An Aviation-Inspired Nursery Reveal
If you’re looking for aviation nursery ideas, today’s reveal is anything but kitschy! It’s full of tasteful details and daily utility. Color and comfort. Safe, low-tox elements for Momma and baby. But I’m getting a little ahead of myself. Let’s start at the beginning...
Meet the Adventure-Seeking Family
Al and Mareya both own and operate businesses. As if that wasn’t enough adventure for them, Al also has his pilot’s license and even owns a twin-engine baron. Their garage hosts a variety of beautiful cars and action sports aren’t far from their sights.
When we met, they were embarking on an even more ambitious adventure: growing their family. They called me in to design a high-end, kid-friendly nursery for their soon-to-arrive baby boy. They requested an aviation-inspired design and we are so happy with how the room came together! First up, the flight plan...
Project Scope & Goals
The main focus of this project was infusing an elevated aviation theme throughout the room. We planned a complete overhaul to transform this basic room into a posh and practical space for their coming baby. The design goals included:
A place for mama to comfortably sleep on those long nights with Baby Boy
Updated closet storage (the original only had two hanging rods for clothes)
Creating a detailed design while remaining boyish
Incorporating classy, aviation-style decor
New carpet
Project Take-Off
I started the process by sharing six concepts and then a 3D rendering for the selected concept. 3D renderings are an excellent way to instantly see what the new room will look like and help you make timely decisions to move forward confidently with your design.
They chose a design they loved, and after their feedback, I revised their final plan and went to work! Although they were nervous about timing and made some changes mid-project (baby’s arrival can be unpredictable!), we were able to complete this project with time to spare.
Aviation Nursery Unveiled
An important request was to fill the nursery with lots of planes, so I made sure to add aviation elements in an elevated style everywhere you look! I always lean on the side of sophistication and didn’t want the room to feel too themey (clients don’t come to me for that), so we struck the perfect balance between high-end design with an aviation motif. The quilted bedding and uber plush daybed pillows ensures any sleepless night will be comfortable. A good long-term strategy to keeping your nursery timeless is to weave playful elements into the design through decor, toys and art.
When you first enter the room, there is a beautiful daybed in sight where mama can comfortably sleep in this nursery on those long nights. We used trims from Samuel & Sons and organic fabric from Two Sisters EcoTextiles for the daybed canopy. The vintage airplane propeller with classic topstitched leather accents was the perfect addition to the daybed decor.
How incredibly adorable is this leopard aviator art? The goggles, the jacket… SO cute. This family also has a Bengal cat that looks just like the leopard... doppelganger alert! (In fact, grandma thought the cat was posed for this photo. Cracked me up.)
One of the first things on my mind when designing a space is how to treat the walls. I’m a fan of incorporating sophisticated details like modern wainscoting and trim. Trim molding is one of my favorite elements and in this room the fluted molding was a great addition to the crib wall which frames the art and wall sconces nicely.
Next, we chose low/non-tox elements for the bedroom, including the Naturepedic crib mattress and a Coyuchi crib sheet. When designing a low-tox room, I always start with the mattress and bedding, because your sweet babe will be spending so much time there. (Not sure where toxins may be hiding in your baby’s room? Read 6 hidden sources of toxins in your nursery.)
The most dramatic transformation was the closet redesign because we know how much tiny babies collect! I took this a step further and redesigned the door track system to completely open all three doors to one side, fully exposing a customized, extra-wide, built-in dresser and temporary changing station with textured drawer fronts in metallic gold raffia. We used zero VOC paint from ECOS paint for the built-in dresser and Pehr pom-pom storage bins and hamper.
Behind the single stacked doors lies a collection of designer baby clothing and shoes to make any fashionista swoon! The room is primarily neutral, but the bright blue octagonal mirror adds a cool, eye-catching element that coordinates well with the chair and curtains. Plus, Gucci and Fendi onesies (gifts that were acquired) doubled as cool decor when I styled the room!
This room design is all about stunning details. We chose this navy blue organic fabric for the chair and ottoman by Two Sisters Ecotextiles and added an aviation-style side table for creative storage. Meanwhile, the overhead lighting adds just the right amount of sparkle to elevate and modernize the room.
Last but not least, the crown molding detail is one of my favorites! This particular design is so unique, and it adds so much to the room’s overall feel. The bomber formation planes in the niche are made of cast aluminum and polished brass. Just another of the many little touches that make this room one-of-a-kind.
Happy Clients Ready to Onboard Baby Boy
My clients were thrilled with the room. They say it’s their favorite room in the house, which is really flattering, because they have a beautiful home!
Thanks for stopping in to see this room reveal. I’d love to hear your thoughts below. And if you’re looking for help creating a one-of-a-kind nursery or playroom for your little one, let’s chat and see if we’re right for each other. I can’t wait to meet you.