Natalie Shine, a New York City-based influencer, has taken an innovative approach to preparing for her impending motherhood. With just a month to go before welcoming her first son, Shine decided to transform her apartment’s closet into a charming nursery. This creative transformation reflects both her personal style and the vibrant essence of New York City.
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The project kicked off with discussions between Shine and her husband about how to carve out a dedicated space for their baby in their compact one-bedroom flat. Knowing it wouldn’t be feasible to allocate an entire room, the couple opted for the closet, a decision that required approval from their building management. Subsequently, they enlisted the help of a handyman to dismantle the existing shelves, marking the beginning of the transformation.
Once the necessary structural changes were made, Shine set out to create a serene and whimsical atmosphere. She painted the closet floor a light cream to ensure it harmonised with the rug and the wall colours. Shine describes the subsequent design phase as “the fun stuff,” where her ideas began to take shape through wallpaper and decorative details.
She drew inspiration from various cultural references, including the legendary Bemelmans Bar at the Carlyle Hotel and the beloved Madeline books. With Central Park just a stone’s throw away, Shine felt a strong imaginative connection to the area’s magical identity. “New York City feels like the centre of the world, and I wanted this nook to reflect that,” she remarked. Her choice of wallpaper, sourced from Etsy, was particularly influenced by Ludwig Bemelmans’ artwork, helping to create a playful but sophisticated space for her son.
Realising that precision is crucial when it comes to design, Shine opted to hire a professional decorator from TaskRabbit for tasks that required meticulous attention. “I knew I would regret it if the whimsical animals in the wallpaper didn’t align perfectly,” she confessed. This careful curation resulted in a delightful collaboration that brought her vision to life while simultaneously reinforcing a sense of community.
The meticulous process involved filling the nook with carefully chosen furnishings, including a crib, bookshelves adorned with childhood mementos, and plush toys. Even after the structural work, Shine expressed her excitement for the final touches: “Once the wallpaper was up, I went into full nursery mode, fluffing pillows and arranging teddy bears,” she said, showcasing her eagerness for her little one’s arrival.
Sustainability and durability have also been significant considerations for Shine. She retained some built-in shelving and employed them as book racks, ensuring the nursery was not just decorative but practical. “With a baby sleeping in the space, it’s crucial to do everything right,” she said, emphasising the importance of quality over quick fixes.
What surprised Shine the most throughout this process was the realisation of just how spacious the closet could be. The once-cluttered area now feels like a mini living space tailored for her child. “I cleared out my clothes and even had to make room for my husband’s things,” she explained, adding that friends were initially concerned about her managing her storage needs. Ultimately, she feels this transformation has revealed the potential of often-overlooked spaces.
With the nursery now complete a month ahead of her due date, Shine describes it as a “meditation den” filled with beauty and warmth. “It’s such a wonderful, safe, and inviting environment for our baby,” she reflected. This project has not only served as a creative outlet but also as a heartfelt preparation for an anticipated life change.
Shine has documented the journey on her Instagram and TikTok accounts, garnering mixed reactions. She isn’t surprised by the varied responses, which often range from safety concerns to commendatory remarks about her creativity. “Whenever you post anything baby-related, there’s bound to be feedback—both encouraging and cautious,” she noted. Acknowledging the input of her followers, she appreciates the care that prompts such comments while remaining focused on her vision.
From the outside, the closet may still look unassuming, but opening the door reveals a uniquely designed sanctuary. Shine hopes her transformation inspires others to maximise their space creatively, reaffirming that even the smallest areas can be utilised with thoughtfulness and imagination. “I can’t wait to place my little guy in there,” she added, brimming with excitement for what’s to come.