Creating a nursery in a small apartment might feel like an impossible puzzle: where does the crib go? Will a changing table fit? Can it still feel thoughtful and peaceful, even if it’s wedged between your bed and a bookshelf?
Take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and yes, it absolutely can.
Maybe you’re eyeing that one open corner in your studio, trying to picture a crib where your reading chair used to be. Or maybe you’re sharing your bedroom with your newborn and wondering how to carve out a space that feels like theirs. It’s a lot to figure out. But here’s the thing: small-space nurseries often turn out to be the most heartfelt, creative corners in the entire home.
You don’t need a ton of space to create something special. With a little creativity, it’s completely feasible to design a nursery that’s both practical and beautiful. Levtex Home has plenty of options to help you get there, but the magic really comes from how you pull it all together in your own unique space.
For starters I recommend thinking about function. “What will I need to do in the space? When will I be using this space?" These considerations help you select the right placement for activity within a small space.Vince Stroop, interior designer and Stroop Design founder
Small Nursery Ideas: Start with a Compact but Cozy Crib Setup
When space is tight, the crib becomes your anchor. Think of it as the centerpiece that sets the tone for the whole nursery nook.
Mini Cribs & Convertible Cribs for Small Space Nursery Inspo
A mini crib is narrower and shorter than a standard crib, ideal for small nursery spaces without sacrificing safety or comfort. Convertible cribs grow with your baby. Many start small and expand into toddler or even twin beds, saving you both space and future shopping trips.
Pro Tip: Small Nursery Ideas That Maximize Space
Sleek, modern furniture tends to be more streamlined and take less space. Look for crib and furniture options that are multi purpose, like a dresser thats also a changing table.
"An easy way to create a larger open space for children to move around and play is to push all the furniture against the walls. I suggest loading the walls by creating storage units and painting them the colour of the walls, so the rooms appear to be more spacious."Sahiba Madan, principal architect and founder of Insitu by Kalakaarihaath
Use Soft, Light Textiles to Maximize Visual Space in a Small Nursery
In a small space, color does a lot of heavy lifting. Light, airy tones like whites, creams, soft greys, and pastels can instantly make a room feel bigger and brighter. And when you’re up at 3 a.m. for the third night in a row, trust us: that calm, cozy vibe makes a difference.
Start with the basics. Curtains that let the daylight pour in like the Levtex washed linen drape panels, a pale rug that feels soft under tired feet, and crib bedding that’s as light and breathable as it looks. These details might seem small, but together they help create a nursery that feels open and restful
Levtex Baby’s collections shine here. The Cloud Muslin Baby Bedding Collection with a choice of colors to fit your space and a soft 100% cotton muslin, or the Mills Waffle Bedding Collection, are perfect for opening up a space without making it feel sterile or boring. Everything coordinates effortlessly, which is especially helpful when you’re trying to make a tiny space look polished without overthinking every little piece.
Stylish Storage Space Solutions for Small Nursery Ideas
When you’re working with limited space, storage becomes part of the design. Every basket, bin, and shelf needs to earn its keep while also blending into the space.
Start by going vertical. Wall-mounted shelves are lifesavers in tight quarters. A few well-placed hooks or a rail system can turn an empty wall into a hanging station for swaddles or diaper bags. And don’t overlook the hidden gems. The space under the crib? Prime real estate. Slide in soft-sided bins or shallow baskets to store extra blankets or out-of-season clothes. Cube shelving with fabric drawers works wonders for separating essentials, and it doubles as a display space for books or framed baby photos.
Changing table short on space (or nonexistent)? Portable caddies can keep diapering supplies in reach without taking up precious surface area. Tuck one beside your favorite nursing chair or under the crib and just grab it when needed.
“Don’t try to build in a whole bunch of storage. Buckets are fine for toys and other storage. Instead of building a storage unit that can take away the majority of the space, buckets are an easier alternative and and more convenient for stuffing toys and clothes."Sarah Sham, principal designer at Interior Design studio, Essajees Atelier
Defining Zones in a Small Space Nursery with Area Rugs and Textiles
When your baby’s nursery shares space with your bedroom, office, or even part of the living room, setting clear boundaries isn’t just helpful, it’s necessary. Defining a “baby zone” can make your space feel less chaotic and more peaceful for everyone.
