Creating a peaceful sanctuary for little ones starts with selecting a neutral palette. Kiera Buckley-Jones explores why…

Babies are born with poor eyesight that takes a while to adjust to the world around them. Recent studies have shown that neutral shades, such as off-white, grey and beige, are beneficial – in fact, they can have a calming effect on babies, “which can help soothe them to sleep and reduce stress” (Morais, 2020).

For the first three months, a baby will only see in black, white and grey, it is not until between five and eight months that their vision and perception of colour fully develops. This coincides with when it’s advised that they can now safely sleep in their own room. At this stage, everything they encounter is new and they risk being overstimulated. So, go for the least distractions possible. A calm palette will help with focus and concentration, “as they are less stimulating than vivid colours” (Kaminsky, 2019).

Consider walls painted in understated hues combined with classic white furniture and open rattan storage where splashes of brighter colours from toys and books will stand out. Add gentle touches of personality with bed linen featuring delicate patterns, such as a small-scale gingham, floral or star motifs. You could try textures and layer in wool blankets and sheepskin rugs, as children are drawn to their tactile qualities.

As a child develops and becomes receptive to different colours and patterns, a calm decorating scheme can be adapted easily. Colour can be introduced with furniture in a contrasting shade: a mural, framed artworks, or a rug in a lively design.

To make the neutrally decorated room more fun, why not paint the woodwork in an unexpectedly vivid shade, create horizontal stripes using different tones of the same colour or perhaps create a tongue and groove wall to add another dimension. Be mindful of mucky little handprints and use a paint that can be wiped clean easily.

Above all remember, bedrooms need to be a place for rest and recouperation. So whether it's a sanctuary for children or adults, there needs to be a strong element of calm to encourage sleep – which is why choosing neutral tones is a good place to start.

Is it a south- or north-facing room? Ideally you want it to be lighter in the mornings and darker in the evenings to encourage sleep. Off-white walls are more welcoming than crisp white and will show the rays of light as the sun rises.

Blues and greens are associated with calmness and relaxation, they reference what we see in a natural landscape and how it makes us feel. Imagine lush verdant hills next to a clear still lake.

Pink doesn’t always have to be just for girls, this warm yet light hue looks great against pale wood furniture, white woodwork, and cream blankets.

Kiera Buckley-Jones is a contributor to “Homes & Gardens”, “The Times”, “Livingetc” and “Homes & Antiques”. Follow her @kierastyleeditor