We sat down with Tash Bradley, Director of Interior Design at Lick to chat all things nursery design.
Because choosing colours for your baby’s space is a big decision. From dreamy neutrals to bold hues, here’s everything you need to know before picking up a paintbrush.
Nursery Styling 101: Where to Start
Decorating a nursery is such an exciting time—it’s a space where you can have fun with colour in ways you might not in the rest of your home.
Moodboarding early? Absolutely. Think of it like a prenatal supplement—it’s all part of the journey.
For me, I started with a piece of artwork, a polar bear dropping jam sandwiches from a hot air balloon (obviously). That became my inspiration for the scalloped edges and soft colour palette. Whether it’s a childhood book, a special memory, or a favourite piece of art, lean into what makes you feel happy—colour is personal, and this is your chance to create a space that feels right for you and your baby.
The Best Colours for a Calming Nursery
When choosing nursery colours, low-saturation, earthy tones are your best friend. Walls are the most dominant space, so keeping them soft and muted creates a soothing environment.
Pink - The ultimate shoulder dropping colour. Pink has a physical calming effect, wrapping the room in a warm hug. (Lick Pink 01, 02, 07)
Blue - The lighter the blue, the more mentally soothing it is. Pairing a warm white with a soft blue? Chef’s kiss. (Lick Blue 15, 08)
Green - Our eyes don’t have to adjust to green, making it an instantly relaxing colour. The more earthy the tone, the softer it feels. (Lick Green 14, 13, 09, 05 for a smarter feel)
Yellow - Often overlooked, but an earthy, buttery yellow can be incredibly warm and inviting. If you love a brighter yellow, use it on a half wall to keep it balanced. (Lick Yellow 08, 05, or bold Yellow 02 for a pop of energy)
Best Gender-Neutral Colours
Looking for gender-neutral shades? Green and yellow are go-to options that pair beautifully with other tones.
Green 05 – An earthy green paired with a soft white and a rust tone are what dreams are made of.
Yellow 02 – Pairs effortlessly with primary colours (blue and red) for a cool, smart aesthetic.
Want something extra fun? Stripes are an easy way to add playfulness with a premium feel. Go hand-painted for a charming, imperfect look or find a statement wallpaper to pull it all together.
How to Make the Space Feel Fun
This is a nursery, it’s meant to be fun! A few easy ways to bring in playfulness:
- Painted Ceilings : A dreamy way to add personality.
- Bold Woodwork : Try painting a window sill or doorframe for an unexpected pop.
- Upcycled Furniture : A bright-coloured chest of drawers or bookshelf can be a standout moment.
This space is all about joy—so let your inner child lead the way.
Soft Furnishings: What Works Best?
Balance is key. If you’ve got bright walls, keep furnishings neutral (think a soft oatmeal chair). If you’ve gone for muted walls, bring in bold accents—like a rich-toned armchair or statement drawers.
How to Pick the Perfect Theme
Themes are great for inspiration, but don’t overthink it. The reality? Your nursery will evolve—fast. Gifts, books, and new baby phases won’t always fit the "theme" perfectly, so keep it loose and flexible.
📌 Pro Tip: Pinterest boards are your best friend. Save what you love, and patterns will start to emerge.
Decorating on a Budget
Secondhand is Your Best Friend. A mix of old and new adds depth and character. Plus, it’s way more affordable. Everything in my nursery? Facebook Marketplace, Etsy, and local vintage finds.
Paint is a Game-Changer. One tin can completely transform a space, whether it’s a full wall, a half-wall statement, or even just the woodwork.
Adding a Second Baby to the Space?
Quick wins to refresh the room without a full makeover:
- Change the paint colour—quick, affordable, and instantly impactful.
- Swap out cot sheets for a fresh pop of colour.
- Rearrange artwork—you already own it, and it makes the space feel brand new.
Final Thoughts
Your nursery should feel like you. Whether you go soft and serene or bold and playful, the most important thing is that it makes you happy. So trust your gut, have fun, and create a space that feels good for you and your little one.
Check out all these colours that we mentioned at www.lick.com
