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Ever wish you could shrink your furniture and use it for your nursery, rather than rely on the cutesy pieces that typically make up a retailer’s kids’ section? That’s exactly what Leanne Ford did for her first collaboration with Crate & Kids. Everything is a mini replica of her debut Crate & Barrel line (her most recent iteration just launched yesterday) down to the arched forms, cool caning details, and calming monochrome palette. “I wanted these pieces to live in the same house, and we used the same formula of traditional materials with playful lines to add a modern feeling,” explains Ford.
This collection is extra personal for her: As a new mom to 1-year-old daughter, Ever, she used her experience as a guide. “I have a new understanding of what parents and kids need,” she says. Number one on the priority list? “Comfort—which I would have never said before having a baby!” Part of this has to do with a strategic layout; she recommends keeping chairs and tables away from the wall and grouping things in the middle to create a cozier environment. As long as the silhouettes are simple (as hers are), it won’t look cluttered. “Life is so chaotic and having a baby is chaotic, so I wanted to offer a moment of serenity,” says Ford.
Her hope is that the pieces in the launch will be used for multiple generations, reimagined with new purpose as your baby grows. These five versatile picks will definitely age well.
The Glider
“This is my pride and joy,” says Ford of her favorite piece. “I put in my research, having had a newborn at the time. I knew exactly what I wanted it to feel like, as a mother, and exactly what I wanted it to look like, as a designer.” Channel lines meet plush bouclé—plus there’s a matching ottoman with storage. Later, you can bring the stool to the living room and have it double as extra seating.
The Changing Table
We’ll admit it—we want this storage unit for our own bedrooms. Luckily that can be arranged: The changer top is really just a solid oak tray, which can easily be removed so you can use it as a dresser for years to come.
The Bed
Who says you can’t go high contrast in a kid’s room? “Any preconceived notions you have of using black in a nursery, you have to throw out the window,” says Ford. “Bring in a little bit of rock-and-roll!” This canopy style will see your kid through to the tween years—and the upholstered headboard instantly elevates it.
The Bookcase
Bring architectural interest to any space with an arched shelving unit. This white oak option has plenty of room for color-coded books and favorite stuffed animals. Keep your toddler’s most-used items on the lower shelves so they can learn to pick them out (and put them back) on their own.
The Play Table
This is the kiddie version of Ford’s Willy Pedestal Bistro Table, and it’s every bit as stylish. “Right now, I love layering coffee tables and putting a few together at different heights,” says Ford. “This would be a great high option.” Whether a living room accent, arts and crafts station, or very chic homeschooling desk—we predict you’ll get lots of use out of it for the foreseeable future.
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