When interiors enthusiast and content creator Lydia Dinga started planning her first nursery, she wanted more than just a stylish set-up. She imagined a calming, playful space where her baby could grow, and memories could take root.
Working with a curated selection of CuddleCo nursery furniture, Lydia combined timeless pieces, soft colours and layered textures to create a warm, functional and deeply personal space. Her approach proves that the best nurseries aren’t about trends, they’re about feeling at home with your baby.
Here, Lydia shares 10 nursery styling tips to help UK parents design a room that’s beautiful, practical, and made to last.
1. Start with a feeling, not a trend
“Think about how you want the room to feel when you’re sitting in it, calm, playful, grounding? That’ll guide every decision.”
A nursery designed around emotion rather than fleeting styles will feel timeless and personal, making it a space you truly connect with.
2. Build a mood board early, and make it big
“I had so many saved folders, Pinterest boards, Instagram screenshots, and random clippings stashed away in my notes app!”
Gather lots of inspiration to refine your style direction. Visual references help you spot recurring themes and colours that speak to you.
3. Blend vintage charm with modern practicality
“I wanted a charming, old-world feel, but I also fell in love with a very modern-looking wardrobe - it was about finding that balance.”
Mixing classic and contemporary nursery furniture creates a space that feels layered, interesting, and uniquely yours.
4. Choose furniture that truly earns its place
“The Nola cot-bed caught my eye straight away! The Etta chair was all about practicality and comfort, and the Aria changer brought that vintage warmth.”
Every piece in Lydia’s nursery was selected for its function, comfort and design appeal, proving that beautiful furniture can be practical too.
5. Play with colour softly
“I kept imagining woodland walks and tried to bring that feeling indoors, whilst also playing with lots of colour!”
Nature-inspired nursery colour palettes create a calming mood. Lydia’s soft blue ceiling adds personality without overwhelming the room.
6. Let the room evolve over time
“Collect things over time, some of my favourite pieces came from thrifting and small independents.”
A thoughtfully curated nursery tells a story. Slowly layering pieces makes the space more meaningful and personal.
7. Mix and match textures
“Don’t be afraid to mix textures - it adds so much warmth and depth.”
Combining wood, fabric, and natural fibres gives the room a cosy, welcoming feel that babies and parents both love.
8. Keep practicality at the heart of your choices
“The open changer keeps everything within reach, open shelving is your best friend for grab-and-go moments.”
A nursery needs to work for you day-to-day. Choose functional furniture and clever storage solutions that make life easier.
9. Add personal and sentimental touches
“All the soft toys were collected by baby’s grandma. It makes everything feel so special.”
Family keepsakes, handmade gifts and treasured items bring heart and warmth that can’t be bought off the shelf.
10. Layer lighting for calm evenings
“Soft lighting makes such a difference, especially during night-time feeds.”
Gentle lighting creates a soothing atmosphere, perfect for bedtime routines and those late-night snuggles.
Lydia’s nursery is proof that the best baby rooms aren’t built overnight or by following every trend. With intention, patience, and a focus on feeling, you can design a nursery that’s beautiful, functional, and full of love. A space that grows with your family for years to come.
