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How to Plan the Perfect Nursery: Floor Plans, Zones, and Sizes

Creating a nursery is one of the most exciting parts of preparing for your baby. By thinking through the right room size, essential furniture, and functional zones, you can design a space that’s safe, beautiful, and perfectly suited for both rest and play.

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3D nursery floor plan divided into four functional zones: a changing zone with a dresser and laundry basket, a sleeping zone with a crib, a feeding zone with a chair and side table, and a tummy time zone with a small table and play area. The layout features wood flooring, a large area rug, and natural light from windows."
Trude Carlsen
By Trude Carlsen
Published September 24, 2025

Planning a baby's first room is an exciting task for any new parent. It is a space where your little one will rest, nap, play, and grow, so it's essential to create a beautiful, safe, and functional environment.

A well-thought-out nursery should have all the necessary supplies for feeding, clothing, and diaper changing while offering a lighthearted ambiance suitable for a young child.

Let's explore some tips and ideas to design the perfect nursery.

Nursery Floor Plan Size

The first step in planning a nursery is determining the available space.

Popular room sizes are usually around 8 x10 ft (about 2.4 x 3 m) or 10x12 ft (about 3 x 3.6 m), but your space might be larger or smaller.

Take note of the location of windows and the amount of natural light they provide, as this can influence your layout decisions.

Additionally, consider the room's shape and any unique features, like a particularly large or small closet.

Small 65 sq ft nursery floor plan measuring 8'10'' by 8'6''. The layout includes a crib centered against one wall, a comfortable armchair angled in the corner, and a changing table with storage along the opposite wall. A round rug sits in front of the crib.
65 Sq Foot Nursery

Typical Nursery Furniture and Supplies

To create a functional nursery, it's helpful to divide the nursery floor plan into four zones: sleeping, feeding, changing, and play/tummy time.

These zones will guide you in arranging the furniture and supplies in an organized manner.

3D nursery floor plan divided into four functional zones: a changing zone with a dresser and laundry basket, a sleeping zone with a crib, a feeding zone with a chair and side table, and a tummy time zone with a small table and play area. The layout features wood flooring, a large area rug, and natural light from windows."

Sleeping zone

This is the heart of the nursery and should include a crib or bassinet. Opting for a convertible crib that can later transform into a toddler bed is a practical choice, as it will grow with your child.

Bright nursery interior with a white crib holding a teddy bear, placed against a patterned wallpapered wall. Above the crib are two framed bird prints. A large potted plant stands in the corner next to a wooden dresser with paneled doors, topped with a toy train and a potted plant. A window with curtains brings in natural light, and a light patterned rug covers the floor.

Feeding zone

The feeding zone requires a comfortable nursing chair, often a rocking chair with an ottoman. This area is perfect for bonding moments while feeding or reading to your baby.

Consider adding a side table beside the chair for convenience, where you can place water, books, or other essentials.

Cozy nursery corner with a light gray armchair and matching ottoman, decorated with a stuffed bunny toy. Beside the chair is a small round side table with a vase of white flowers and stacked books.

The play/tummy time zone

This is where your little one will explore and have fun.

A soft, comfortable rug is a great addition to this area. Fill bookshelves with picture books to encourage a love for reading from an early age.

Invest in toy storage, such as a lidded bench, wide shelves, or open bins and baskets, to keep the room organized.

The changing zone

Here a dedicated changing table is essential. Many changing tables come with built-in storage, making it convenient to keep all the necessary items within reach.

Some changing tables can be combined with a dresser, which means it can transition into a plain dresser as your baby grows into a toddler.

Remember to plan for a nearby trash can or bin for easy disposal of dirty diapers.

Nursery corner with a small white children’s table and chairs set with toys on top, a wooden dresser with drawers, and a woven laundry basket.

Lighting

Pay attention to the lighting in the nursery. A night light is helpful for late-night feedings; dimmers can create a calming atmosphere for bedtime.

Ensure that there are no cords within your baby's reach, and consider room-darkening curtains to help your baby sleep better during nap times.

Nursery Decor

When it comes to nursery decor, choose a theme and color scheme that resonates with your style and preferences.

Common color schemes include neutrals, bright colors, black and white, or gender-neutral shades like yellow or mint green.

Popular themes encompass nature, animals, flowers, space, sports, and construction.

Additionally, you can opt for various design styles, such as traditional, natural/organic, or modern, to create the desired ambiance in the nursery.

Collection of four 3D kids’ bedroom floor plans. Top left: playroom with a road-pattern rug, sofa, and toy table. Top right: nursery with a bassinet, armchair, and round jute rug. Bottom left: soft-toned nursery with a crib, armchair, and large patterned rug. Bottom right: child’s bedroom with a single bed, rocking chair, and colorful car-themed rug.

Plan Your Nursery with RoomSketcher

Designing your baby’s first room doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

With RoomSketcher, you can quickly draw your nursery floor plan, experiment with furniture layouts, and visualize your ideas in 2D and 3D.

  • Create your nursery layout in minutes
  • Test different furniture arrangements with ease
  • Try out colors, themes, and decor styles
  • Visualize the room with Floor Plans, 3D Photos and Live 3D
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