Marie Antoinette Nursery

Description

The project I would like to share with you is my daughter, Violet's, nursery. It's pink and pretty but above all it is inspired by the soft, feminine opulence of Marie Antoinette.

... most importantly it is affordable.

 

Design Inspiration

My husband and I were fortunate enough to spend some time abroad in Europe before our daughter was born. I brought back so many ideas and a few special items that I wanted to incorporate into my daughter's nursery.

I was especially inspired by the palace & grounds in  Versailles, France. I tried to tie in elements of the lavish palace by adding a baroque style stencil on the walls (in plaster), a sheepskin rug on the floor, mirrors and the french toile design on the bedding and curtains.

Decorating Style

I've always been in love with all things french. My bridal shower was an "Afternoon Tea with Marie Antoinette".

This style was a little challenging for a baby's room. I wanted the feel of royal french luxury but I still wanted it to look like a nursery. I still wanted a room that could function for an infant.

Project Details

The dressers are in the provincial french style. They are over 30 years old. I looked everywhere for this style (at an affordable price), I finally found an affordable matching set on Craig's List. They have been passed down through two generations. After a good wipe down and a touch of gold paint they really bring the room together.

The plaster design on the wall was my biggest challenge, but I had to have it. Every palace in Europe had walls covered with raised plaster designs. This actually turned out to be very easy to do. I purchased a stencil online, taped it to the wall then smeared on common joint compound (can be found at any hardware store). Pull the stencil off and voile, a beautifully raised plaster design. The stencil can be found on Etsy.

The chandelier  I bought at an estate sale 5 years ago. It is vintage and was only $15. Too good to pass up and I knew I would one day hang it in my little girls room.

The pennant banner is from my bridal shower 3 years ago. My mother and I made it. I was so happy I was able to incorporate it into my daughter's room.

Favorite Items

I love everything about this room but the round crib has to be one of my favorites details. I've always thought a round crib was so beautiful & delicate. Exactly what you would see in a french nursery. It was very hard to find an affordable one. After months of looking I finally found one (that was in stock) at Wayfair.com.

I am in love with the few special items that we brought back from Europe. The pillow hand stitched with Marie Antoinette's initials, the children's book my husband found called "My Little Versailles", and the tiny jewelry box we bought on the Champs Elysee in Paris. They always invoke such wonderful memories and I cannot wait to tell my daughter the story behind each one.