Notes on Coded Decor
To theme or not to theme!? As a devoted maximalist, collector, and color enthusiast, I think you know where I stand. I love a themed nursery. Yet I also know it’s easily overdone. Here are three ways to stay on point, while also on-theme.
Make it broad: Choose a theme with depth and variety: safari, garden, seaside, or storybook. This will afford you creative leeway in the first instance, and will give you an easy off-ramp when you’re ready to redecorate.
Let color lead: Over nearly 8 years in business, I’ve created artwork for every style of nursery: Nautical, Woodland, Chinoiserie, Dogs(!)...and what the best of these examples have in common, is that they lead with color: choosing a palette of 2-3 tones that sets the stage for the room. The palette gives cohesion to the space, and lends some helpful creative constraints to the design process.
Limit the literal! Reserve explicitly on-theme motifs for three to four distinct moments, such as the artwork, the bedding, a decorative throw pillow, a keepsake on the shelf, and let everything else provide texture and tone.
Design for growth. Keep the investment pieces—like furniture and rugs—timeless, and express your theme in what can be easily swapped out: linens, mobiles, and small accessories. The room can then evolve gracefully from nursery to toddler room to bedroom.
Anchor the room with real art: Original artwork and/or limited edition prints will retain their value, delight their viewers, contribute to your theme, and grow alongside your child. (Translation: no AI art, please.)
Credit: Elizabeth Hannah Design, Jennifer Lavelle Photography