Making Space in Your Home for Baby

By Kimberly Ward, principal of Kimberly and Cameron Interiors in Atlanta and author of design blog Pink Eggshell

Atlanta is a wonderland of quaint little neighborhoods with captivating homes. I often spend my weekends browsing through these neighborhoods trying to get a sense of their history and culture. On one such trip I found myself on the West End historic home tour.

Over the past few years the area has undergone a revitalization. Young couples are moving in and restoring homes to their original glory. One of my favorite homes on the tour belonged to a young couple that was expecting their first child. Although the entire house was beautifully restored, it was the nursery that really caught my attention. I was initially drawn to the furniture and the unique finishes that had been applied to the crib and cabinet. But upon further inspection, the pink-and-blue color scheme truly made the nursery special.

The expectant way in which the nursery was planned and executed caused me to wonder just how many people are remodeling a room to accommodate a new child. Let’s face it; it’s not always feasible to buy a bigger home. So what do you do when you have to make a space for baby right where you are?

• If you are remodeling, first decide on a space. Some historic homes have limitations on structural changes so adding a second level might not be an option. Hire a contractor who is familiar with the codes in your area. This will ensure that whatever you choose to do will enhance the beauty of the home and not annoy your neighbors. If you are not adding an addition, but simply converting the home office into a nursery, still take the time to make a plan. Again, bringing in a contractor is key.
• You will need to consider paint both before and after construction. Before because if the house is older than 1974, then there might be lead concerns and after because now more than ever, it’s easy to choose a kid-friendly low-voc paint.
• Next layout the space. Every good nursery needs a place for sleeping, eating, changing… and for you to stare into your baby’s eyes for hours on end. In an older home, where space is a premium, some furniture might have to serve double-duty. The size and scale of the furniture also has to be considered. Remember, things were a lot smaller in years past; so in order not to crowd the room, consider ceiling height, door and window openings and overall room layout when planning your nursery.
• The fun part about living in an older home with charm is that you can fill it with charming accents and accessories. Don’t be afraid to look for antiques to incorporate into the space. Antique doesn’t have to mean fancy. Mid-century modern pieces work well in older homes for those who want a more streamlined look.

What are some of your tips for designing a nursery? Let us know by leaving a comment.