Ever since I first learned I was pregnant with Lulu back in Jan. 2015, I started dreaming up nursery ideas. I just LOVE children's room decor and making rooms for my own babes is extra special! Part of making Lulu's room meant upgrading Maggie from a nursery to a big-girl space. *sob Not one room to design, but two?!! What a dream!
Today on Studio 5, a local lifestyle program here in Utah, I shared the outcome of Maggie's new space. In researching ideas, I fell head over heels for the monochrome look--a Scandinavian trend that is all about embracing the black and white.
There is also strong Australian influence. What can I say? Those across the pond from us in the states sure are a stylish and inspiring bunch.
So, for nearly two years now, I've been working and planning and dreaming and designing. Little by little, Maggie's room is coming together.
Some of the common elements you'll find in #monochromekids rooms include:
1. Teepees
You know I love my We R Memory Keepers teepee kit. Click here to learn more about how my teepee came together and learn about this fab kit.
2. Lighting
This room foundation warms up the stark white/black combo. Everything from string lights and lamps to marquees and nightlights are making these spaces cozy and cute!
Sources:
* lamp: Layers: Beautiful Bedding @ Gardner Village
* cloud marque light: Fromage La Rue (awesome Australian company!)
* star marquee: Heidi Swapp (battery operated--yay!)
* kitty nightlight: Target (sadly, kitty appears to be sold out, but they have a cute bear and bunny)
***Sad Kitty Update: We were getting kitty out of my car last night after the segment and she sadly fell to the ground and broke. :*( If you happen to come across this cutie in the stores, please let me know. XO
***Happy Bunny Nightlight Update: The bunny! If you've watched my TV segment, you know I had a serious DUH moment, forgetting this cute bunny's name. Well, I'm happy to report, his name is Miffy. And I have a serious crush on him. Hope you do now, too. It gets even better. You can buy the Miffy nightlight on Amazon. Here's a link. You're welcome! ;)
3. Wall Art
I made this dream catcher by inserting a doily into an embroider hoop. I then stitched the wood veneer heart to the center and strung the feathers. All supplies from Michaels (except the beads, which I had on hand).
I made this shield using stiff felt sheets and felt letter stickers, all purchased at Michaels. The "Dream" is a wood piece that I spray painted black. It, too, is from Michaels.
Wall art collages are a big deal in the monochrome rooms. The variety of wall hangings are interesting and exciting. You'll find framed pieces, as well as out-of-the-frame ideas, such as shields (the shape of my "dream big" hanging), dream catchers, and even eyelashes (to name a few--there are SO MANY awesome ideas!).
4. Shelving
Not just any shelving, shaped shelving! House shelves, hexagons, teepees, and more are bringing the walls to life. They act as shadow boxes and hold delightful monochrome knickknacks. *swoon
Sources:
* house shelf: Target
* bunny shelf: Michaels--a wood box that I painted
5. Banners and "Drippings"
I love that Brooke Walker, the host of Studio 5, referred to these as "drippings." That's so accurate and happy. The garlands, banners, and buntings delightful drips in monochrome rooms. The pre-made options I shared on the show are from My Mind's Eye.
6. Decorative Extras
* So much more goes into monochrome room design. Cool seating, stunning bedding, darling critters, eye-catching rugs, and awesome toys are just a few of the decorative extras that make these spaces special.
Sources:
* toy bags: Tellkiddo
* alphabet pillow: purchased at Craft Lake City last year
* blanket: Target
* black & white floor cushion: Land of Nod
* chair: Amazon
Inspiration
Here are just a few of the MANY ideas on Pinterest that have inspired me. A special thanks to these talented Instagrammers for allowing me to share their work on TV (and here on my blog). These are definitely accounts worth following!
@quinnandlee
@willowstyleco
@selinej
@kerryann_stylist
@alicia_and_hudson
You can watch my segment here and see more of Maggie's room transformation on my Instagram account, where I frequently post pics of my projects. Thanks so much for your interest and support!
Mixbook Winner
I was so thrilled to read your many emails and see the blog comments in response to the Mixbook giveaway I hosted as part of my last Studio 5 TV segment. I'm thrilled to be here now, announcing my winner. Congratulations to Brenda Quam. You're my winner! Woot! Keep your eye on your email for more info from me on claiming your $50 Mixbook credit. Happy mixing! <3
Cheers!
Megan