Gone are the days when pink and blue dominated nursery color palettes. Today’s parents are opting for gender-neutral themes that offer a more versatile and contemporary approach to nursery design. Gender-neutral nurseries often feature a range of colors, patterns, and motifs that appeal to all genders, providing a more inclusive environment for your baby.
So, how do you create a gender-neutral nursery? What colors and patterns fit the best with gender-neutral themes? Last but not least, what crib should you pick?
Key Considerations for Choosing a Gender-Neutral Nursery Theme
When selecting a gender-neutral nursery theme, think about colors and patterns first.
Colors in Gender-Neutral Baby Room
Gender-neutral nurseries often use a variety of color palettes that move away from traditional pink and blue, favoring more inclusive and versatile shades.
We have prepared eight different color palettes (find them below) that you can use in your nursery. Each color palette includes five colors that we consider an excellent match for a gender-neutral nursery.
You can use all five colors in one nursery, but how you incorporate them will depend on your design preferences and the size of the space.
Tips on how to effectively use these color combinations:
- Choose one or two colors as the main colors for the walls, and use the remaining colors for accents in furniture, bedding, and decor items.
- Use one color to create a feature wall and paint the other walls in a more neutral or complementary color.
- Layer colors through different elements like rugs, curtains, cushions, and wall art.
- Ensure there is a balance between bold and soft colors to avoid overwhelming the space.
Color Palettes for Gender-Neutral Nursery:
- Soft & Neutral
- Tranquil Meadow
- Forest Retreat
- Coastal Breeze
- Neutral Harmony
- Earthy & Natural
- Pastel Shades
- Modern Monochrome
Combination: Light Grey, White, Beige, Taupe, and Soft Yellow
Example of Application:
- Walls: Light Grey for a sophisticated and neutral background.
- Furniture: White for a clean, crisp look.
- Accents: Beige for bedding and curtains to add warmth.
- Additional Accents: Taupe for rugs and cushions to introduce an earthy feel.
- Decor: Soft Yellow for small decor items and wall art to add a touch of brightness.
Description:
“Soft and Neutral Tones” creates a serene and elegant environment using a mix of cool and warm neutrals. Light Grey and White provide a clean, modern backdrop, while Beige and Taupe add warmth and comfort. Soft Yellow brings a subtle hint of color, brightening the space without overwhelming it.
Combination: Very Light Grey/Off-White, Light Grey, Soft Beige, Muted Green, and Soft Blue
Example of Application:
- Walls: Very Light Grey/Off-White and Soft Beige
- Furniture: Light Grey
- Accents: Muted Green and Soft Blue
Description:
“Tranquil Meadow” evokes a sense of peace and calm, reminiscent of a gentle, misty morning in a meadow. The soft neutral tones create a soothing backdrop, while the muted green and soft blue add a touch of nature and tranquility.
Combination: Moss Green, Dark Olive Green, Soft Yellow, Warm Tan, and Chestnut Brown
Example of Application:
- Walls: Moss Green for a serene and natural feel, with an accent wall in Dark Olive Green for depth and richness.
- Furniture: Warm Tan for wooden elements such as a crib or dresser, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
- Accents: Soft Yellow for curtains, bedding, and small decor items to brighten the space and add a touch of warmth.
- Additional Accents: Chestnut Brown for rugs, picture frames, or storage baskets to tie the color scheme together and add a cozy, earthy tone.
Description:
The “Forest Retreat” palette brings the tranquil and grounding qualities of nature into the nursery. Moss Green and Dark Olive Green evoke the lushness of a forest, creating a calming and serene environment. The Warm Tan and Chestnut Brown add warmth and a sense of natural woodiness, reminiscent of tree trunks and forest floors. Soft Yellow accents provide a gentle contrast, adding brightness and a touch of sunlight filtering through the leaves.
Combination: Warm Beige, Soft Cream, Light Grey, Light Blue, and Soft Teal
Example of Application:
- Walls: Light Grey for a neutral, airy base with an accent wall in Light Blue to add a calming, coastal feel.
