With Harper Lee’s Go Set a Watchman hitting shelves and Harry Potter making a comeback on stage, we’ve got classic literary tales on the brain. For all you book nerd mamas-to-be out there, using one of these favorite tales as nursery inspiration will help foster a love for reading in your little one and up your Pinterest game. After you pick your book-themed baby name, choose your favorite story-inspired nursery theme from the list below and start nesting!
1. Where the Wild Things Are: This charming nursery takes inspiration from Maurice Sendak’s beloved children’s story. The pastel colors and fabrics keep the room gender neutral, while the natural textures and exotic stuffed animals keep things a little wild. Let the wild rumpus start! (via Design Stiles)
2. Peter Pan: For any little boy (or girl) who doesn’t want to grow up, this adorable Peter Pan nursery has nautical, English and other small details that pay homage to J.M. Barrie’s classic story. The nods to Peter and his saga are subtle, keeping this nursery classy, not kitschy. And there’s not a sharp corner — or hook — in sight. (via Project Nursery)
3. Harry Potter: Many HP-obsessed fans that grew up with the Harry Potter series are now starting families of their own and turning to their favorite series for nursery inspiration. Aside from the magic that comes with such a fun theme, your little one will grow up surrounded by characters that are brave, intelligent and kind. If you’re a diehard fan, base your color scheme on your preferred Hogwarts house. (via Project Nursery)
4. The Secret Garden: This garden-themed room is filled to the brim with special details. The gorgeous, garden-inspired wallpaper and fresh flowers and greenery throughout turn this standard room into a magical place for any child. (via My Domaine)
5. Shel Silverstein Nursery: Shel Silverstein’s anthology of popular poems and their illustrations have been featured in many bedtime stories. Classics like The Giving Tree and Where the Sidewalk Ends offer endless inspiration for your newest addition’s room. We love the framed illustrations in this charming nursery. (via Amy Meier Design)
6. The Hungry Caterpillar: For parents that love to make a bold statement, this Hungry Caterpillar-inspired nursery can be adapted for a boy or girl. Add this felt mobile ($90) from Etsy for another playful tribute to Eric Carle’s story. (via Rosenberry Rooms)
7. Winnie the Pooh: Who doesn’t love Winnie the Pooh? This 100-Acre Wood decal ($26) is super sweet and makes us nostalgic for childhood. Paired with the honey-yellow walls and a neutral palette, this space is fit for our fave silly little bear. (via Amazon)
8. Curious George Nursery: This curious little monkey went on many adventures with the Man with the Yellow Hat and could inspire wanderlust in your little one as well. The signature Curious George blue and yellow keep this nursery cheery and playful. (via Pottery Barn Kids)
9. The Tale of Peter Rabbit: Beatrix Potter’s timeless illustrations add a whimsical touch to this elegant nursery inspired by Peter Rabbit. The leaf green rocker maintains the woodland theme and is perfect for reading about the curious bunny to your little one. (via Decorating Den)
10. Dr. Seuss Nursery: We couldn’t talk about literary nurseries without including Dr. Seuss. His whimsical worlds jumpstart the imaginations of children everywhere, and his fun rhymes are contagious. Bright primary colors lend themselves well to these fun nurseries. Expecting twins? Thing 1 and Thing 2 Halloween outfits may be in your future. (via ImgMonster)
11. Moby Dick: For those who prefer literary classics, this sweet nautical nursery pays homage to Captain Ahab and quest for revenge against Moby Dick. Soft, natural fabrics and a color palette of blues and grays make this nursery the perfect environment for a baby boy. Bonus points if you call him Ishmael. (via Apartment Therapy)
12. Paddington Bear Nursery: Paddington made his first appearance in 1958, but recently hit the big screen this past January. For those Anglophile parents who want a subtle nod to their favorite country, a Paddington Bear theme is a great option. He is quintessentially British and perfectly matches Union Jack colors. Fun fact: This little bear was named after the Paddington train station in London. (via Jane Churchill)
What childhood storybook are you using for your nursery theme? Share with us in the comment section below!