Becoming a mum for the first time (or even subsequent) is a time for excitement and anticipation. How will life change? What do you need to do? Will you be able to continue to do certain things? What do I need to buy? (Not everything you see!).
As everyone is thinking babies at the moment – starting with the future Queen of England – we are too, and one of the fun things about being an expectant mum is getting the baby’s room ready. Next month at the Royal Exhibition Centre, Melbourne, we're presenting Style Lab in conjunction with Life Instyle & Kids Instyle which will showcase the latest homeware trends and products.
We can’t wait to see the new collections from all the brands and designers exhibiting at Kids Instyle. We’ve developed a great concept for a kid’s room which will be full of colour and texture and resonate with a spirit of adventure.
Until then, here are our top five tips for creating the perfect space for your little one without breaking the bank.
1. Keep it simple
A neutral colour palette is the key to a great nursery because you can subtly or dramatically change the room by adding cost-effective accessories like bed linen, cushions, sleeping bags, snuggle blankets and throws.
We love: Little Pie Street
2. Good storage
There’s a lot of paraphernalia that comes with kids so good storage is essential. Invest in something that can adapt as your child grows with shelves, drawers and hanging space so you can hide the contents behind closed doors.
We love: IKEA’s Stuva range is perfect because it has a multitude of options and colourways.
3. Something to look at
Create an artistic focal point in the nursery with wall stickers. When they’ve served their purpose they can be removed easily and you won’t have to repaint the wall.
We love: Love Mae. It's a charming online store which has a great selection of fabric wall stickers.
4. Get rugged-up
Add a splash of colour and texture to the floor with a statement rug. They always look great. Make sure you get something that can be machine-washed. Life's little accidents will happen and you don't want to be concerned about just throwing it in the washing machine and leaving it to dry on the clothes line.
We love: The wonderful colour of the recycled rugs from Bonnie & Neil (also a favourite of Trixie & Johnno from 'The Block') or the 100% cotton dhurries from Armadillo & Co.
5. They won't be a baby for long!
Make your budget go further by buying key pieces of furniture that are versatile. For example, many cot styles adapt into junior beds and the right chest of drawers can double as a change table.
We love: Dwell Studio's collection. They offer a complete range of simple, contemporary nusery furniture which is functional and stylish. If you prefer something more traditional, check out Incy Interiors.
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Further information about Greenhouse Interiors Style Lab at Life Instyle and Kids Instyle is available here.