There is so much to consider when you have a baby. However, in-between working out what to pack in your hospital bag to exactly how many muslin cloths you need, it’s worth thinking about how you’ll fit your new addition into your home.
This is the time to use this opportunity to review how your rooms and furniture function so that your home allows for the change without everything feeling cramped. To help you, here are some ways for you to plan out how you want to adapt the space you already have.
Re-evaluating the space
How can you rework what you have? Are there any rooms that could be repurposed into the nursery? Now’s a good time to reconsider how you use the box room or reimagine the guest bedroom.
In the living room, try moving sofas and side tables to update the layout. This creates a safe, open corner for baby play and toy storage. If there’s any unused vertical space, it’s worth investing in tall shelving or cupboards so that you can free up the floor to allow for baby to safely roll around.
Decluttering is key. Start by getting rid of anything you no longer need. Send unused items and clothing to charity and consider the things you want to keep.
From there, you can assess your furniture. Redistributing pieces between rooms helps you avoid jumping straight to making huge decisions about extending your home or converting the attic.
Smart storage and hidden solutions
Now you have a clear idea of where everything is, you can plan for where the new things will go. With a baby comes gear: pram, changing supplies, blankets, toys.
The trick making better use of the space you already have. Under-bed drawers offer a surprising amount of storage. An alcove beside a window might accommodate built-in cabinets that tuck away blankets. The hallway could hold a bench with hidden compartments for shoes and baby-kit bags.
Fitted wardrobes give you another advantage. Rather than a freestanding wardrobe encroaching on the room, bespoke units that span from floor to ceiling use awkward corners and the full height of the room, leaving floor area free.
Multipurpose rooms & furniture for changing needs
Choose furniture and rooms that can shift as your baby grows. A cot that converts into a toddler bed ensures your investment carries through several years. Dining tables with built-in drawers or benches with storage beneath allow family meals and toy-time to share one space.
By opting for adaptable items, you avoid redundant repurchases. When you plan a multipurpose room, you create the conditions for seamless transitions rather than distinct ‘before baby’ and ‘after baby’ eras.
Prioritising practicality
Think about how your home flows. Place the changing area close to the sleep zone and pop the seating for you and your partner near the baby crib. Try having your change bag stored near the door for easy exits, too.
Safe and accessible storage is a must. Items like the pram or baby equipment should be stored where you can grab them easily, but they shouldn’t block your hallway or living room. It’s also worth thinking about making your home baby proof now too. This is something you’ll revisit as baby grows, but it’s worth thinking about adding barriers and securing furniture now.
Are you ready to make some updates to your home? What upgrades will you make?
