challenge, but simply installing the right storage can help to resolve this.
2. Jazz up this scheme jungle-inspired theme
The stork has delivered, but how do you create a fly makeover?
Wife of British McFly star, Tom Fletcher and more recently crowned queen of reality TV show, 'I'm a Celebrity...get me out of here', Giovanni Fletcher shows us how she created a jungle-inspired scheme.
Working with Wayfair (opens in new tab), she opted for a base palette of soft grey bedroom design with muted pastels to create a calming environment for both mum and baby.
They then off-set this neutrality will hints of mint and egg-yolk yellow to make the scheme pop. An upholstered nursing chair and footstool were introduced for a pop-up place to feed and cuddle.
She says: 'I wanted a fresh, clean space that felt homely and calming.
'The jungle themed wallpaper is stunning and adds so much to the space, while also being neutral and calming. I really love a statement design.
'The tipi tent is gorgeous – such a unique but affordable touch and I can really imagine the baby lying in there and taking it all in.
'There are also so many textures to explore with the cushions, throws and rugs and the muted pastel shades help make it all look so beautiful.
'I’m also really happy with the wardrobe and changing unit. Babies come with lots of stuff - and being the third child, this baby is inheriting a fair few clothes, so it’s good to have somewhere to put it all.
'I love the design of both these items as they feel really unique.'
3. Go wild with a western scheme
Howdy partner! If you want to create a scheme that's as cool as a cowboy, then look no further than a western-inspired space.
Starting off with a brown and beige space, add suede, leather and other natural materials, to create a retro scheme that takes its inspo from the seventies.
To avoid the space from looking boringly brown, add boho bedroom ideas such as fringe and tassel, macrame and colorful embroidered accessories. Just be sure to keep choking hazards out of reach of children.
Wooden crates traditionally used to transport fruit and veg make for great toy storage solutions too. And, if you want to go ace-high with your accessories, look for plush cacti, snakes and horse-shaped playthings.
4. Show your love with inclusive messages
Though your tot isn't expected to read until their at least a toddler, bold text and typography is a great way to tackle a gender-neutral scheme that's as sassy and stylish as you hope your youngster will become.
According to a Pinterest (opens in new tab) trend report, searches for ‘Inclusive Educational Posters’ have shot by 91% in 2020. Though life-lesson wall hangings and slogans are renowned for being a little corny, spreading good energy only encourages positive opinions. And these can really benefit your child’s attitude towards life, their pastoral skills and overall self-development.
Aarti Popat (opens in new tab), Interior Designer, Mentor and Consultant builds on this saying:
'The trend for gender-neutral spaces comes hand in hand with our growing understanding of children's emotional needs in the early years and how their environment can help to stimulate and inspire them.'
By introducing a gallery wall or shelfie with framed prints or textual wall hangings, you can create a space for meaningful messages. However you execute this little learning opportunity, be sure that your frames are securely fixed to your space, out of reach of grabbing hands and placed above head height to avoid injury.
5. Elevate your space with exotic elephants
When Love Island star and influencer Dani Dyer (opens in new tab) was expecting her first child, she turned to Wayfair (opens in new tab) to create a whimsical nesting space that was calming and homely. A gender neutral nursery design was important for Dani as she didn't announce baby boy Santiago's sex later into her pregnancy.
Combining a peel-and-stick elephant printed children's wallpaper design with twinkling star curtains and beautiful bunting, the Essex celeb wanted to create a spiritual space that would settle her baby. Talking over the finer interior details she says:
'The draped canopy and fairy lights are definitely my favorite pieces. They have a lovely energy and the lights add a soothing glow to the room.'
Paying homage to British cleanfluencer Mrs Hinch (opens in new tab), Dani said that she was inspired by Sophie Hincliffe's love of grey, but added cool mint to create a fresh green bedroom design.
According to Wayfair's Resident Style Advisor, Nadia McCowan Hill, she says: 'The soft dove grey palette creates a fresh and calming foundation and is the perfect base color on which to layer pops of color and pattern.'
6. Create a sweet spot with chocolate and caramel hues
Want to create a space that's as cute as a (chocolate) button? Turn to your pantry for interior inspiration.
Despite what you've heard, a bit of sugar and spice and all things nice can make for a gender neutral nursery. By combining brown polka dot wall stickers with cookie-colored bunting, you can create a nursing spot that looks good enough to eat!
Naturally, you'll want to swap wooden spoons for wood decor, so a cot, wall hangings and sustainable toys made from this material are a recipe for success.
But if wood flooring seems a touch too much, soften the space with creamy cushions and soft marshmallow-textured rugs for baby to crawl on.
Don't forget about your bedroom window ideas too! A wooden blind may be a good idea, but be sure to keep the cord out of reach to keep your little one safe from a strangulation risk.
Instead, a nutty-hued blackout blind is an affordable way to keep baby sleeping through the night without sunlight waking them too early. Honeycomb blinds are also great to keep your cubs cool too.
7. Add yellow for a bright and uplifting scheme
If you want to add a bright scheme to your ray of sunshine's space, then yellow should be your color of choice.
Adding sunny notes without the harmful UV rays, yellow is a color that has powerful psychological benefits. Despite baby's brain not being fully developed, we shouldn't underestimate the joy this shade can bring.
Renowned Applied Color Psychology practitioner, consultant, mentor and trainer Karen Haller (opens in new tab) says: ‘Yellow is the color that lifts our spirits and our mood; it’s how we feel when the sun is shining. It fills us with optimism and confidence.’
Incorporate yellow into your scheme in areas that baby will focus on. This may be a bedroom lighting idea on the ceiling, a chair or cushion for where feeding will take place or a gallery wall at a height where he or she will be comforted.
8. Use stencils to create a sensory sensation
If you want to create an environment that's as unique as your new offspring, stencils are a great way to add interest to their bedroom wall decor.
From tree trunks to meadow flowers, bold lettering or farm animals, this paint technique can add a color pop to a small kid's bedroom design. Create a feature wall with all-over stenciling on the nearside of the cot or choose one area to focus on when they get up in the middle of the night.
When deciding on your paint type, there are lots of different finishes to choose from. While glow-in-the-dark paint may entertain baby in the early hours, chalky paint will add vintage charm and a textural contrast for them to touch.
