After designing so many nurseries over the years, there are a few themes that clients consistently ask for. One of those is a safari theme nursery. I’ve worked on many iterations of this theme, from clients who want something bold and colorful to those who want something more subtle and subdued. But one thing is clear—people love safari animals! This Virtual Nursery Design client wanted something in between with elements of bold pattern, but soft and neutral colors.
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Whenever I start a new virtual project, I always do a Zoom call with the client first. It’s so important for me to talk face-to-face with my client so I can get a real understanding of what they want for their space. She took me on a video tour of the room and I could clearly see that the space was modern and clean. She had one large open wall that was just begging for a wall treatment!
Choosing a Statement Wall Mural for a Nursery
Since it was clear that the client wanted a safari theme nursery, of course we wanted to include a safari wallpaper of some sort. We went through a few options, but she definitely leaned toward this soft neutral animal wall mural. Because the background is white, that also meant she didn’t have to repaint the walls, which was a bonus.
Designer Tip: Always, always order samples of wallpaper before purchasing. They can look so different in person. Since the wallpaper choice often affects other design elements, it’s always best to see it in your actual space before making the investment.
Keeping a Themed Nursery Feeling Sophisticated, Not Childish
This is the biggest question I get from clients when they have a theme in mind. They know they want to use their theme, but are afraid of overdoing it or ending up with a nursery that feels too juvenile. Here are a few ways to make sure your nursery stays elevated:
Use Versatile Nursery Furniture.
I definitely recommend staying away from themed cribs or dressers. These are items that you may reuse in another room, or keep for a long time, so they may outlast the theme. Keep them simple and non-themed and go with whatever wood tone or finish flows with your style.
Layer Your Thematic Elements.
The nursery design above is pretty heavy on theme because she wanted it that way, but if you’re not sure or want something more subtle, use layering. Keep the main elements of the room neutral and non-themed, and add in the thematic elements in layers. for example, for a safari theme nursery, you can keep the rug, crib, dresser, glider, light fixture and shelving all non-themed and versatile. Then, add in little safari decor pieces that are smaller and inexpensive, like some wall art, a pillow or a hanging mobile. You can always add more!
The Safari Theme Loves Texture
The client wanted this space to feel cozy and natural, even though we were using a bolder theme. One way I love to bring in coziness is with texture. We chose a warm wood crib that has a textured back, and a dresser with textured drawer fronts. We chose a textured sheepskin glider recliner, a rattan cornice over the window and an accent rug to warm up the space. Natural elements like rattan, wicker and even woven materials lend themselves perfectly to a safari theme!
Safari Theme Nursery Decor from This Design:
Neutral Safari Wall Mural
Honey Wood Crib
Honey Wood Dresser
Neutral Sherpa Glider Recliner
White Storage Ottoman
Round Rattan Side Table
Animal Print Swivel Chair
Sage Green Floor Lamp
Small Green Dresser Lamp
Semi-Flush Rattan Chandelier
Scalloped Rattan Mirror
Sage Green Scallop Wall Shelf
Wood Elephant Wall Hanging
Safari Animal Mobile
Rattan Window Cornice
Safari Crib Sheet
Sage Green Hamper
Safari Book Bin
Designing a nursery requires so much thought and attention to detail for every single item in the space. If you need help with your own nursery or kid’s room design, check out our Virtual Design services. Also, check out these other safari theme nursery projects:
A Safari Theme Nursery With Deep Woods and Greens
The Many Options for a Safari Theme Nursery
A Safari Theme Nursery With Soft Sage Details
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