How to Decorate a Gender-Neutral Nursery

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Are you waiting to learn the gender of your baby? Here are some fun decorating ideas to welcome your new girl ... or boy!

The nursery will be the center of your new baby's world. Within its walls, infants are nurtured, parents rest in comfy chairs or rockers, and families gather to enjoy their little ones.

Many parents design their nursery based on the gender of their expected child, while others wait for life's ultimate surprise. Not knowing whether you're having a boy or girl can make decorating a challenge, but designing a unisex nursery is also great fun. The decision to wait creates an intimacy between the parents and an array of opportunities for your special nursery.

First Thing's First

Before beginning to design or renovate your nursery, find a starting place. Parents often choose a unique color palette or intriguing fabric to create this most special space.

Color is a wonderful way to begin your design ideas, especially when designing a unisex nursery. Combine colors and textures, focusing on a soothing palette of blues and soft yellows.

Yellow makes a wonderful backdrop for your nursery; pick a sunny hue for your walls. Introduce blue in hand-painted furnishings, accessories, and linens. And be bold with blue—it's not just for boys anymore. There are fun new shades with a touch of periwinkle and turquoise that are great for boys and girls.

All the Trimmings

Next, turn to fun fabrics to add interest to your design. Pair cheerful toile, colorful paisley, or gingham fabrics with plush chenille when selecting crib bedding and upholstered furnishings.

Don't shy away from mixing multiple fabrics. You can use different fabric combinations as another opportunity to be daring with your decorating.