The room of requirement
Friday, July 6, 2012 at 3:57PM I think I may have mentioned a time or 300 about my beloved -- but quirky -- old house. Up the secret back stairs is a tiny bedroom with a window that looks out into the hallway. From a weird angle that you could never possibly squeeze yourself into. It has a sloped roof and minimal square footage.
For a time, it was my son's room, until we decided to reconfigure how our house operated and moved him into one of the larger bedrooms, moved our two girls into what used to be the master, and moved the master bedroom downstairs into the spacious library -- a room that sadly sat idle.
When we found out we were expecting Shamrock, we decided to transform this teeny but sweet bedroom into her space.
I started by painting the walls a pale aqua. What other color could it be?
We added some of the most beautiful crib bedding I've ever seen.
These lovebirds. They make my heart flutter. They're hand drawn.
(And yes, we will be practicing safe sleeping. Don't get your knickers in a twist about the bumper pad.)
Look at the coordinating hand drawn damask on the crib skirt. It's so charming, whimsical, and unexpected.
I took this dresser -- a free hand me down -- and painted it charcoal gray. I added accessories given to me by friends and family.
See the strange little window? I'm still puzzling over its existence.
I opted for two layers of curtains -- one a gauzy white, and the other a room darkening deep charcoal. I like how they add a touch of elegance to the otherwise juvenile room.
The rug makes the space seem decidedly feminine. I found it on one of those daily deal sites for an incredibly cheap price.
The white chair was repurposed from my Front Porch Makeover, and the footstool was on clearance at Target.
This changing table has been in the family for at least 15 years. It was given to us by a relative, and we've used it for all three of our older children. It's one of those pieces that prides itself in utility -- solid maple, Italian construction -- but didn't have much charm, style wise.
I painted it a pale pink, then overlaid that with a light gray and did a little distressing. The pulls are from etsy -- they are actually made from the same lovebird pattern as the crib bedding.
You can see the alcove -- not tall enough to walk in -- to the left. It's just wide enough for a roll away twin bed to pull out for guests. One of my good friends stays with us whenever she visits Duluth, and my kids have taken to calling the bed "Auntie Stephanie's bed."
I have a weakness for baby shoes. And fluffy, colorful cloth diapers.
As of right now, Shamrock has not made her appearance. But she will be here any minute, and I've had a lot of fun fixing up this little room of requirement to be just for her.
We're ready when you are, baby!
Reader Comments (34)
What an absolutely adorable little nursery! I love the nontraditional colors, like the gray and aqua for a girl (but then, you've always had impeccable color taste ;-) ).
This is one of the cheeriest, prettiest nurseries that I have ever seen. Welcome, Baby Shamrock!
Simply beautiful!
You did such a beautiful job! I would want to spend time in that room even if my granddaughter weren't in it. You're teaching me not to be so matchy matchy. When will Mr. McBoy, Mrs. Nisky and Lil' Gleegirl be over? :) xxoo
Beautiful!! Nicely done, Mama!
Could the odd window be like the "air conditioning" venting system (well, just ventilation really) like at Glensheen? that's what it reminds me of. They have all those weird windows going from rooms into closets, etc. Sounds cool anyway! :)
It's wonderful!
Adorable nursery! Baby Shamrock will love it!
Absolutely gorgeous. Such a beautiful space for a wee babe. I think a bed in the baby's room is the smartest thing ever. I spent a lot of time trying to sleep on the floor of my son's room when he was having rough nights. We put a futon in the room before my daughter was born. They say women should get to have their second children first. I would have to agree : )
She should wait until Sunday the 8th! It's a fabulous day to be born on. Really. I should know. Such lovely people, those July 8th people!
The nursery is lovely...truly. Old and new, with whimsy and convention all in one. (Were those Goodmama diapers I spied? - if you need more, I have some... inbox me. Mine are gender neutral or boy, but really... can you ever have too many of them?) :-)
Enjoy your new nugget!
What an absolutely adorable room. The crib bedding is so stinkin' cute, it almost makes me want to have another. Good Luck to all of you. Stay cool.
Smiles,
How adorable. I love those old houses in Minnesota. They are filled with such character and feel so warm and welcoming.
I absolutely love the colors, especially the crib linens and the gray dresser!! You are so color-talented. I hope little Shamrock arrives soon so you can show her what you did for her!
The room is beautiful and filled with whimsy and wonderful colors and love. But I have to know: WHERE did you get the shoes? Just learned one of my nephew's twins who are due in November is a girl. Must buy some beautiful baby girl shoes!
That is too adorable!!! I'll bet Shamrock will be just delighted with her new room. Many prayers for a peaceful and safe delivery!
Shamrock's room is a delight. Cheery, adorable and and fun. I love the Love Birds.
Absolutely beautiful nursery. The crib looks so inviting, I'm sure baby shamrock will be very easy to put down for naps and will sleep through the night in no time at all! Best wishes for a blessed delivery of your precious girl.
Jenna, good eye! I love those diapers... so amazingly soft!
Genia, there are several brands of shoes: Robeez, See Kai Rub, and Bobux.
The nursery turned out really cute! I'm so jealous, and it motivates me to get mine finished already. (I also have to laugh that I have slept in that spare bed all of three times, but good to know I've got a place to call my own in Duluth!)
Beautiful, eclectic, and not "fussy"...just the kind of nursery Shamrock deserves! Kudos, Sharon, and thanks for sharing!