Absolutely, Positively Dreamy Scandinavian Nursery Ideas Designed Just For Baby
Want a baby nursery idea that's thoughtful, serene, gender-neutral, and never goes out of style? Cue Scandi-inspired design. If you're expecting a little one, look to these 10 Scandinavian baby rooms for calm, quiet, restful, and timeless inspo.
1. Choose a Nordic-style crib.
The Scandi-style, wood-and-white crib seen in this nursery designed by Amber Lewis is trending, and for good reason: It's beautiful, timeless, and works with every type of nursery idea. With a cool color palette, it looks light and airy even in the tiniest of nurseries.
Get the look: Crate & Kids Midcentury Three-In-One Spindle Crib, $599
2. Add a sheepskin rug.
As shown by Emily Henderson in this baby's room, a bit of faux sheepskin adds Scandi coziness to any nursery idea. Drape it over a rocker, or layer it on top of an area rug to create an extra cozy tummy time spot.
Get the look: IKEA Rens Sheepskin, $29.99
3. Embrace black-and-white patterns.
Channel Scandi design like Edina Sæther did with kid-approved patterns in black and white, like the fir trees shown in her son's nursery, or even Pia Wallén-inspired cross patterns. They're charming on the walls, throw blankets, crib sheets, or framed prints.
Get the look: Fine Little Day Gran Woven Child Blanket, $56
4. Go for wooden playthings.
Nordic and Scandi style is all about goods that are beautiful, practical, and built to last — toys included. Instead of plastic and bright-colored options, opt for well-made wooden playthings for your tiny tot. They'll be more durable and look better, too.
Get the look: Let's Make Wood Baby Gym, $58.38
5. Keep storage simple.
For a serene Scandi-style nursery idea, what isn't in the room is almost more important than the decor. Steer clear of extra clutter and unnecessary items and select only a few simple toys and pieces of furniture instead. Keep the rest well-organized in good-looking storage pieces, like woven baskets or a painted hutch, as seen in this space designed by Ursula from Room to Bloom.
Get the look: Serena & Lily Solid La Jolla Basket, $88 – $198
6. Include natural textures.
Invoke Nordic style like Ciara Self did by bringing in natural materials like wood and woven textures all over the room, even in the light fixtures, like the woven IKEA option shown here. It'll add intrigue to a neutral nursery idea.
Get the look: IKEA Sinnerlig Pendant Lamp, $69.99 and Livette's Wallpaper Black Delicate Herringbone Removable Wallpaper, $40 – $99
7. Hang a mobile.
Add a dose of whimsy with a mobile in soft tones. Simple geometric shapes are fittingly Scandinavian, as are pastel hues, DIY designs made of wood, and tiny felt creatures, as seen with this mobile by Petit Pehr.
Get the look: Petit Pehr Felt Swan Mobile, $76
8. Lean a ladder.
A leaning blanket ladder is the perfect place to keep your treasured swaddles and blankets within easy reach — and on display — as captured by photographer Trish Allison in this nursery.
Get the look: Birch Lane Rustic Wood 5-Foot Blanket Ladder, $62.99
9. Keep it neutral.
For a Scandi-esque baby's room, say no to pinks and blues and opt instead for white walls and pale shades of white, off-white, and gray. The neutral, light tones will keep the nursery restful and calm as seen here in this serene space.
Get the look: IKEA Sniglar Crib, $79.99
10. Finish with a wreath.
No Scandinavian-inspired nursery idea would be complete without a simple wreath made of greenery. (You can even DIY one here.) Hang one above the crib or the changing table like photographer Paige Jones did to bring in some natural decor and make your baby's room look and feel just a little bit special.
Get the look: Fieldwork Bay Wreath, $22 – $328