Designing a Coastal Retreat: Ocean-Themed Nursery Ideas

Written by Lee Orlian
Interior designer & co-founder of Teepee Joy.

Creating a nursery with an ocean theme can be a fun and creative way to decorate a baby’s room. The ocean is full of wonder and beauty, and there are many different ways to incorporate this theme into a nursery. 

In this article, we will explore some ideas for creating an ocean-themed nursery that is both beautiful and functional.

Use ocean colors

One of the most obvious ways to incorporate an ocean theme into a nursery is through color. Choose colors such as blue, green, and white to create a soothing and calming atmosphere. You can also add pops of coral, sandy beige, or even some navy blue to give the room a more coastal feel.

Incorporate ocean imagery

Use artwork, wall decals, and even bedding to incorporate ocean imagery into the nursery. Consider using a large wall decal of a beach scene, or a framed print of a beautiful ocean landscape. You can also find bedding sets with ocean-themed patterns, such as whales, dolphins, or even sea turtles.

Use beach-inspired textures

Incorporate beach-inspired textures into the nursery by using natural fibers such as jute or seagrass. These materials can be used for rugs, baskets, or even the crib’s mattress. You can also add some natural wood or wicker elements in the room to give it that coastal feel.

Add a touch of whimsy

Incorporate fun and playful elements into the nursery to give it a whimsical feel. You can use a mobile of sea creatures, a stuffed animal octopus, or even a plush beach ball to add some fun to the room.

Create a focal point

Use a piece of furniture or decor as a focal point in the room. For example, you can use a crib with a unique shape or design, or a large piece of artwork. This will give the room a sense of visual interest and make it feel more cohesive.

Incorporate natural elements

Incorporate natural elements such as shells, coral, or even a small aquarium to give the room a more authentic ocean feel. You can also use a few houseplants to give the room a more natural feel and to purify the air.

Source: @rachsmith

Use a theme-inspired lighting

Lighting can play a big role in setting the mood of a room. Consider using a ceiling light with a beach-inspired design, or a table lamp with a coastal motif. You can also use string lights or a dimmer switch to create a more calming atmosphere in the room.

Incorporate functional elements

While it’s important to make the nursery look beautiful, it’s also important to make it functional. Consider incorporating elements such as a changing table, storage solutions, and a rocking chair to make the room both functional and beautiful.

Source: @rachsomp

Keep it cohesive

To make the room feel cohesive, make sure that all the elements in the room work together. Choose a color palette and stick to it. Use different textures, patterns, and materials to add interest and depth to the room, but make sure they all complement each other.

Personalize it

Lastly, make sure to personalize the room to your taste and style. Incorporate elements that are special to you and your family. For example, you can use a family photo, or a special piece of artwork that you’ve collected over the years.

Creating an ocean-themed nursery can be a fun and creative way to decorate a baby’s room. There are many different ways to incorporate this theme into a nursery, whether it’s through color, imagery, or even natural elements.

The key is to keep the design cohesive and functional, while also personalizing it to your taste and style. Remember to use a mix of different textures, patterns, and materials to add interest and depth to the room, and incorporate elements such as a changing table, storage solutions, and a rocking chair to make the room both functional and beautiful.