When you’re expecting a baby, it’s easy to get over-excited and create a nursery fit for a mini king or queen! Nowadays, there’s so much equipment to choose from and you may feel pressure to buy it all. But new babies actually need very little besides warmth, love and a full tummy. They’re only tiny for a short time, so create a room that will grow with your child.

CHOOSING COLOUR

Once upon a time, most boys had pale blue rooms and girls had pink, except when parents occasionally sat on the fence and chose lemon. We were often told to avoid bright colours that might over-stimulate the baby, and woe betide anyone leaning towards a less-common scheme such as beige or black!

Well, I can’t say I know any babies with black rooms, but there are some stunning natural-coloured furnishing and accessories out there for people who like the neutral look. My son has a green room and my daughter’s is turquoise. These colours are bright, yet warm and welcoming, and the transition from baby’s nursery to big kid’s bedroom has gone well in both cases!

FURNITURE

Bear in mind that babies and children have different needs. You can buy cots that convert into beds, but they’re often quite small so you’ll probably be looking at replacing them before long. Bunks can be a good choice but they can also be dangerous. It’s not wise for children under six to sleep on a top bunk and it’s always advisable to fit guard rails. Have a night-light nearby in case children need to get up to go to the toilet during the night.

While your baby is small, it’s nice to include a comfy chair in the bedroom for feeding. Little ones will be relaxed and more likely to go back to sleep if you don’t need to move them far.

STORAGE

As anyone with children knows, good storage is essential. Furniture stores often stock cube-shaped units, which are a perfect size for small possessions – especially if you can slip plastic crates into them. Older children usually need a more comprehensive solution, ideally one that can incorporate a computer table or desk along with bookcases.

FINISHING TOUCHES

Babies often arrive at a time when parents’ finances are stretched. This isn’t all bad as it can encourage you to use your imagination. Painting furniture or decorating it with wallpaper or wrapping paper can be ver y effective and, when it comes to items such as these painted wooden boxes on wheels (right), why not rope in a friend or relative who enjoys woodworking to help with a spot of DIY?

Your child’s room will be particularly meaningful if you incorporate aspect s of their lives in the décor. For babies, this can mean plaster casts of their adorable little feet and, of course, lots of photos charting their milestones. Older children will love it if you mount or frame their own artwork.