- Furniture: Warm Beige for wooden furniture pieces like a crib, dresser, or rocking chair to introduce warmth and coziness.
- Accents: Soft Cream for curtains, bedding, and cushions to keep the space light and soothing.
- Additional Accents: Soft Teal for decorative items such as rugs, wall art, and storage bins to add a fresh, oceanic touch.
Description:
“Coastal Breeze” evokes the serene and refreshing ambiance of a coastal retreat. The palette combines the warmth of beige and cream with the cool, calming hues of light blue and soft teal, reminiscent of sandy shores and gentle ocean waves. Light grey serves as a neutral, versatile backdrop that ties the colors together harmoniously.
Combination: Light Cream, Soft Apricot, Light Grey, Soft Grey, and Muted Olive
Example of Application:
- Walls: Light Grey for a clean and neutral backdrop with an accent wall in Soft Grey to add a subtle, calming touch.
- Furniture: Muted Olive for larger furniture pieces like a crib and dresser, adding a warm, earthy feel.
- Accents: Soft Apricot for textiles such as curtains, bedding, and cushions to introduce a soft, warm contrast.
- Additional Accents: Light Cream in smaller decor items like picture frames, storage baskets, and a rug to tie the room together.
Description:
“Neutral Harmony” combines soothing, earthy tones with light, airy neutrals to create a balanced and serene environment. The Muted Olive and Soft Grey bring in natural, calming elements, while Soft Apricot adds a touch of warmth and softness. Light Grey serves as a versatile, neutral backdrop that enhances the overall harmony of the palette. This combination creates a gentle and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a gender-neutral nursery that feels both cozy and peaceful.
Combination: Sage Green, Olive Green, Light Brown, Terracotta, and Cream
Example of Application:
- Walls: Sage Green for a refreshing, natural ambiance.
- Furniture: Light Brown for a cozy, wooden feel.
- Accents: Olive Green for cushions and small decor to add depth.
- Additional Accents: Terracotta for rugs and throws to introduce warmth.
- Decor: Cream for bedding and curtains to maintain a light, airy atmosphere.
Description:
“Earthy and Natural Colors” brings the outdoors inside, creating a calm and grounding nursery. The greens evoke a sense of nature, while Light Brown and Terracotta add an earthy warmth. Cream balances the palette, ensuring the space remains bright and open.
Combination: Mint Green, Soft Lemon, Aqua, Lavender, and Peach
Example of Application:
- Walls: Mint Green for a fresh and calming background.
- Furniture: Soft Lemon for a cheerful touch.
- Accents: Aqua for curtains and cushions to add a soothing effect.
- Additional Accents: Lavender for bedding and decor to introduce a gentle, calming hue.
- Decor: Peach for small decor items to add warmth and softness.
Description:
“Pastel Shades” creates a light, airy, and cheerful nursery. The soft, pastel colors are soothing and uplifting, perfect for creating a gentle, inviting space. Mint Green and Aqua provide a refreshing backdrop, while Soft Lemon and Peach add warmth and brightness. Lavender brings a calming touch, making this palette ideal for a peaceful, gender-neutral nursery.
Combination: Charcoal, Light Grey, White, Silver, and Soft Blue
Example of Application:
- Walls: Light Grey for a modern, neutral backdrop with an accent wall in Charcoal for depth and contrast.
- Furniture: White for a clean, crisp look.
- Accents: Silver for decor items like picture frames and lamps to add a metallic touch.
- Additional Accents: Soft Blue for bedding and curtains to introduce a calming, gentle color.
- Decor: Additional Charcoal in small decor items to maintain a cohesive, modern look.
Description:
“Modern Monochrome” combines sleek, modern elements with soft touches to create a sophisticated, gender-neutral nursery. The monochrome palette of Charcoal, Light Grey, White, and Silver provides a clean, stylish backdrop, while Soft Blue adds a hint of calming color. This combination is perfect for a modern nursery that feels both chic and serene.
