Heres a step-by-step guide filled with expert advice to help get you started.

I call this the seed itemits the item from which the rest of the design grows.

Wallpaper applied to the ceiling brings playfulness without being over the top, Bean says.

Nursery lightly decorated with baby crib, toys and striped rug

The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto

Babies are on their backs a lot, and it’s more interesting for them.

And whatever color you choose, be sure to opt for no orlow VOC paint.

Dont forget to add plenty of soft textures, easy to maintain natural materials, and baby-friendly plants.

How to design a nursery

Christy Q. Photo/Cathie Hong Interiors

Resist the urge tooverdecorateor accessorize to keep the room calm for baby and easy to maintain for you.

Use thick pile rugs and drapes to help absorb noise.

Layer solar shades, black-out shades, interior or exterior shutters, and/or curtains to control and filter light.

How to design a nursery

David Casas/Little Crown Interiors

Don’t underestimate the importance of lighting in a nursery, Bean says.

Interior designer Stefania Skrabak ofAHG Interiors.

says that she designs nurseries with two guiding adjectives: whimsical and transitional.

How to design a nursery

A Beautiful Mess

How to design a nursery

Coco Kelley

How to design a nursery

Nick Glimenakis /AHG Interiors

How to design a nursery

Kacey Gilpin /Mel Bean Interiors

How to design a nursery

David Casas/Little Crown Interiors