Choosing a nursery theme is one of the most exciting parts of preparing for your little’s arrival. And once you’ve got that perfect theme, it makes choosing things like crib bedding and room decor so much easier.

Not sure where to start? The good news is there are tons of great themes out there. Here are ten of our faves, including classic themes and some more unexpected ones too.

Florals

Use floral prints and botanical elements to create a natural and calming atmosphere. You could also add a garden scene mural or incorporate real plants into the decor. Play around with including different floral patterns, shades of pink, and unique textures to elevate your floral nursery.

Think of adding pops of color using bold vibrant floral patterns as focal points in the room; curtains, rug, wallpaper or even floral bedding. For a personalized touch, add the baby's name or initials in a frame made out of fresh pressed flowers!

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Safari

The most popular theme according to parents we asked (and for good reason!) Use animal prints and images of elephants, lions, giraffes, and other African animals to create a wild and adventurous atmosphere.

Think of choosing an animal theme (a specific animal or group of animals); popular options include, woodland animals, safari animals, farm animals, or jungle animals. Then choose your color palette based on your animal theme. If choosing a jungle theme, you may opt for vibrant bright greens and pops of tropical colors. If you opt for a safari-themed nursery, we would recommend earthy tones like browns, greens, yellows, and tan.

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Celestial

Blast off with an outer space theme for your baby boy's nursery. Use navy blue, black, and silver, and add elements like stars, planets, and spaceships for a cosmic feel.

Thinking of designing a dreamy space for your little? Blast off into an outer space theme for your baby boy's nursery. Select a color palette of soothing, enchanting colors like deep blues, purples, silver or gold. These colors evoke a sense of the night sky and celestial bodies. Don't forget to add some celestial-themed wallpaper, paintings, pictures, or fabrics/textures. Play around with different patterns including moons, stars, clouds, and space-themed characters for a cosmic feel.

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Woodland

Perfect for parents who love exploring the outdoors, and a great gender-neutral option. Think forest animals like owls, foxes, bears, and deer.

Choose colors that reflect the natural elements of woodland. Earthy tones like greens, browns, and gray work well for the walls, furniture, and artwork. Don't be afraid to pop some colors of deep oranges, reds, other shades of green (solids or patterns!) in bedding, sheets, curtains, stuffed animals and other baby necessities like swaddles!

Use soft lighting to create a cozy and calming ambiance. Choose table lamps with warm hues or string lights to mimic fireflies.

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Princess

Welcome your little princess home with the royal treatment. Designing a princess-themed nursery can create a magical and enchanting space fit for a little princess.

Use pinks, purples, and other pastel colors, and add touches of gold or silver. (Or go full-on Disney Princess with beloved characters like Ariel, Belle, and more!) Look for furniture that evoke a princess theme. Think canopy crib with sheer curtains or a bed adorned with a princess-themed headboard. Consider furniture with elegant curves, ornate details, or crystal accents. Lace or tulle can add a touch of elegance to the room.

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Tropical

Ahola little one! Welcome your new bundle of joy with a tropical nursery. Think pineapples, flamingos and palm trees for this baby girl theme. Cover the room in shades of greens, blues, yellows, pinks and coral as your base color. Add pops of pattern with tropical-themed wallpaper, wall decals or artwork.

Opt for natural looking furniture to complement the natural vibe of the tropics. Lighter woods such as bamboo or rattan would work well.

Add tropical-inspired accessories to complete the look. Hang artwork or framed prints featuring tropical landscapes, animals, or flowers on the walls. Incorporate potted plants or artificial palm trees to bring a sense of nature into the space. Hang woven baskets on the walls for additional storage and texture.

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Bohemian

From Coachella to crib shopping! Designing a bohemian nursery can create a whimsical and eclectic space for your baby.

Choose warm, earthy colors like terracotta, mustard yellow, dusty pink, sage green and indigo blue as your base. Consider adding texture to the walls with techniques like faux brick or wood paneling, or you can use textured wallpaper with natural patterns. You can also create a focal point with a large macramé wall hanging or a woven tapestry.

Look for bedding sets, curtains, and rugs made of organic cotton, linen, or macramé. Incorporate various patterns such as floral, geometric, or tribal prints to add visual interest.

Hang dream catchers, macramé wall hangings, or tapestries on the walls. Place woven baskets, wicker storage bins, or vintage suitcases for storage and decoration.

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Literature

If you’re a book lover, create a theme based on your favorite children’s book. For example, a Winnie the Pooh theme might have honeycomb accents and plush animal toys. A Harry Potter theme could feature Hogwarts house colors, Golden Snitch accents and a stuffed owl.

Choose warm, cozy colors and wooden furniture as your base. You can then add pops of colors depending on the book theme you choose! Consider adding pictures or framed posters of storybook characters to bring the theme to life - you can be as subtle (or not) as you would like!

Look for bedding sets, curtains, and rugs in the color pattern of your choice. Think about adding different textures and patterns (or solids!) to add dimension to the room.

And maybe most importantly, don't forget to create a little reading corner! Add your rocking chair next to a bookshelf and add your favorite books with a combination of little stuffed animals, frames or decorative pieces.

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Travel

Can’t wait to get a passport for your babe? Introduce them to a world of adventure with maps, photos of favorite destinations, and (baby-safe) local souvenirs. Throw in a few airplanes and hot air balloons and they’re off!

For a light and airy travel-themed nursery, choose a color palette that is a combination of neutrals like white and tan, with pops of color like blue, green (or even pink!). Consider adding texture to one of the walls with techniques like wood paneling or you can use mural-themed wallpaper (think a map!). Don't be afraid to add large wall stickers with fun sayings or pictures like, "Oh the places you'll go!"

Look for bedding sets, crib sheets, curtains, and rugs that add a pop of color to your neutral-themed room. Pull these pops of color from your mural-themed wallpaper, framed posters, or favorite pictures. Incorporate unique shelving that replicate mountains, airplanes, boats, or beaches!

Place woven baskets, wicker storage bins, or vintage suitcases for storage and decoration. Don't forget to include a globe!

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Designing a nursery is an exciting journey filled with endless possibilities. Whether you choose a floral theme, an animal theme, a celestial theme, or incorporate a mix of all of the above, the key is to create a space that reflects your style and nurtures your little one's growth. These are just a few of the countless nursery themes to choose from. And if you’re not a theme kind of parent, Neutrals or an Abstract Color scheme can be stunning too. Remember to prioritize safety, embrace your creativity, and have fun in the process.

As you embark on this beautiful adventure of designing a nursery, may you create a space that not only delights your baby's senses but also becomes a haven for love, comfort, and cherished moments. Your nursery will be a place where dreams are dreamed, stories are told, and memories are made.

Now it's your turn! Share your designs with us on social media using the hashtag #adenandanaisnursery. Happy designing!