Do be sure to keep the space well-ventilated whilst painting and try to shop for low VOC, non-toxic emulsion.
9. Make a biophilic scheme work for your babe
When planning for a baby, we may have to make some sacrifices when it comes to travel. Whether that's a long-haul vacation or an out-of-state weekend break, sometimes it's best to stay indoors.
So if you're craving a taste of the tropics, you may have to improvise with your little tikes environment. By adding palm trees and cheesecloth plants, you can create a dreamy destination for milk-drinking and dribbling.
The advantages of a biophilic scheme isn't just for adults. Other than adding visual stimulus into this space, the best plants for bedrooms can oxygenate the room and of course eliminate carbon dioxide. However, be sure to remove these plants out of the room come bedtime where they'll produce carbon dioxide and use up oxygen.
If that seems too much of a faff - then go faux. Fake plants and flowers do a great job of adding sophistication to this space. But, be sure to clean petals and leaves regularly as they can collect dust.
10. Revive a room with budget-friendly rainbow details
If you've blown your budget on an enormous order of diapers from Amazon or expensive nursing equipment - we've got you covered.
By choosing a multicolored colored theme, you can create a brand-new bedroom on a budget. Because this scheme is quite busy, you'll want to add color sparingly. Go over-the-top and you'll create a nauseating scheme that even Willy Wonka wants no part of.
But, staying on the candy theme, a few soft furnishings sprinkled here and there can contribute to a saccharine space for your sweet. Affordable and sound-proofing, a colorful rug can add instant impact to this room. Alternatively add a pop-up seating spot with bold beanbags and funky footstools.
Got a few spare sample pots of paint. Create confetti-inspired wall decor to celebrate your new addition to the world!
11. Beginning with a neutral backdrop
A simple, neutral color is the perfect place to start a unisex nursery or kid's bedroom. Interior designer and founder of the Slovakian Mimesis Studio, Marek Cegledy, agrees that this is the best place to begin. He says:
'Children’s bedrooms are an ever-changing thing and neutral color palettes are far easier to adjust to a child's ongoing development. We wouldn’t usually totally refurbish our child’s bedroom every five years to fit with their advancing age, so a gender-neutral beige or cream base is more practical – both for the child and the parent!'
12. Incorporate block colours
Once you have got that blank canvas you can start adding pops of color. Try and avoid the typical pinks and blues and go for less gendered colors – we love oranges or sage greens. Aarti Popat (opens in new tab), an interior designer, has a few suggestions when it comes to color. She says:
'I don’t believe in the age-old belief that boys like blue and girls like pink. I have both and I try to steer them away from gender stereotypes – lead as you want them to believe. Colors that I feel work well with gender-neutral spaces are oranges, greys and even purples. Using different depths of the colors works nicely too.'
13. Add interesting, even educational patterns
'If you’re keen to steer away from a football-themed boy’s den or a fairy-princess girl’s paradise – we recommend incorporating trending bedroom designs with educational interests such as wildlife, the alphabet and world cultures, that will help to encourage learning early on and help eliminate enforced stereotypes.'
14. Spread inclusive messaging in the form of prints
'According to the Pinterest trend report, search around ‘Inclusive Educational Posters’ has increased by 91% since last year.
Though life-lesson wall hangings and slogan messaging are renowned for being a little cheesy – we believe that spreading positive energy only encourages positive opinions, ones that can really benefit your child’s attitude towards life.
Just please avoid anything along the lines of ‘live, laugh, love’...
15. DIY a wall mural in a gender-neutral
A wall mural is perfect for adding some interest to a nursery. You can DIY this look so easily too, all you need is some masking tape and some paint. Just create your mountain shapes with masking tape and paint in between the lines – easy peasy and you can go with whatever colors you like.
16. Add coziness to gender-neutral nursery with a canopy
Canopies are all over Instagram at the moment, and they are a lovely thing to add to a kid's room. The look great and add some texture and coziness to the room, but they also are good for creating the perfect nap space and even a den as your child gets older. Loving this brown/orange color scheme too, perfect if you are trying to avoid pink and blue.
How do you decorate a nursery when you don't know the gender?
Natalie Lockwood, an Interior Designer based in Yorkshire, has shared her thoughts on why she thinks moving away from ingrained gender conventions is a good idea.
She says: 'Once you begin to think about the design of a child's bedroom or playroom without gender stereotypes, you have the freedom to create a much more inspiring, calming and interesting environment for your child.
'Using themes and ideas based on nature, animals and the world that surrounds us is a great way of doing this.'
Progressive, sophisticated and adaptable, gender neutral nursery ideas will save you time, money, and quite frankly a headache that you definitely don't need. This is certainly the case if the idea of a gender reveal makes you cringe or you simply want to keep the ultrasound results up wraps.
And with the world slowing becoming a more inclusive space for our kids to grow up in, we're seeing gender stereotypes being dropped and replaced with unisex fashion, innovative ideas and increased equality.
If learning and education begins in the home, then why not remove the sex-based assumptions right from the start of your newborn's journey into the world? Aside from being forward-thinking, taking a unisex decorating approach to a nursery can save you dollars, too – especially if you choose bring along another sibling later down the line.
From zoo-inspired nursery ideas to marvelous monochrome schemes, we venture away from the notion that blue rooms are for boys and pink rooms for girls. With interior designers creative inclusive solutions, diversity never looked so designer.
So banish the Barbie pink and superhero blue for a scheme that revokes old-fashioned gender roles.
Gender neutral nursery ideas
1. Create a boujee black and white scheme
Preparing for a surprise-sex birth can be a challenge at the best of times. From gender-neutral greens to mood-boosting yellows, cool greys and awesome oranges - choosing what color scheme is best for your nursery can be an overwhelming experience.
So why not take the confusion out of the equation by choosing a monochromatic scheme? Although a black bedroom design may be an unusual decision for your baby, the contrast with clean white decor will give your little one a luxury room to have their first sleeps in.
Give your sweet a sophisticated scheme by adding in metallic brass fixtures and minimally framed mirrors and accessories. But, for a daring scheme that grows with your mini-me, animal print can add lots of personality. Contrary to popular belief, leopard and Dalmatian design can be used in a boy's bedroom idea too!
