Spending time outdoors and experiencing nature is important for the development of children; so important that there are schools sprouting up all over Europe and North America called Forest Kindergartens or Forest Schools. Connecting to nature helps children map blueprints for a healthy lifestyle, develop confidence through hands-on learning, and become environmental stewards.
PHOTO OF CHILD ON TREE TRUNK BY VISIONPIC.NET FROM PEXELS
Studies are suggesting that rates of depression, attention deficit disorder, vitamin D deficiency and child obesity are rising in children because they are NOT spending enough time outdoors and connecting with the natural world. New parents can promote this healthy lifestyle early in the child’s life by incorporating natural materials and nature inspired objects in the design of the nursery.
CELIA AND TRACY DISCUSS THE NURSERY DESIGN ON CITYLINE
We see a lot of kids’ rooms designed with elements of nature, but more often than not “nature” is portrayed in cartoon form or introduced in a vinyl wall decal. In a segment for Cityline TV, with host Tracy Moore, Celia designs a nature inspired nursery, and shows viewers how to create a space using natural materials that are reflective of nature by being true to nature. The link to Celia’s video segment with Tracy Moore is located at the bottom of this Cityline blog post.
Design Tips for Creating a Nature Inspired Nursery
- The predominant colours in nature are green, brown, blue of the sky, yellow of the sun, and small pops of vibrant colour. Think about how you will incorporate these colours in the furniture, accessories, paints, and materials.
- Consider installing a wall mural with a beautiful nature scene rather than a cartoon theme.
- Purchase pieces that offer longevity and versatility and can be upcycled; can the furniture be used as the child grows up or in another room of the house; think quality vs. the quick fix; consider a more expensive chair to be an investment in your future living room furniture; consider vintage and second hand furniture.
- Children are very sensitive to VOC’s (volatile organic compounds): eliminate plastics that are not guaranteed to be safe for children; complete construction a few weeks before baby comes home to minimize any exposure to off-gassing; avoid traditional wallpapers made with PVC (polyvinyl chloride); go for natural woods and fibers like organic cotton, wool, and linen.
NATURE INSPIRED NURSERY DESIGNED BY DESIGN FOR CONSCIOUS LIVING
NATURE THEMED NURSERY DESIGNED BY DESIGN FOR CONSCIOUS LIVING
Expecting a new baby or need help designing a children’s bedroom. We would love to help. Design for Conscious Living® is an expert in the field of residential design, and decorating children’s rooms is one of our specialties. Call us today for a free introductory consultation.
