Designing a Nursery with Jessica Kreutzer

Meet Jessica! Based in Nashville, TN, she is a master at mixing the timeless old with the beautiful new. After using two of our swivel gliders in the sweetest spaces, we knew we wanted her input on how to design a nursery. Read on to learn all about Jessica and her tips for nursery decor!

Tell us about yourself and how you got to where you are today!

My husband and I live in Nashville, TN with our seven-month-old daughter, Kate, and our dog, Lola. I am originally from Lake Forest, IL and made my way to Nashville seven years ago. I previously lived in Dallas where I attended SMU, and LA where I studied interior design. After a decade of working for very talented designers, I recently launched my own firm, Jessica Kreutzer Interiors. I am so excited for this next chapter!

What’s your starting point when designing a nursery? Do you typically begin with a piece of furniture, color, or something else?

I always like to start with something that sparks joy - whether it be an eccentric wallpaper, a fun piece of art, or a family heirloom. From there, the goal is to create a space that’s cozy, functional, and full of personality. There’s nothing as special as welcoming a new baby into a space you truly love!

How do you find the balance between aesthetics and functionality when designing a nursery? 

Designing a nursery is all about striking that perfect balance between beauty and practicality – because let’s be real, this space has to work hard. I love choosing pieces that are as stylish as they are useful – like turning an antique dresser into a changing station or freeing up space by mounting wall sconces instead of using a table lamp.

What advice do you have for anyone who might be in the process of designing their first nursery?

Designing your first nursery is such a special experience – so have fun with it! Start with that one piece that inspires you and let the rest of the space unfold from there. Focus on smart and usable – think blackout curtains for better sleep, a cozy chair you’ll live in, and plenty of storage for all those little necessities. Most importantly, don’t stress about making it perfect from day one – babies change, styles evolve, and the best spaces are the ones that can grow over time!

What are your favorite Coley Home pieces to incorporate into a nursery?

I love Coley Home’s swivel gliders, especially the Nash and the Hadley. They are so cozy for those bedtime snuggles and late night feedings, and the fact that they rock are such an added bonus.

Get the look

What is one design element or trend you always try to incorporate into your projects, no matter the size or scope?

I love to incorporate antique or vintage pieces into my projects. They add warmth and character to any room. In a nursery in particular, it's really special to think about the antique growing with the child throughout their life and potentially being a piece they can also pass down one day.

What are your favorite areas to splurge when decorating your home, and favorite places to save?

I like to splurge on window treatments and textiles for pillows – I think those are the standout pieces that make a project feel finished. I like to save on rugs and art – Etsy has a lot of great, reasonable ideas for both! 

Where do you draw inspiration from when starting a new project? 

I love to draw inspiration from travel. I also have an ever growing collection of coffee table books from my favorite designers – nothing better than flipping through one with a cup of coffee in hand! 

CH Team Nursery Decor Favorites: