Project Just Lake A Dream: Nursery Before And After

We're back with another #ProjectJustLakeADream reveal - this time for the sweetest nursery for one lucky little boy! (For more before and after's from this project, check out the full living room and office/bar!)

This space started out as a totally blank canvas, which our clients wanted to transform into a magical nursery inspired by their honeymoon spent on safari. When theming spaces in nurseries or children’s rooms we always carefully consider our selections with the future in mind, opting for key pieces that are elevated and versatile, allowing the space to easily evolve as little ones grow without the need to start again from scratch.

We laid the foundation for the design with a scheme of cream and warm green, layered with natural woods, woven textures, and pops of rich rust tones for contrast.

To give this space an injection of character, we designed simple paneling with the cutest square detailing to run around the lower portion of the room. Knowing that we wanted to install wallpaper above the paneling, we brought the overall height to 42" - helping to put a bit of distance between the paper and little hands, especially in those early years. In addition to adding a layer of functionality, the paneling will also help this room evolve more easily down the line with a fresh coat of paint!

The wallpaper is a lovely balance of abstract and structured, with an alternating stripe pattern that's made up of clusters of painterly dots - we love the way it transforms when you get up close! We pulled a lush green paint color from the dots to use on the paneling, trim and doors (Misted Fern by Benjamin Moore), and painted the ceiling a creamy white (Battenberg by Benjamin Moore ) to match the wallpaper field.

Photography by Jeanne Canto

We opted for double layer blackout treatments on the windows to darken the space as much as possible for sleep, adding some natural texture with sweet scalloped blackout woven shades, and layering them with blackout curtains in a white linen. Curved hotel rods allow you to pull the curtain edges around to meet the walls, minimizing any light leaking through.

A large rug in flax and rust tones anchors the space and adds softness for crawling and play. We love that it introduces another layer of pattern!

The dresser acts as a changing station now (with the addition of a changing pad on top!) and will transition beautifully into clothing or toy storage as baby grows. Fluted detailing elevates the otherwise clean lines, making it an eye-catching yet versatile pick. Handcrafted raffia lion and elephant head sculptures hang above - a cute nod to the safari theme.

"After" photo by Jeanne Canto

"After" photo by Jeanne Canto

Above the crib - which is convertible from mini crib size all the way up to a toddler bed - we went with lightweight textile map of the world, secured by sturdy brass clamps. It's difficult to see in the photos, but the little animals are embroidered, adding a special touch to an otherwise simple piece. Beside the crib, we added a glider, along with a petite side table.

"After" photo by Jeanne Canto

Photography by Jeanne Canto

To add some height to contrast with the lower profiles of the crib and dresser, we incorporated a tall storage cabinet with a mix of drawers and open shelving. For now, it serves as storage and a place to display books and cute baby toys, but can be styled with their little one's favorite treasures in the future as they grow older.

"After" photo by Jeanne Canto

In the corner of the room we brought in another safari-inspired element with a canvas play tent, complete with a plush floor cushion. Cloth and wicker hot air balloons suspended above infuse this little vignette with a sense of wonder and whimsy - we love that this is the view that welcomes you into this enchanting little space.

"After" photo by Jeanne Canto

Photography by Jeanne Canto