One of the simplest ways to do this is with a well-placed area rug. Even if your nursery spot is just a small corner, laying down a soft, cozy rug helps anchor the space and quietly says, “This is where baby’s world begins.” Levtex Home offers beautiful Nursery Rugs, which are just the right size for small spaces and soft on little feet. It creates a visual divide without any complicated setup. Just roll out the rug and let it do its thing.
Textiles are another great way to define your nursery space and add warmth. Think cozy quilts or even lightweight curtains that can be hung from a tension rod. Levtex’s collection of Quilts brings a layered, inviting feel that makes the space both comfortable and visually distinct. These textiles help create a gentle barrier that separates the baby’s area from the rest of the room without closing it off, adding both style and function.
This kind of visual separation is especially helpful in those early months when everything can start to feel like it’s blending. Even a small bit of distinction can go a long way toward making your space feel more organized and your daily routines more grounded.
"If you are short on space or starting from scratch, I suggest considering multipurpose nursery furniture with added storage, such as a crib with a built-in drawer, chests with built-in changing toppers, or cribs with an attached changing table and storage."Justin Segal, Director of Product & Brand Management at Storkcraft
Final Thoughts: Small Space, Big Style
You don’t need a big, picture-perfect nursery to create a space that feels just right. What matters most isn’t square footage, it’s comfort, and the love you pour into every detail. Whether you’re working with a spare corner or a small city apartment, it’s absolutely possible to design a nursery that feels calm, functional, and uniquely yours.
Start with what you need, layer in what you love, and don’t worry about the rest. The truth is, your baby won’t care how styled the space is, but they’ll feel the hearth you’ve created. And you’ll feel better too, knowing that even in a compact space, you’ve made room for both beauty and breathing room.
Levtex Baby’s collections are there to support that vision, offering practical and thoughtfully designed pieces that help make the most of whatever space you’re in. From cozy quilts and coordinated bedding to drapes and pillows that really work, it’s all designed to grow with your baby and fit into the rhythms of real life.
FAQ
How do I design a nursery in a one-bedroom apartment?
Create a designated nursery nook using a corner or wall of your bedroom. Use rugs, curtains, or room dividers to separate the space visually. Choose compact furniture, go vertical with storage, and stick to a cohesive color palette.
For small nursery ideas, focus on multi-use furniture like a crib with built-in drawers or a dresser that doubles as a changing table. Even in a one-bedroom apartment, a smart layout can make your baby room feel peaceful and intentional. Think vertically and creatively when planning storage space—shelves, wall hooks, and under-crib bins can transform your nursery space into a well-organized zone.
What’s the best bedding for a small crib or mini crib?
Look for bedding specifically made for mini cribs or flexible crib bedding sets like those from Levtex Baby. Their collections come with a fitted sheet, quilt, and sometimes coordinating accessories.
In a small nursery, choosing neutral bedding can help visually open up the space. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are perfect for maximizing comfort in small spaces where airflow and sleep quality matter. These bedding pieces also complement small space nursery inspo by blending seamlessly with both modern and traditional design styles.
How can I decorate a nursery without overwhelming the room?
Stick to a light color scheme, limit decorative items to a few meaningful pieces, and use storage that doubles as décor. Keep wall art light and airy, and avoid bulky furniture.
In small spaces, every piece should serve a purpose—whether it’s visual appeal, storage, or both. Consider woven baskets or cube organizers that blend style and space storage in a small nursery. For added calm, lean into soft textures and light colors that support both baby sleep and a neutral, soothing aesthetic.
What’s the best layout for a small nursery in an apartment?
Crib in a corner, changing pad on a dresser or folding table, vertical storage on the wall, and open floor space in front. Use rugs or lighting to define the space. Less is more—keep the layout open and flowing.
When working with a small space, it’s helpful to center your design around one key piece—usually the crib—and build outward. Floating shelves and wall-mounted lighting can save valuable room while enhancing nursery ideas with intentional design. Even without a separate baby room, a few thoughtful changes can turn a corner into a beautifully efficient nursery space.
References:
1. "5 expert-approved clever ideas to design a small space nursery" on Architectural Digest - https://www.architecturaldigest.in/story/expert-approved-clever-ideas-to-design-a-small-space-nursery
2. "How to Design a Nursery" on The Spruce - https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-design-a-nursery-5199207
3. "No Nursery? No Problem: 8 Creative Tips To Make Space For Your New Baby" on Style by Emily Henderson - https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/small-space-nursery-ideas
4. "Room to grow: Finding space for a nursery" on The Seattle Times - https://www.seattletimes.com/explore/at-home/room-to-grow-finding-space-for-a-nursery