And don't underestimate the power of stylish storage and built-in wardrobe ideas. Although easier said than done, by keeping your kid's bedroom tidy, you can create an expensive look and feel for less. So look to clever ways to hide away toys and clothes with clever bedroom storage ideas.
Peter Erlandsson, Co-Owner of String Furniture says: “ Keeping your child’s bedroom orderly and clutter-free can be a challenge, but simply installing the right storage can help to resolve this.
2. Jazz up this scheme jungle-inspired theme
The stork has delivered, but how do you create a fly makeover?
Wife of British McFly star, Tom Fletcher and more recently crowned queen of reality TV show, 'I'm a Celebrity...get me out of here', Giovanni Fletcher shows us how she created a jungle-inspired scheme.
Working with Wayfair (opens in new tab), she opted for a base palette of soft grey bedroom design with muted pastels to create a calming environment for both mum and baby.
They then off-set this neutrality will hints of mint and egg-yolk yellow to make the scheme pop. An upholstered nursing chair and footstool were introduced for a pop-up place to feed and cuddle.
She says: 'I wanted a fresh, clean space that felt homely and calming.
'The jungle themed wallpaper is stunning and adds so much to the space, while also being neutral and calming. I really love a statement design.
'The tipi tent is gorgeous – such a unique but affordable touch and I can really imagine the baby lying in there and taking it all in.
'There are also so many textures to explore with the cushions, throws and rugs and the muted pastel shades help make it all look so beautiful.
'I’m also really happy with the wardrobe and changing unit. Babies come with lots of stuff - and being the third child, this baby is inheriting a fair few clothes, so it’s good to have somewhere to put it all.
'I love the design of both these items as they feel really unique.'
3. Go wild with a western scheme
Howdy partner! If you want to create a scheme that's as cool as a cowboy, then look no further than a western-inspired space.
Starting off with a brown and beige space, add suede, leather and other natural materials, to create a retro scheme that takes its inspo from the seventies.
To avoid the space from looking boringly brown, add boho bedroom ideas such as fringe and tassel, macrame and colorful embroidered accessories. Just be sure to keep choking hazards out of reach of children.
Wooden crates traditionally used to transport fruit and veg make for great toy storage solutions too. And, if you want to go ace-high with your accessories, look for plush cacti, snakes and horse-shaped playthings.
4. Show your love with inclusive messages
Though your tot isn't expected to read until their at least a toddler, bold text and typography is a great way to tackle a gender-neutral scheme that's as sassy and stylish as you hope your youngster will become.
According to a Pinterest (opens in new tab) trend report, searches for ‘Inclusive Educational Posters’ have shot by 91% in 2020. Though life-lesson wall hangings and slogans are renowned for being a little corny, spreading good energy only encourages positive opinions. And these can really benefit your child’s attitude towards life, their pastoral skills and overall self-development.
Aarti Popat (opens in new tab), Interior Designer, Mentor and Consultant builds on this saying:
'The trend for gender-neutral spaces comes hand in hand with our growing understanding of children's emotional needs in the early years and how their environment can help to stimulate and inspire them.'
By introducing a gallery wall or shelfie with framed prints or textual wall hangings, you can create a space for meaningful messages. However you execute this little learning opportunity, be sure that your frames are securely fixed to your space, out of reach of grabbing hands and placed above head height to avoid injury.
5. Elevate your space with exotic elephants
When Love Island star and influencer Dani Dyer (opens in new tab) was expecting her first child, she turned to Wayfair (opens in new tab) to create a whimsical nesting space that was calming and homely. A gender neutral nursery design was important for Dani as she didn't announce baby boy Santiago's sex later into her pregnancy.
Combining a peel-and-stick elephant printed children's wallpaper design with twinkling star curtains and beautiful bunting, the Essex celeb wanted to create a spiritual space that would settle her baby. Talking over the finer interior details she says:
'The draped canopy and fairy lights are definitely my favorite pieces. They have a lovely energy and the lights add a soothing glow to the room.'
Paying homage to British cleanfluencer Mrs Hinch (opens in new tab), Dani said that she was inspired by Sophie Hincliffe's love of grey, but added cool mint to create a fresh green bedroom design.
According to Wayfair's Resident Style Advisor, Nadia McCowan Hill, she says: 'The soft dove grey palette creates a fresh and calming foundation and is the perfect base color on which to layer pops of color and pattern.'
6. Create a sweet spot with chocolate and caramel hues
Want to create a space that's as cute as a (chocolate) button? Turn to your pantry for interior inspiration.
Despite what you've heard, a bit of sugar and spice and all things nice can make for a gender neutral nursery. By combining brown polka dot wall stickers with cookie-colored bunting, you can create a nursing spot that looks good enough to eat!
Naturally, you'll want to swap wooden spoons for wood decor, so a cot, wall hangings and sustainable toys made from this material are a recipe for success.
But if wood flooring seems a touch too much, soften the space with creamy cushions and soft marshmallow-textured rugs for baby to crawl on.
Don't forget about your bedroom window ideas too! A wooden blind may be a good idea, but be sure to keep the cord out of reach to keep your little one safe from a strangulation risk.
Instead, a nutty-hued blackout blind is an affordable way to keep baby sleeping through the night without sunlight waking them too early. Honeycomb blinds are also great to keep your cubs cool too.
7. Add yellow for a bright and uplifting scheme
If you want to add a bright scheme to your ray of sunshine's space, then yellow should be your color of choice.
Adding sunny notes without the harmful UV rays, yellow is a color that has powerful psychological benefits. Despite baby's brain not being fully developed, we shouldn't underestimate the joy this shade can bring.
Renowned Applied Color Psychology practitioner, consultant, mentor and trainer Karen Haller (opens in new tab) says: ‘Yellow is the color that lifts our spirits and our mood; it’s how we feel when the sun is shining. It fills us with optimism and confidence.’
Incorporate yellow into your scheme in areas that baby will focus on. This may be a bedroom lighting idea on the ceiling, a chair or cushion for where feeding will take place or a gallery wall at a height where he or she will be comforted.
8. Use stencils to create a sensory sensation
If you want to create an environment that's as unique as your new offspring, stencils are a great way to add interest to their bedroom wall decor.
