In the Nursery with Mary Lauren

You probably follow Mary Lauren Gunn over on instagram, where she shares peeks into the life of her young family. She recently welcomed a second son, Curren, to her adorable family, and we are just loving his beautiful neutral nursery design. Mary Lauren is here to give us a full tour and all the design details. Thank you, Mary Lauren, for letting us into your home! We’ll let her take it from here.

My name is Mary Lauren. I am a wife to a bearded man usually found in flannel and a mama to the sweetest little boys. We live in a house on a hill near the ocean and love to travel. My background is in business and economics and some days, I am not sure how that happened. My heart is in design, art, and anything lovely…really! Headed Somewhere is a lifestyle blog I started in September of 2012 as a journal and creative outlet. I write about interior design, baking/cooking, products I love, traveling, fashion, and after the birth of my first son, this little space of mine has transformed into somewhat of a “mommy blog,” naturally.

Design inspiration can come from anywhere, what inspired your nursery/kid room design?
I have always loved neutral nurseries. The photo of the deer by Mandi Nelson is the piece that really drew me in and got my creative juices flowing! I chose everything around that print. I also have a serious love for vintage/upcycled furniture. I found the dresser on Craigslist painted and with new hardware. I HAD TO HAVE IT! It just gives the room a little bit of “unique-ness.”

Be Kind and Brave Banner | Hook

What were your nursery must-haves?
I knew I wanted a comfortable rocking chair. When we had Ezra, I bought one of those plastic rockers. I loved how they looked, and yes, it was so cute! But I absolutely hated having to sit in it for hours in the night while nursing/rocking him back to sleep. So this time around I decided it needed to be comfortable and functional!

Macrame Pendant | Side Table | Rocker

This rocker is awesome because it is also a recliner. My husband Clay especially thanked me for choosing something comfortable! That’s not my strong suit when choosing furnishings. So I was so stoked to find something that fits both categories—comfortable and looks good!

Llama Bookends

Toddler Quilt | Tripod Lamp

Raccoon

What is that one thing that everyone mentions when they step into this space?
Everyone loves the giant bird of paradise plant! I was skeptical putting it in the nursery, but it really brightens it up and brings life to the space! I also love that it sort of hangs over the crib…kind of like a natural mobile? It feels very earthy and organic.

Curtain Rod

Mobile | Rug

What is the one thing that you would tell other parents to consider when they’re starting their own nursery design projects?
Functionality over fashion! Seriously, this is key. Things can be pretty and functional at the same time. At the end of the day, the baby is crying, you’re super tired and you just want a room that is going to be comfortable! (Especially that rocking chair in the middle of the night…) For example, I really wanted a woven flat-weave rug—it was sooo pretty! But I decided early on, comfort was my first priority. It took a little more searching, but I found one I love that is also super cozy! Do yourself a favor and choose comfort/convenience over anything else.

Changing Pad Cover | Dresser (vintage) | House Shelves (similar)

Deer Photo | Crib

Now that the room is complete, what do you love the most about the finished design?
I really love the feeling of this space. It feels bright and serene.