There are many reasons to consider gender-neutral nursery themes. Some expectant parents prefer the element of surprise and would rather wait until their baby's arrival to learn the gender of their newborn. Others embrace unisex nursery ideas as a way to move away from traditional gender signifiers like pink and blue.
Whatever your reason for choosing gender-neutral nursery colours, they're always a good design choice. As with other neutral backdrops, they're a versatile choice that can be readily adapted as your child grows. In fact, a neutral backdrop can be easily transformed from a baby's nursery into a teenager's bedroom over the years.
At Tikkurila, you'll find an extensive selection of neutral colours that will fit nicely alongside your existing decor. Whether you're a traditionalist or contemporary design fan who loves clean lines and simple details, you'll find plenty of stylish shades for the perfect gender-neutral nursery.
Neutral Colour Palette
Gender-neutral nurseries run the risk of looking drab if you stick to a single all-wall colour. Instead, you'll need a few different neutral shades to pull off a colour scheme to be proud of.
Neutral nursery decor requires a versatile shade as a foundation. Start with a creamy hue like Jasmine F503. Light and airy, this neutral shade is underscored with yellow tones that will bounce around natural light.
Next, think about adding something slightly darker like Batiste G487. This calming greige is perfect for encouraging little ones to sleep through the light, while its pared-back pigment means you can use it liberally alongside lighter hues.
Even the most stripped-back nursery theme calls for a more dramatic splash of colour. For an accent wall, think about using Granulite K484. Used in moderation, this stony brown will create visual interest.
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White & Patterned Wallpaper
An all-white nursery might seem like a good idea, but it's easy for spaces to look sparse and unloved if you use a single paint colour on every wall. While you can still embrace pure white when decorating a nursery, you'll need to think creatively when adding texture and soft furnishings. Instead of using bright colours for a feature wall, try adding embossed wallpaper instead.
While patterned wallpaper works well here, you'll also need one or two white paint colours to bring those gender-neutral nursery ideas together. A pure white like Paper F497 is always a winner and can be used generously throughout.
For something with more depth, try Winter V503. This off-white paint colour has a delicate hint of grey that can be accentuated with matching furniture, floor coverings and fabrics.
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Green & White
Green is a great choice for the nursery. Pastel greens, sages and minty hues can all be used to create a soothing sleep sanctuary for little ones. It's also a versatile choice that's ideal for gender-neutral spaces.
Get things started with a pure white like Arctic Fox S503. This classic neutral is underscored with a hint of yellow, which works perfectly alongside green and natural materials.
Next, start introducing more colour. Menthol J442 is a dream marriage of blue and green, with a cooling character that suits tranquil spaces like nurseries incredibly well.
If you want to create a focal point, use a seafoam green like Wave H440. Although fairly subtle, this nature-inspired shade will bring an essential colour pop to your baby's room.
Neutrals & Darker Hues
Thinking about a more modern nursery? Darker neutrals are the way to go here. However, a contemporary colour palette needs balance if you don't want to leave your baby's room feeling dark and lacking character.
Start with something soft like Lotus F448. This subdued neutral has a hint of green, making it perfect for creating a relaxing ambience.
Next, go with something a little darker like Abyss N439. This rich green makes a fine addition to neutral nurseries, with blue and grey undertones providing you with plenty of inspiration for introducing secondary colours and accent pieces.
Finally, make a statement with a dark cadet blue like Petrol S491. Used sparingly, it'll look right at home in any unisex nursery. Think about saving it for a feature wall or creating an eye-catching two-tone wall motif.
Grey
Grey is often overlooked when it comes to nursery decor. However, a grey colour palette is an easy way to pull off a gender-neutral space.
A pale grey like Bungalow G500 is a great option. Underscored with a hint of blue, it'll leave a nursery feeling airy, making it a good choice for smaller spaces.
This colour works well alongside other pale grey blues like Homespun L498, especially if you're thinking about tonal combinations.
To keep things simple, stick to a white shade when painting the finishing touches. Snowdrift L503 is a great choice, with delicate blue undertones working well alongside anything from the grey colour family.
Bonus Idea: Murals
Even if you've picked out a premium colour palette, a gender-neutral nursery may need enhancing. Unlike other rooms of the home, ornate decoration and display items aren't the best choices here. However, murals are an inexpensive way to personalise a nursery.
If you prefer contemporary design, think about minimalist landscapes in complementary colours. Not only are these incredibly effective, but your child also won't outgrow them for many years.
Abstract murals are also worth considering. However, while abstract murals are easy to apply, you'll want to ensure you're using baby-friendly colours that enhance your existing aesthetic.
Alternatively, take your inspiration from the natural world. Woodland and safari scenes are a stylish addition to any gender-neutral nursery. They'll stimulate inquiring minds and can be accented with plush toys and other nursery essentials.