Renovating A Walk-In Closet To Create A Nursery
If you are expecting a new baby and want to keep him or her close at night, you may want to consider renovating your walk-in closet. Even a small walk-in closet can provide the perfect cozy place for your baby to sleep without being too far away from you. Here are some steps you can take, with the help of a remodeling contractor from a place like Alleva Construction, Inc, to make this project part of your baby planning.
Rip Out Shelving And Rods
You'll want to begin with empty walls to create the space you need for your little one. This includes ripping out shelving and rods in the closet. If you want to keep some shelving available, be sure to only keep the shelves on the wall you won't be using for the crib. Shelves above the crib can pose a danger from potentially falling items. You may also want to replace some shelving along the opposite wall to match your desired nursery decor theme. For example, if your closet currently has wire shelving above the dowel rods, consider switching it out with decorative wooden shelves.
Install Carpet
As baby begins to crawl and toddle, you'll want to have a soft surface to provide comfort and help prevent bumps and bruises from inevitable tumbles. Work with your contractor to find a stain-resistant carpet with plush fibers for your new nursery. Select a neutral color that can match additional design options, as you may choose to convert this space into a reading nook or back into a walk-in closet when your little one is ready to transition to a full-size bedroom.
Install New Lighting
The current lighting in your closet may have been selected to make it easier to find items you are looking for. This may mean that the light is too bright for use in a nursery. Switch out the existing fixture with a model featuring a frosted glass shade to soften the light coming from the bulb. Another option is to have your contractor install recessed lighting that operates on a dimmer switch. This option lets you choose the right amount of light for midnight feedings, diaper changes, or a bit of tummy time.
Choose A Paint Color
Choosing the paint color for your little one's nursery might be the most fun you'll have with this renovation project. You can match the paint shade to the crib bedding you've selected, and you can even choose multiple colors to create a unique look for the space. Consider selecting one wall to be the focal wall, and have this wall painted a brighter version of your chosen color. You can also add vinyl adhesive stickers to the wall when the painting job is complete to add a few playful designs to the nursery.
Having a nursery inside of your bedroom can make it easier to handle late-night feedings and diaper changes. Be sure to have your contractor run wire for electrical outlets if you don't already have them in the nursery. This will let you plug in lamps, bottle warmers, and breast pumps for use in the nursery.