From tree trunks to meadow flowers, bold lettering or farm animals, this paint technique can add a color pop to a small kid's bedroom design. Create a feature wall with all-over stenciling on the nearside of the cot or choose one area to focus on when they get up in the middle of the night.
When deciding on your paint type, there are lots of different finishes to choose from. While glow-in-the-dark paint may entertain baby in the early hours, chalky paint will add vintage charm and a textural contrast for them to touch.
Do be sure to keep the space well-ventilated whilst painting and try to shop for low VOC, non-toxic emulsion.
9. Make a biophilic scheme work for your babe
When planning for a baby, we may have to make some sacrifices when it comes to travel. Whether that's a long-haul vacation or an out-of-state weekend break, sometimes it's best to stay indoors.
So if you're craving a taste of the tropics, you may have to improvise with your little tikes environment. By adding palm trees and cheesecloth plants, you can create a dreamy destination for milk-drinking and dribbling.
The advantages of a biophilic scheme isn't just for adults. Other than adding visual stimulus into this space, the best plants for bedrooms can oxygenate the room and of course eliminate carbon dioxide. However, be sure to remove these plants out of the room come bedtime where they'll produce carbon dioxide and use up oxygen.
If that seems too much of a faff - then go faux. Fake plants and flowers do a great job of adding sophistication to this space. But, be sure to clean petals and leaves regularly as they can collect dust.
10. Revive a room with budget-friendly rainbow details
If you've blown your budget on an enormous order of diapers from Amazon or expensive nursing equipment - we've got you covered.
By choosing a multicolored colored theme, you can create a brand-new bedroom on a budget. Because this scheme is quite busy, you'll want to add color sparingly. Go over-the-top and you'll create a nauseating scheme that even Willy Wonka wants no part of.
But, staying on the candy theme, a few soft furnishings sprinkled here and there can contribute to a saccharine space for your sweet. Affordable and sound-proofing, a colorful rug can add instant impact to this room. Alternatively add a pop-up seating spot with bold beanbags and funky footstools.
Got a few spare sample pots of paint. Create confetti-inspired wall decor to celebrate your new addition to the world!
11. Beginning with a neutral backdrop
A simple, neutral color is the perfect place to start a unisex nursery or kid's bedroom. Interior designer and founder of the Slovakian Mimesis Studio, Marek Cegledy, agrees that this is the best place to begin. He says:
'Children’s bedrooms are an ever-changing thing and neutral color palettes are far easier to adjust to a child's ongoing development. We wouldn’t usually totally refurbish our child’s bedroom every five years to fit with their advancing age, so a gender-neutral beige or cream base is more practical – both for the child and the parent!'
12. Incorporate block colours
Once you have got that blank canvas you can start adding pops of color. Try and avoid the typical pinks and blues and go for less gendered colors – we love oranges or sage greens. Aarti Popat (opens in new tab), an interior designer, has a few suggestions when it comes to color. She says:
'I don’t believe in the age-old belief that boys like blue and girls like pink. I have both and I try to steer them away from gender stereotypes – lead as you want them to believe. Colors that I feel work well with gender-neutral spaces are oranges, greys and even purples. Using different depths of the colors works nicely too.'
13. Add interesting, even educational patterns
'If you’re keen to steer away from a football-themed boy’s den or a fairy-princess girl’s paradise – we recommend incorporating trending bedroom designs with educational interests such as wildlife, the alphabet and world cultures, that will help to encourage learning early on and help eliminate enforced stereotypes.'
14. Spread inclusive messaging in the form of prints
'According to the Pinterest trend report, search around ‘Inclusive Educational Posters’ has increased by 91% since last year.
Though life-lesson wall hangings and slogan messaging are renowned for being a little cheesy – we believe that spreading positive energy only encourages positive opinions, ones that can really benefit your child’s attitude towards life.
Just please avoid anything along the lines of ‘live, laugh, love’...
15. DIY a wall mural in a gender-neutral
A wall mural is perfect for adding some interest to a nursery. You can DIY this look so easily too, all you need is some masking tape and some paint. Just create your mountain shapes with masking tape and paint in between the lines – easy peasy and you can go with whatever colors you like.
16. Add coziness to gender-neutral nursery with a canopy
Canopies are all over Instagram at the moment, and they are a lovely thing to add to a kid's room. The look great and add some texture and coziness to the room, but they also are good for creating the perfect nap space and even a den as your child gets older. Loving this brown/orange color scheme too, perfect if you are trying to avoid pink and blue.
How do you decorate a nursery when you don't know the gender?
Natalie Lockwood, an Interior Designer based in Yorkshire, has shared her thoughts on why she thinks moving away from ingrained gender conventions is a good idea.
She says: 'Once you begin to think about the design of a child's bedroom or playroom without gender stereotypes, you have the freedom to create a much more inspiring, calming and interesting environment for your child.
'Using themes and ideas based on nature, animals and the world that surrounds us is a great way of doing this.'
Progressive, sophisticated and adaptable, gender neutral nursery ideas will save you time, money, and quite frankly a headache that you definitely don't need. This is certainly the case if the idea of a gender reveal makes you cringe or you simply want to keep the ultrasound results up wraps.
And with the world slowing becoming a more inclusive space for our kids to grow up in, we're seeing gender stereotypes being dropped and replaced with unisex fashion, innovative ideas and increased equality.
If learning and education begins in the home, then why not remove the sex-based assumptions right from the start of your newborn's journey into the world? Aside from being forward-thinking, taking a unisex decorating approach to a nursery can save you dollars, too – especially if you choose bring along another sibling later down the line.
From zoo-inspired nursery ideas to marvelous monochrome schemes, we venture away from the notion that blue rooms are for boys and pink rooms for girls. With interior designers creative inclusive solutions, diversity never looked so designer.
So banish the Barbie pink and superhero blue for a scheme that revokes old-fashioned gender roles.
Gender neutral nursery ideas
1. Create a boujee black and white scheme
Preparing for a surprise-sex birth can be a challenge at the best of times. From gender-neutral greens to mood-boosting yellows, cool greys and awesome oranges - choosing what color scheme is best for your nursery can be an overwhelming experience.
So why not take the confusion out of the equation by choosing a monochromatic scheme? Although a black bedroom design may be an unusual decision for your baby, the contrast with clean white decor will give your little one a luxury room to have their first sleeps in.
