When did being a baby get so *glam*? Lately, we’ve been noticing nurseries that check off every box on our own personal decor wishlists (well, except for an adult-sized bed). From Pottery Barn’s Modern Baby collection, which masters on-trend styles like mid-century and boho, to celeb nursery makeovers that look more like a boutique hotel than a Gymboree, this new approach to decorating for the littles feels very grown-up. And the wall treatments are no exception: According to Sue Wadden, director of color marketing for Sherwin Williams, modern and moody neutrals are quickly becoming the most popular paint colors for baby’s room.
Deep, dark hues might seem like a far cry from the pastels usually associated with newborns, but that’s exactly what makes them so refreshing. “Accent walls in dark colors to complement neutral color schemes have been increasing in popularity,” says Wadden. “Colors like navy and charcoal gray make a room feel cozy and give small rooms a sense of depth.” We love how these unexpected shades pack a punch, even in a minuscule space. Wadden recommends a blue-tinged tone like Mineral Gray for those hoping to get the look.
For parents who want a more subtle, serene vibe, a clean base like Snowbound lets accent furnishings really pop. “Neutral gray, beige, or off-white colors in a nursery are versatile and can fit many different styles, departing from the traditional pastel palettes of the past,” Wadden explains. To keep things interesting, she suggests parents “add visual dimension to a contemporary neutral room with varied textures, such as knitted throw blankets, a fuzzy rug, and patterned pillows.”
If “less is more” isn’t your cup of tea, Wadden notes that graphic elements are also trending. “More parents-to-be are even choosing to paint an accent wall in a darker color with stripes or a geometric pattern to add a focal point to the space,” she explains. Bold, optic wallpaper options in black and white are becoming another appealing alternative to color-soaked walls.
These spaces prove that monochromatic schemes can be the furthest thing from boring. “While color palettes are leaning neutral, parents still want their nurseries to feel playful,” Wadden tells us. “Geometric patterns and graphic prints are a great way to add a sense of whimsy without needing to go crazy with color.” We have to agree… and we might just steal some inspo from these rooms for our own (adult) bedrooms too.
(Photos via AVE Styles, Room For Tuesday, Nothing Down About It and Room For Tuesday)
What’s your dream nursery look like? Let us know @BritandCo!