What patterns can you use when creating a gender-neutral nursery?
Using patterns in a nursery can make the room look better and feel more comfortable. Patterns add visual interest and depth to the nursery and can also change the mood of the space. They break up solid colors, help a baby’s visual development, and help create a cohesive theme.
When using patterns, avoid overwhelming the space. Balance them with solid colors and use them on key areas like accent walls, decor items, or bedding. Pay attention to the size and color of the patterns to keep the room harmonious.
Types of Patterns:
- Stripes
- Polka Dots
- Chevron
- Animal Prints
- Geometric Shapes
- Stars and Moons
- Clouds
- Floral Patterns
- Checks and Plaids
- Abstract Patterns
Stripes are versatile and timeless. They can make a room appear larger or taller depending on their orientation. Bold or subtle, you can use stripes on walls, bedding, and accessories.
Polka dots add a playful and fun touch to the nursery. They work well in various sizes and color combinations.
Chevron patterns add a dynamic and modern feel to the nursery. They can be used in textiles like rugs, bedding, and curtains, as well as on accent walls.
Animal prints bring a fun and adventurous vibe to the nursery. They can be used in wall art, bedding, and plush toys.
Geometric patterns add a modern and stylish look. They can range from simple shapes to complex designs, making them very versatile and can be tailored to fit any theme.
Stars and moons create a dreamy and soothing atmosphere, perfect for a nursery. They can be used in wall decals, bedding, and mobile decorations.
Cloud patterns evoke a sense of calm and serenity. Use them on walls, bedding, or mobiles. You can also add a nursery nightlight in the shape of a cloud.
Timeless floral patterns add a touch of nature and beauty to the nursery. They are great on bedding, curtains, or wall art.
Checks and plaids bring a classic, cozy feel to the nursery. They can be used in bedding, curtains, and blankets.
Abstract patterns add an artistic and modern touch to the nursery. They can be unique and engaging for both parents and babies.
Best Gender-Neutral Nursery Themes
These are some of the most popular gender-neutral nursery themes:
1. Nature-Inspired Nursery:
A nature-inspired nursery theme is a classic amongst gender-natural nurseries. It is calming and timeless and a perfect choice for any baby.
This theme brings the outdoors in, creating a peaceful and serene environment. It uses leafy greens, sky blues, and earthy tones. The natural-inspired nursery is decorated with botanical prints, woodland creatures, and natural materials like wood and cotton.
If you like this gender-natural nursery theme, check up our guide on creating one: How to Create a Nature-Inspired Nursery
2. Animal-Themed Nursery
An animal-themed nursery sparks imagination and curiosity. From majestic elephants to playful bunnies, animals are a surefire hit. This approach goes beyond just cuteness; it opens the door to an imaginative world where stories come to life as your child grows.
You can create an animal-themed nursery by using animal prints on the wall or the bedding. Wall decals featuring animals are also a great option. Another idea is to paint the walls with natural tones and decorate the nursery with soft plush animal toys.
3. Geometric Chic
This theme is perfect for parents who like modern design. It is sophisticated, clean, and modern.
Use patterns like triangles, squares, and circles in neutral or pastel colors to create a gender-natural geometric nursery theme. Clean lines, bold shapes, and a monochrome palette interspersed with pops of color give the nursery a fresh and trendy vibe without locking into traditional gender roles.
This theme is not only visually appealing but also encourages cognitive development as your baby grows.
4. Classic Characters from Children’s Literature
This evergreen nursery theme uses classic characters from children’s literature – reimagined in a gender-neutral way.
Classic children’s books are filled with beloved characters that can inspire a charming nursery theme. Think Winnie the Pooh, Peter Rabbit, or Dr. Seuss characters. These well-loved icons can outline the walls and shelves of the nursery, offering comfort and familiarity without prescribing a particular gender narrative to the space.
Baby Cribs in Gender-Neutral Nursery
When choosing a crib for your gender-neutral nursery, consider how it complements your chosen theme. A crib is often the centerpiece of the nursery, so its design should harmonize with the overall aesthetic.