Give your sweet a sophisticated scheme by adding in metallic brass fixtures and minimally framed mirrors and accessories. But, for a daring scheme that grows with your mini-me, animal print can add lots of personality. Contrary to popular belief, leopard and Dalmatian design can be used in a boy's bedroom idea too!
And don't underestimate the power of stylish storage and built-in wardrobe ideas. Although easier said than done, by keeping your kid's bedroom tidy, you can create an expensive look and feel for less. So look to clever ways to hide away toys and clothes with clever bedroom storage ideas.
Peter Erlandsson, Co-Owner of String Furniture says: “ Keeping your child’s bedroom orderly and clutter-free can be a challenge, but simply installing the right storage can help to resolve this.
2. Jazz up this scheme jungle-inspired theme
The stork has delivered, but how do you create a fly makeover?
Wife of British McFly star, Tom Fletcher and more recently crowned queen of reality TV show, 'I'm a Celebrity...get me out of here', Giovanni Fletcher shows us how she created a jungle-inspired scheme.
Working with Wayfair (opens in new tab), she opted for a base palette of soft grey bedroom design with muted pastels to create a calming environment for both mum and baby.
They then off-set this neutrality will hints of mint and egg-yolk yellow to make the scheme pop. An upholstered nursing chair and footstool were introduced for a pop-up place to feed and cuddle.
She says: 'I wanted a fresh, clean space that felt homely and calming.
'The jungle themed wallpaper is stunning and adds so much to the space, while also being neutral and calming. I really love a statement design.
'The tipi tent is gorgeous – such a unique but affordable touch and I can really imagine the baby lying in there and taking it all in.
'There are also so many textures to explore with the cushions, throws and rugs and the muted pastel shades help make it all look so beautiful.
'I’m also really happy with the wardrobe and changing unit. Babies come with lots of stuff - and being the third child, this baby is inheriting a fair few clothes, so it’s good to have somewhere to put it all.
'I love the design of both these items as they feel really unique.'
3. Go wild with a western scheme
Howdy partner! If you want to create a scheme that's as cool as a cowboy, then look no further than a western-inspired space.
Starting off with a brown and beige space, add suede, leather and other natural materials, to create a retro scheme that takes its inspo from the seventies.
To avoid the space from looking boringly brown, add boho bedroom ideas such as fringe and tassel, macrame and colorful embroidered accessories. Just be sure to keep choking hazards out of reach of children.
Wooden crates traditionally used to transport fruit and veg make for great toy storage solutions too. And, if you want to go ace-high with your accessories, look for plush cacti, snakes and horse-shaped playthings.
4. Show your love with inclusive messages
Though your tot isn't expected to read until their at least a toddler, bold text and typography is a great way to tackle a gender-neutral scheme that's as sassy and stylish as you hope your youngster will become.
According to a Pinterest (opens in new tab) trend report, searches for ‘Inclusive Educational Posters’ have shot by 91% in 2020. Though life-lesson wall hangings and slogans are renowned for being a little corny, spreading good energy only encourages positive opinions. And these can really benefit your child’s attitude towards life, their pastoral skills and overall self-development.
Aarti Popat (opens in new tab), Interior Designer, Mentor and Consultant builds on this saying:
'The trend for gender-neutral spaces comes hand in hand with our growing understanding of children's emotional needs in the early years and how their environment can help to stimulate and inspire them.'
By introducing a gallery wall or shelfie with framed prints or textual wall hangings, you can create a space for meaningful messages. However you execute this little learning opportunity, be sure that your frames are securely fixed to your space, out of reach of grabbing hands and placed above head height to avoid injury.
5. Elevate your space with exotic elephants
When Love Island star and influencer Dani Dyer (opens in new tab) was expecting her first child, she turned to Wayfair (opens in new tab) to create a whimsical nesting space that was calming and homely. A gender neutral nursery design was important for Dani as she didn't announce baby boy Santiago's sex later into her pregnancy.
Combining a peel-and-stick elephant printed children's wallpaper design with twinkling star curtains and beautiful bunting, the Essex celeb wanted to create a spiritual space that would settle her baby. Talking over the finer interior details she says:
'The draped canopy and fairy lights are definitely my favorite pieces. They have a lovely energy and the lights add a soothing glow to the room.'
Paying homage to British cleanfluencer Mrs Hinch (opens in new tab), Dani said that she was inspired by Sophie Hincliffe's love of grey, but added cool mint to create a fresh green bedroom design.
According to Wayfair's Resident Style Advisor, Nadia McCowan Hill, she says: 'The soft dove grey palette creates a fresh and calming foundation and is the perfect base color on which to layer pops of color and pattern.'
6. Create a sweet spot with chocolate and caramel hues
Want to create a space that's as cute as a (chocolate) button? Turn to your pantry for interior inspiration.
Despite what you've heard, a bit of sugar and spice and all things nice can make for a gender neutral nursery. By combining brown polka dot wall stickers with cookie-colored bunting, you can create a nursing spot that looks good enough to eat!
Naturally, you'll want to swap wooden spoons for wood decor, so a cot, wall hangings and sustainable toys made from this material are a recipe for success.
But if wood flooring seems a touch too much, soften the space with creamy cushions and soft marshmallow-textured rugs for baby to crawl on.
Don't forget about your bedroom window ideas too! A wooden blind may be a good idea, but be sure to keep the cord out of reach to keep your little one safe from a strangulation risk.
Instead, a nutty-hued blackout blind is an affordable way to keep baby sleeping through the night without sunlight waking them too early. Honeycomb blinds are also great to keep your cubs cool too.
7. Add yellow for a bright and uplifting scheme
If you want to add a bright scheme to your ray of sunshine's space, then yellow should be your color of choice.
Adding sunny notes without the harmful UV rays, yellow is a color that has powerful psychological benefits. Despite baby's brain not being fully developed, we shouldn't underestimate the joy this shade can bring.
Renowned Applied Color Psychology practitioner, consultant, mentor and trainer Karen Haller (opens in new tab) says: ‘Yellow is the color that lifts our spirits and our mood; it’s how we feel when the sun is shining. It fills us with optimism and confidence.’
Incorporate yellow into your scheme in areas that baby will focus on. This may be a bedroom lighting idea on the ceiling, a chair or cushion for where feeding will take place or a gallery wall at a height where he or she will be comforted.
