Small Nursery Layout Strategies to Save Space and Style

Designing a nursery in a small space can seem daunting. With a bit of strategic planning, however, you can create an efficient, organized, and stylish nursery layout even in a tiny room. From multifunctional furniture to vertical storage solutions, there are many savvy ways to save space and maximize style.

With a focus on choosing compact, convertible furniture and making the most of every inch, you can design a beautiful, functional nursery that works perfectly for your little one.

Start by Measuring the Exact Dimensions

The first step in planning any small space is mapping out the precise room dimensions. Measure the length and width of the walls and make note of any architectural details like windows, doors, and molding.

Once you have the measurements, create a detailed floorplan either by hand on graph paper or using an online room planner. Mark where each wall, window and door is located. Having an accurate layout will allow you to strategically place furniture and design the nursery zones.

Zone Your Nursery for Sleeping, Diapering and Feeding

In an ideal nursery, there are at least three separate zones - one for sleeping, one for diaper changes and dressing, and one for nursing or bottle feeding. Carefully planning these spaces will ensure your nursery is organized and has a place for everything your baby needs.

With a small room, think creatively about zone placement. Put the crib in the corner or along the longest wall for more open floor space. Angle a chair or nursing ottoman kitty-corner to open up the middle of the room. Use curtains, area rugs or partitions to define each zone.

Maximize the crib area

Strategically place the crib to allow easy access on both sides while maximizing space. If possible, allow for at least 20-24 inches of clearance on each side. Under-crib storage drawers are fantastic for keeping extra linens and toys right where you need them.

Create a dedicated diaper station

Select a dresser or changing table that fits in a corner or unusual space. For a multifunctional option, install a changing pad on the dresser top. Close at hand, use wall-mounted shelving or an over-the-door organizer to store diapers, wipes and other changing essentials.

Set up a cozy nursing nook

Carve out a small, defined space for nursing by placing a comfy chair or glider with an ottoman. If possible, situate this zone at an angle to open up more floor space. Nearby shelves or a side table give easy access to blankets, burp cloths and nursing pillows when you need them.

Invest in Multifunctional, Space-Saving Furniture

From cribs to dressers to gliders, choose nursery furniture that does double duty. Look for pieces with storage compartments, hidden draws, and multiple uses.

Changing tables that attach to dressers are excellent space-savers. Cribs on wheels allow you to easily move baby into different zones. An ottoman with interior storage provides extra places to tuck away clutter.

Compact furniture designed just for small spaces, like mini cribs or narrow bookshelves, are also useful. The key is selecting essential pieces that maximize every inch in a small nursery.

Examples of multifunctional nursery furniture:

• Crib with under-drawer storage
• Dresser with a changing pad on top
• Rocker with extra storage inside
• Bookcase with cubbies and shelves
• Desk or table that can be folded up when not in use

Utilize Vertical Storage Space

In a small nursery, it's essential to take advantage of vertical storage space. Floor space comes at a premium, so moving items off the floor and onto walls, hanging from ceilings or placed in tall furniture maximizes every inch.

Floating wall shelves are ideal for displaying books, toys and accessories. Sturdy overhead racks or hanging canvas cubbies can contain clothes, extra linens, and more. For major storage, floor-to-ceiling bookcases double as both storage and room dividers.

Creative vertical storage ideas:

• Mounted wall racks for hats, blankets, and bibs
• Over-the-door organizers for diapers, wipes, towels
• Floating corner shelves for books, plants, and photos
• Hanging storage bins for toys and stuffed animals
• Tall storage unit like a bookcase or wardrobe

Make Use of Small, Unused Spaces

When working with a small nursery, it's important to utilize every last bit of available space. Tuck storage and organization solutions into corners, under furniture and anywhere else they will fit.

Under-crib drawers are perfect for keeping extra sheets and blankets close at hand but out of sight. Corner shelves or cabinets maximize awkward, triangular spaces. Even the inside of a closet door can become storage with the addition of hanging canvas bins or hooks.

Smart ways to use small spaces:

• Under-crib drawers
• Corner shelves or cabinet
• Inside-closet storage solutions
• Wall-mounted bookshelves
• Baskets under tables or chairs

Select Furniture Scaled for Small Spaces

When choosing nursery furniture, be sure to consider the proportions. While standard sizing works in a larger room, petite options are perfect for a first nursery or a tight layout.

Opt for a mini, space-saving crib with a smaller footprint but all the essential features. Compact gliders, dressers and changing tables take up less precious real estate. For maximum functionality, look for furniture specifically designed for small nursery spaces.

Compact nursery furniture options:

• Mini cribs
• Petite gliders and rockers
• Narrow dressers and wardrobes
• Changing tables with a small base
• Folding chairs and small accent tables

Use Light, Bright Colors to Visually Expand

Color choice plays a big role in opening up a small nursery. Light, neutral walls and ceiling reflect the most light, making the room feel airy and expansive.

Soft shades of gray, green, yellow and blue are calm and soothing palette options. For contrast, add in punches of color with accessories, artwork, or patterned textiles.

On the other hand, dark paint hues tend to close in a small space. If using a bold accent wall, keep the remaining walls light to prevent a cramped feel.

Tips for choosing paint colors:

• Stick to light, neutral wall colors
• Bright white or soft gray are fail-safe options
• Add color through decor and accessories
• Use darker shades sparingly as accents

Add Character with Meaningful Accents

The finishing decor touches bring vibrance and personality to any nursery. When working in a smaller space, thoughtful styling creates ambience without clutter.

Display meaningful art prints and photos in simple frames. Apply removable wall decals for a whimsical pop of color. Create a gallery wall to utilize vertical space above furniture. Add greenery with a potted plant or flower.

Focus decorating efforts on one accent wall to keep the room from feeling too busy. Infuse character through fabric textures, lamps and other enhancements carefully chosen to complement your design.

Small-space decorating tips:

• Style a focal point accent wall
• Frame special art, prints or photos
• Add wall decals and removable wallpaper
• Incorporate natural greenery and textures
• Opt for whimsical over cluttered

With some savvy small-space solutions, you can design a nursery that's both practical and full of personality even in a tiny room. Use multifunctional furniture, maximize vertical storage, and choose light, bright colors to open up the space. Add style through art, accessories and other meaningful, minimalist accents.

By incorporating these layout strategies and design ideas, your small nursery can become a comfortable, beautiful oasis for you and your little one.