With every New Year I’m asked to write about the nursery trends on the horizon by various publications. As with the runway fashions, interior design is ever-changing and evolving. Trends will fade in and gradually fade out over time as they become older and oversaturated. So when asked what might be on the horizon for the new year, we have to stop and take a look at what was popular during the past year.
2012 saw a continued focus on birds and in particular owls. This trend was popular in 2011 as well- so while it will still be seen somewhat in 2013, I think it’s going to begin to fade in popularity by 2014.
What do I think will be the next trend to replace the popular owl? Woodlands animals such as deer, squirrels, raccoons and rabbits will be popular. Rabbits have always been a common nursery theme, and I do feel they’re a perennial favorite in the nursery because they’re just so sweet and cuddly.

Oopsy Daisy Art
Trees have been popular in the nursery for a few years now and 2012 saw more than ever. Trees represent life, family (the family “tree”) and with their wispy branches, trees can be a beautiful touch to the nursery for boys or girls. Again, I believe they’re going to continue to be a favorite for many years, but we will likely see fewer in 2013 and onward than 2012 presented.
Chevron and Ikat patterns became hugely popular in 2012! We see it on bedding, curtains, rugs, as well as chevrons are painted on walls, dressers, and armoires. Since this is a fresh, new trend, I believe we’ll see it grow in popularity through 2013. Chevron is fun and gender neutral, making it a great choice for any nursery.
Yellow and gray were the most popular color combination in 2012 with aqua and fuchsia as a close second. Gray has been the most popular neutral for several years now. While it is a classic, I predict black will make a bit of a comeback and a soft linen hue might just take over as a more popular soft neutral in the coming year or two. Pantone has recently named Emerald as the “Color of the Year”. We will most definitely see more of this color popping up in our bedding, rugs and more over the next year or two.
Wall decals are continuing to be popular and are a great alternative to a hand-painted mural.
Wallpaper made a strong comeback last year and I believe it will become even more popular in the next two years. Most are not lining all four walls with paper, but instead are using it on a focal wall. I recommend considering it for the ceiling to really add some whimsy or drama to the room.
Vintage, baroque photo frames were a popular accessory in 2012 and will continue to grow in popularity for 2013. Grouped over the crib or changing table, these don’t need to be filled with photos, but instead use an empty frame or two combined with a few that feature artwork, photos, and monograms.






