8. Use stencils to create a sensory sensation
If you want to create an environment that's as unique as your new offspring, stencils are a great way to add interest to their bedroom wall decor.
From tree trunks to meadow flowers, bold lettering or farm animals, this paint technique can add a color pop to a small kid's bedroom design. Create a feature wall with all-over stenciling on the nearside of the cot or choose one area to focus on when they get up in the middle of the night.
When deciding on your paint type, there are lots of different finishes to choose from. While glow-in-the-dark paint may entertain baby in the early hours, chalky paint will add vintage charm and a textural contrast for them to touch.
Do be sure to keep the space well-ventilated whilst painting and try to shop for low VOC, non-toxic emulsion.
9. Make a biophilic scheme work for your babe
When planning for a baby, we may have to make some sacrifices when it comes to travel. Whether that's a long-haul vacation or an out-of-state weekend break, sometimes it's best to stay indoors.
So if you're craving a taste of the tropics, you may have to improvise with your little tikes environment. By adding palm trees and cheesecloth plants, you can create a dreamy destination for milk-drinking and dribbling.
The advantages of a biophilic scheme isn't just for adults. Other than adding visual stimulus into this space, the best plants for bedrooms can oxygenate the room and of course eliminate carbon dioxide. However, be sure to remove these plants out of the room come bedtime where they'll produce carbon dioxide and use up oxygen.
If that seems too much of a faff - then go faux. Fake plants and flowers do a great job of adding sophistication to this space. But, be sure to clean petals and leaves regularly as they can collect dust.
10. Revive a room with budget-friendly rainbow details
If you've blown your budget on an enormous order of diapers from Amazon or expensive nursing equipment - we've got you covered.
By choosing a multicolored colored theme, you can create a brand-new bedroom on a budget. Because this scheme is quite busy, you'll want to add color sparingly. Go over-the-top and you'll create a nauseating scheme that even Willy Wonka wants no part of.
But, staying on the candy theme, a few soft furnishings sprinkled here and there can contribute to a saccharine space for your sweet. Affordable and sound-proofing, a colorful rug can add instant impact to this room. Alternatively add a pop-up seating spot with bold beanbags and funky footstools.
Got a few spare sample pots of paint. Create confetti-inspired wall decor to celebrate your new addition to the world!
11. Beginning with a neutral backdrop
A simple, neutral color is the perfect place to start a unisex nursery or kid's bedroom. Interior designer and founder of the Slovakian Mimesis Studio, Marek Cegledy, agrees that this is the best place to begin. He says:
'Children’s bedrooms are an ever-changing thing and neutral color palettes are far easier to adjust to a child's ongoing development. We wouldn’t usually totally refurbish our child’s bedroom every five years to fit with their advancing age, so a gender-neutral beige or cream base is more practical – both for the child and the parent!'
12. Incorporate block colours
Once you have got that blank canvas you can start adding pops of color. Try and avoid the typical pinks and blues and go for less gendered colors – we love oranges or sage greens. Aarti Popat (opens in new tab), an interior designer, has a few suggestions when it comes to color. She says:
'I don’t believe in the age-old belief that boys like blue and girls like pink. I have both and I try to steer them away from gender stereotypes – lead as you want them to believe. Colors that I feel work well with gender-neutral spaces are oranges, greys and even purples. Using different depths of the colors works nicely too.'
13. Add interesting, even educational patterns
'If you’re keen to steer away from a football-themed boy’s den or a fairy-princess girl’s paradise – we recommend incorporating trending bedroom designs with educational interests such as wildlife, the alphabet and world cultures, that will help to encourage learning early on and help eliminate enforced stereotypes.'
14. Spread inclusive messaging in the form of prints
'According to the Pinterest trend report, search around ‘Inclusive Educational Posters’ has increased by 91% since last year.
Though life-lesson wall hangings and slogan messaging are renowned for being a little cheesy – we believe that spreading positive energy only encourages positive opinions, ones that can really benefit your child’s attitude towards life.
Just please avoid anything along the lines of ‘live, laugh, love’...
15. DIY a wall mural in a gender-neutral
A wall mural is perfect for adding some interest to a nursery. You can DIY this look so easily too, all you need is some masking tape and some paint. Just create your mountain shapes with masking tape and paint in between the lines – easy peasy and you can go with whatever colors you like.
16. Add coziness to gender-neutral nursery with a canopy
Canopies are all over Instagram at the moment, and they are a lovely thing to add to a kid's room. The look great and add some texture and coziness to the room, but they also are good for creating the perfect nap space and even a den as your child gets older. Loving this brown/orange color scheme too, perfect if you are trying to avoid pink and blue.
17. Go digital with a remote-controlled blind
Whether bottle or breast, when nursing a young child, you may feel like you need a few more hands to complete the errand.
Settling a baby is no easy feat, so you'll want to be equipped with an armory of gadgets, gizmos and patience for the feeds.
This remote-controlled blind from Hillary's (opens in new tab) can stop light shining in your little one's eyes, without the need to manually manipulate the cord.
How do you decorate a nursery when you don't know the gender?
Natalie Lockwood, an Interior Designer based in Yorkshire, has shared her thoughts on why she thinks moving away from ingrained gender conventions is a good idea.
She says: 'Once you begin to think about the design of a child's bedroom or playroom without gender stereotypes, you have the freedom to create a much more inspiring, calming and interesting environment for your child.
'Using themes and ideas based on nature, animals and the world that surrounds us is a great way of doing this.'
Progressive, sophisticated and adaptable, gender neutral nursery ideas will save you time, money, and quite frankly a headache that you definitely don't need. This is certainly the case if the idea of a gender reveal makes you cringe or you simply want to keep the ultrasound results up wraps.
And with the world slowing becoming a more inclusive space for our kids to grow up in, we're seeing gender stereotypes being dropped and replaced with unisex fashion, innovative ideas and increased equality.
If learning and education begins in the home, then why not remove the sex-based assumptions right from the start of your newborn's journey into the world? Aside from being forward-thinking, taking a unisex decorating approach to a nursery can save you dollars, too – especially if you choose bring along another sibling later down the line.
From zoo-inspired nursery ideas to marvelous monochrome schemes, we venture away from the notion that blue rooms are for boys and pink rooms for girls. With interior designers creative inclusive solutions, diversity never looked so designer.