For a nature theme, a wooden crib with a natural finish, like the Babyletto Hudson, works well. For a geometric theme, a crib with clean lines and a modern design, such as the Delta Children Essex, is ideal. You can also find cribs that look like little houses, like the Storkcraft Orchard, or those with ornate details that fit nicely with storybook characters. Choose something that resonates with you and feels like a natural extension of your chosen theme.
However, when choosing a crib, you should never forget about safety and durability. Every crib you consider should meet current safety standards. This includes a firm mattress, proper slat spacing, non-toxic finishes, and sturdy construction. Also, don’t forget to check for any recalls, and always read the manufacturer’s safety advice.
I recommend you opt for a crib that grows with your child, such as the convertible crib. This not only saves money but also ensures that the crib fits seamlessly into the evolving design of the nursery.
Additionally, consider sustainable options made from eco-friendly materials, which are better for the environment and your baby.
Accessorizing Your Gender-Neutral Nursery
Now, after you’ve selected the perfect gender-neutral theme and paired it with a phenomenal crib, it’s time to bring it all together. Accessorizing is where you really get to have fun and personalize the space. Think of this step as adding the cherry on top of an already delicious cake.
Use textiles like blankets, rugs, and curtains to add color and texture. They complement your theme and add a layer of comfort and warmth. Opt for soft, hypoallergenic fabrics that are cozy for the baby and easy to wash.
Wall art and lighting can also set the ambiance. Wall art, such as prints or decals, can reinforce your theme without overwhelming the space. Gentle, soothing light from a stylish lamp can create a warm and cozy atmosphere, perfect for nighttime feedings and bedtime stories.
Interactive elements that align with your theme not only complement your gender-natural theme nursery but also stimulate your baby’s senses and encourage development. A mobile above the crib featuring shapes from your chosen theme or a tactile play mat can both entertain and educate your little one.
Finally, an organized nursery is a functional nursery. Use baskets and shelves that tie into your theme to keep things tidy and ensure everything you need is within arm’s reach.
Remember to choose items that are not only beautiful but also practical — form should always follow function in a nursery.
Benefits of a Gender-Neutral Nursery Theme
Before we get into the diverse themes available, it’s important to understand why a gender-neutral nursery could be the right choice for your family.
A gender-neutral nursery offers several benefits:
1. Inclusivity:
The gender-natural nursery theme emphasizes a welcoming environment for all. The approach offers an inclusive palette that can appeal to all children, regardless of gender. It promotes a sense of equality and avoids gender stereotypes.
2. Long-term functionality:
The versatility of these themes means a nursery can easily adapt to changing tastes as your child grows.
3. Timelessness:
Gender-neutral themes are often more sophisticated and timeless. Moreover, by focusing on neutral tones and themes, you create a serene space that encourages calmness and comfort.
4. Investment for the feature:
Deciding on a gender-neutral nursery is not just an aesthetic decision; it’s also a practical one. You can reuse its furniture and decor for future siblings, which saves you money in the long run.
5. Enhancing your home’s value:
Opting for a neutral theme can also enhance your home’s resale value. Prospective buyers can envisage the space fitting their own family’s needs, making your property more attractive.
Conclusion:
In summary, creating a gender-neutral nursery offers numerous benefits, from inclusivity to long-term value. By carefully selecting themes, colors, and accessories, you can create a beautiful, functional, and safe space for your baby.
However, don’t stress over getting everything perfect from the get-go. You can always adjust your approach down the road as you and your baby settle into your routine together.
Remember, the focus should always be on creating a space that feels comfortable and joyful for both you and your baby. With the right planning and creativity, your gender-neutral nursery will be a timeless and cherished part of your home.
I hope the ideas I’ve shared have inspired you to create a nurturing and enchanting space for your newborn. More than just a room, a nursery is where cherished memories will unfold. So make it special, make it yours, and most importantly, enjoy the journey.