5 Ways to Make a Crib Work in Your Bedroom

When bringing home baby, most parents opt to have the new little one share their room for the first few weeks and months: Staying close can ease a new mom or dad's fears while making midnight feedings a bit easier. But instead of buying a bassinet or cradle for your room and setting up a full crib in the nursery, consider setting up the crib, changing area, and baby's clothes in the master bedroom. You'll be able to minimize the amount of baby gear you have to buy, and when you're ready to transition the baby to his own room he will already be accustomed to the crib. Here are five inspiring photos to help you plan your shared space.

1. Make It Blend In

Irina Bond of Bond Girl Glam showed off this sweet nursery space she created in the master bedroom for baby Vienna. The white crib, geometric gray and white textiles, and gold accents help the baby's space blend in seamlessly with the rest of the bedroom's neutral, sophisticated look.

2. Keep It Low-Profile

When Rita of Suburbs Mama had her third child, she set up a cheerful space for a crib in the master bedroom so that they could co-sleep for the first two years. The soft blue-gray walls and gray furniture work perfectly with the low-profile crib, yellow changing pad, and blue-and-yellow bunting she added to the baby's space.

3. But Give It a Little Personality

New parents Robyn and Joe Wallace didn't find out the gender of their baby before her arrival, but still put together a charming newborn space by using a crib with dark wood accents, a large, plush giraffe, and a shelf full of toys, books, and other baby essentials in a corner of their bedroom.

4. Use a Mini Crib

Short on space? Take advantage of even the smallest spare area by using a mini crib that tucks into a tiny corner. The shimmering wallpaper accent adds a grownup touch that's still whimsical enough for a little one, turning this 10-square-foot closet into a baby-friendly sleeping spot.

5. Or Try a Round One

In this room, using a round crib set off from a curved wall helps define the baby's space. Sleek Roman shades, a bright blue chandelier, and a comfy chair for reading or nursing keep the master from feeling too babyish while the shelf keeps all baby's must-haves nearby.