So banish the Barbie pink and superhero blue for a scheme that revokes old-fashioned gender roles.
Gender neutral nursery ideas
1. Create a boujee black and white scheme
Preparing for a surprise-sex birth can be a challenge at the best of times. From gender-neutral greens to mood-boosting yellows, cool greys and awesome oranges - choosing what color scheme is best for your nursery can be an overwhelming experience.
So why not take the confusion out of the equation by choosing a monochromatic scheme? Although a black bedroom design may be an unusual decision for your baby, the contrast with clean white decor will give your little one a luxury room to have their first sleeps in.
Give your sweet a sophisticated scheme by adding in metallic brass fixtures and minimally framed mirrors and accessories. But, for a daring scheme that grows with your mini-me, animal print can add lots of personality. Contrary to popular belief, leopard and Dalmatian design can be used in a boy's bedroom idea too!
And don't underestimate the power of stylish storage and built-in wardrobe ideas. Although easier said than done, by keeping your kid's bedroom tidy, you can create an expensive look and feel for less. So look to clever ways to hide away toys and clothes with clever bedroom storage ideas.
Peter Erlandsson, Co-Owner of String Furniture says: “ Keeping your child’s bedroom orderly and clutter-free can be a challenge, but simply installing the right storage can help to resolve this.
2. Jazz up this scheme jungle-inspired theme
The stork has delivered, but how do you create a fly makeover?
Wife of British McFly star, Tom Fletcher and more recently crowned queen of reality TV show, 'I'm a Celebrity...get me out of here', Giovanni Fletcher shows us how she created a jungle-inspired scheme.
Working with Wayfair (opens in new tab), she opted for a base palette of soft grey bedroom design with muted pastels to create a calming environment for both mum and baby.
They then off-set this neutrality will hints of mint and egg-yolk yellow to make the scheme pop. An upholstered nursing chair and footstool were introduced for a pop-up place to feed and cuddle.
She says: 'I wanted a fresh, clean space that felt homely and calming.
'The jungle themed wallpaper is stunning and adds so much to the space, while also being neutral and calming. I really love a statement design.
'The tipi tent is gorgeous – such a unique but affordable touch and I can really imagine the baby lying in there and taking it all in.
'There are also so many textures to explore with the cushions, throws and rugs and the muted pastel shades help make it all look so beautiful.
'I’m also really happy with the wardrobe and changing unit. Babies come with lots of stuff - and being the third child, this baby is inheriting a fair few clothes, so it’s good to have somewhere to put it all.
'I love the design of both these items as they feel really unique.'
3. Go wild with a western scheme
Howdy partner! If you want to create a scheme that's as cool as a cowboy, then look no further than a western-inspired space.
Starting off with a brown and beige space, add suede, leather and other natural materials, to create a retro scheme that takes its inspo from the seventies.
To avoid the space from looking boringly brown, add boho bedroom ideas such as fringe and tassel, macrame and colorful embroidered accessories. Just be sure to keep choking hazards out of reach of children.
Wooden crates traditionally used to transport fruit and veg make for great toy storage solutions too. And, if you want to go ace-high with your accessories, look for plush cacti, snakes and horse-shaped playthings.
4. Show your love with inclusive messages
Though your tot isn't expected to read until their at least a toddler, bold text and typography is a great way to tackle a gender-neutral scheme that's as sassy and stylish as you hope your youngster will become.
According to a Pinterest (opens in new tab) trend report, searches for ‘Inclusive Educational Posters’ have shot by 91% in 2020. Though life-lesson wall hangings and slogans are renowned for being a little corny, spreading good energy only encourages positive opinions. And these can really benefit your child’s attitude towards life, their pastoral skills and overall self-development.
Aarti Popat (opens in new tab), Interior Designer, Mentor and Consultant builds on this saying:
'The trend for gender-neutral spaces comes hand in hand with our growing understanding of children's emotional needs in the early years and how their environment can help to stimulate and inspire them.'
By introducing a gallery wall or shelfie with framed prints or textual wall hangings, you can create a space for meaningful messages. However you execute this little learning opportunity, be sure that your frames are securely fixed to your space, out of reach of grabbing hands and placed above head height to avoid injury.
5. Elevate your space with exotic elephants
When Love Island star and influencer Dani Dyer (opens in new tab) was expecting her first child, she turned to Wayfair (opens in new tab) to create a whimsical nesting space that was calming and homely. A gender neutral nursery design was important for Dani as she didn't announce baby boy Santiago's sex later into her pregnancy.
Combining a peel-and-stick elephant printed children's wallpaper design with twinkling star curtains and beautiful bunting, the Essex celeb wanted to create a spiritual space that would settle her baby. Talking over the finer interior details she says:
'The draped canopy and fairy lights are definitely my favorite pieces. They have a lovely energy and the lights add a soothing glow to the room.'
Paying homage to British cleanfluencer Mrs Hinch (opens in new tab), Dani said that she was inspired by Sophie Hincliffe's love of grey, but added cool mint to create a fresh green bedroom design.
According to Wayfair's Resident Style Advisor, Nadia McCowan Hill, she says: 'The soft dove grey palette creates a fresh and calming foundation and is the perfect base color on which to layer pops of color and pattern.'
6. Create a sweet spot with chocolate and caramel hues
Want to create a space that's as cute as a (chocolate) button? Turn to your pantry for interior inspiration.
Despite what you've heard, a bit of sugar and spice and all things nice can make for a gender neutral nursery. By combining brown polka dot wall stickers with cookie-colored bunting, you can create a nursing spot that looks good enough to eat!
Naturally, you'll want to swap wooden spoons for wood decor, so a cot, wall hangings and sustainable toys made from this material are a recipe for success.
But if wood flooring seems a touch too much, soften the space with creamy cushions and soft marshmallow-textured rugs for baby to crawl on.
Don't forget about your bedroom window ideas too! A wooden blind may be a good idea, but be sure to keep the cord out of reach to keep your little one safe from a strangulation risk.
Instead, a nutty-hued blackout blind is an affordable way to keep baby sleeping through the night without sunlight waking them too early. Honeycomb blinds are also great to keep your cubs cool too.
