The nursery needs to be a calm and comfortable space for both baby and parents. In particular, adequate storage is essential for all the products and equipment that babies seem to need and although so tiny, babies come with so much stuff! Having all of these bits and pieces in easy to reach places or tucked quietly out of the way can make life seem less hectic.

A restful chair or extra bed for parents can also be a welcome addition especially in the wee small hours!

Curtains or blinds will enhance the cosiness of the space as well as blocking out light and floor coverings such as carpet or rugs will add warmth and comfort.

The most important piece of furniture is the cot. Often babies don’t move into their own rooms until they are three or four months old, and this usually means moving into their first cot. Keep the style of the cot simple and be sure that it meets recommended safety standards and that the mattress fits correctly.

Position the cot away from draughts but with an interesting outlook – babies spend a lot of time in their cots! You can begin to introduce a theme to the room with the addition of cot linen. From simple embroidered whites to colourful printed characters, the choice is endless. A fitted sheet and quilt in co-ordinating fabrics can look fun and inviting and the addition of a cot bumper will reduce draughts and protect the baby from the hard sides of the cot.

Many people choose baby sleeping bags to keep their little ones warm and cocooned and to help prevent unnecessary waking in the night. Choose good quality cot linen that is soft (not scratchy), that breathes well and is easy to launder.

The nappy changing area is also important. A specially designed changing table or a chest of drawers topped with a plastic covered mat is essential. Nappies, wipes and creams need to be stored within reach.

Storage for clothes and toys can take many forms from a wardrobe or chest of drawers to open shelving with crates or baskets.

The addition of decorative accessories will make the room more interesting and stimulating for your baby, especially as he or she begins to grow and become more inquisitive. There is a huge variety available from themed curtain tiebacks and bookends, mobiles, motifs and wallpaper borders, to pretty doorknobs and photo frames. Let your creativity run wild!

Most importantly, enjoy the experience. There is nothing quite like welcoming a new addition to the family home.