7. Add yellow for a bright and uplifting scheme
If you want to add a bright scheme to your ray of sunshine's space, then yellow should be your color of choice.
Adding sunny notes without the harmful UV rays, yellow is a color that has powerful psychological benefits. Despite baby's brain not being fully developed, we shouldn't underestimate the joy this shade can bring.
Renowned Applied Color Psychology practitioner, consultant, mentor and trainer Karen Haller (opens in new tab) says: ‘Yellow is the color that lifts our spirits and our mood; it’s how we feel when the sun is shining. It fills us with optimism and confidence.’
Incorporate yellow into your scheme in areas that baby will focus on. This may be a bedroom lighting idea on the ceiling, a chair or cushion for where feeding will take place or a gallery wall at a height where he or she will be comforted.
8. Use stencils to create a sensory sensation
If you want to create an environment that's as unique as your new offspring, stencils are a great way to add interest to their bedroom wall decor.
From tree trunks to meadow flowers, bold lettering or farm animals, this paint technique can add a color pop to a small kid's bedroom design. Create a feature wall with all-over stenciling on the nearside of the cot or choose one area to focus on when they get up in the middle of the night.
When deciding on your paint type, there are lots of different finishes to choose from. While glow-in-the-dark paint may entertain baby in the early hours, chalky paint will add vintage charm and a textural contrast for them to touch.
Do be sure to keep the space well-ventilated whilst painting and try to shop for low VOC, non-toxic emulsion.
9. Make a biophilic scheme work for your babe
When planning for a baby, we may have to make some sacrifices when it comes to travel. Whether that's a long-haul vacation or an out-of-state weekend break, sometimes it's best to stay indoors.
So if you're craving a taste of the tropics, you may have to improvise with your little tikes environment. By adding palm trees and cheesecloth plants, you can create a dreamy destination for milk-drinking and dribbling.
The advantages of a biophilic scheme isn't just for adults. Other than adding visual stimulus into this space, the best plants for bedrooms can oxygenate the room and of course eliminate carbon dioxide. However, be sure to remove these plants out of the room come bedtime where they'll produce carbon dioxide and use up oxygen.
If that seems too much of a faff - then go faux. Fake plants and flowers do a great job of adding sophistication to this space. But, be sure to clean petals and leaves regularly as they can collect dust.
10. Revive a room with budget-friendly rainbow details
If you've blown your budget on an enormous order of diapers from Amazon or expensive nursing equipment - we've got you covered.
By choosing a multicolored colored theme, you can create a brand-new bedroom on a budget. Because this scheme is quite busy, you'll want to add color sparingly. Go over-the-top and you'll create a nauseating scheme that even Willy Wonka wants no part of.
But, staying on the candy theme, a few soft furnishings sprinkled here and there can contribute to a saccharine space for your sweet. Affordable and sound-proofing, a colorful rug can add instant impact to this room. Alternatively add a pop-up seating spot with bold beanbags and funky footstools.
Got a few spare sample pots of paint. Create confetti-inspired wall decor to celebrate your new addition to the world!
11. Beginning with a neutral backdrop
A simple, neutral color is the perfect place to start a unisex nursery or kid's bedroom. Interior designer and founder of the Slovakian Mimesis Studio, Marek Cegledy, agrees that this is the best place to begin. He says:
'Children’s bedrooms are an ever-changing thing and neutral color palettes are far easier to adjust to a child's ongoing development. We wouldn’t usually totally refurbish our child’s bedroom every five years to fit with their advancing age, so a gender-neutral beige or cream base is more practical – both for the child and the parent!'
12. Incorporate block colours
Once you have got that blank canvas you can start adding pops of color. Try and avoid the typical pinks and blues and go for less gendered colors – we love oranges or sage greens. Aarti Popat (opens in new tab), an interior designer, has a few suggestions when it comes to color. She says:
'I don’t believe in the age-old belief that boys like blue and girls like pink. I have both and I try to steer them away from gender stereotypes – lead as you want them to believe. Colors that I feel work well with gender-neutral spaces are oranges, greys and even purples. Using different depths of the colors works nicely too.'
13. Add interesting, even educational patterns
'If you’re keen to steer away from a football-themed boy’s den or a fairy-princess girl’s paradise – we recommend incorporating trending bedroom designs with educational interests such as wildlife, the alphabet and world cultures, that will help to encourage learning early on and help eliminate enforced stereotypes.'
14. Spread inclusive messaging in the form of prints
'According to the Pinterest trend report, search around ‘Inclusive Educational Posters’ has increased by 91% since last year.
Though life-lesson wall hangings and slogan messaging are renowned for being a little cheesy – we believe that spreading positive energy only encourages positive opinions, ones that can really benefit your child’s attitude towards life.
Just please avoid anything along the lines of ‘live, laugh, love’...
15. DIY a wall mural in a gender-neutral
A wall mural is perfect for adding some interest to a nursery. You can DIY this look so easily too, all you need is some masking tape and some paint. Just create your mountain shapes with masking tape and paint in between the lines – easy peasy and you can go with whatever colors you like.
16. Add coziness to gender-neutral nursery with a canopy
Canopies are all over Instagram at the moment, and they are a lovely thing to add to a kid's room. The look great and add some texture and coziness to the room, but they also are good for creating the perfect nap space and even a den as your child gets older. Loving this brown/orange color scheme too, perfect if you are trying to avoid pink and blue.
17. Go digital with a remote-controlled blind
Whether bottle or breast, nursing a child can be a challenge. From feeding to cuddles, soothing and putting them down to sleep - it's no easy feat.
If you're finding yourself in need of a bit of support, you may need a bit of technology in your armory to free up your hands.
This remote-controlled blind from Thomas Sanderson (opens in new tab) will allow you to adjust the blinds without the need to manually manipulate a cord. Or, use the app to open and close the window treatment without entering the room.
How do you decorate a nursery when you don't know the gender?
Natalie Lockwood, an Interior Designer based in Yorkshire, has shared her thoughts on why she thinks moving away from ingrained gender conventions is a good idea.
She says: 'Once you begin to think about the design of a child's bedroom or playroom without gender stereotypes, you have the freedom to create a much more inspiring, calming and interesting environment for your child.
'Using themes and ideas based on nature, animals and the world that surrounds us is a great way of doing this.'
