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In his first collection for West Elm Kids in 2023, fashion designer Joseph Altuzarra looked toward the sky. The moon, stars, clouds, and even zodiac signs played a prominent role in his creations. Two years later, the founder and creative director of Altuzarra has brought things back down to Earth. His second capsule with the brand, out today, draws inspiration from gardens, which he calls “awe-inspiring, whimsical, and restorative”— feelings he hopes the designs will spark in children. “There’s something so beautiful about creating spaces where children can feel calm, inspired, and connected to the world around them,” he says.
By introducing more refined textures and sculptural forms, Altuzarra further channeled the marriage of style and practicality he saw parents gravitate toward in the first drop. Among the 58 additions are a number of pieces that are elevated enough to hold their own in any room of the house.
“I always think the best pieces are the ones that can move with you, not just in a literal sense, but through different chapters of life,” the designer says. Ahead, Altuzarra shares how to take his second West Elm Kids collection beyond the nursery.
Botanical Sconce
Shopping the kids section is always a smart move. The prices are generally more affordable, and the products are often more durable because they’re made with children in mind. In the case of Altuzarra’s West Elm collab, they’re also not overly “baby.”“I wanted to create pieces that engaged with a child’s world while also resonating with the design sensibilities of the parents,” he explains. This plastered fixture would work as a whimsical touch in a powder room or reading nook.
Upholstered Bed
Now the parent of three young children (the youngest a baby, the oldest starting kindergarten) Altuzarra says that he’s much more in tune with things that aren’t just beautiful, but highly functional. “These pieces were designed to age well—not just in terms of durability, but aesthetically, too,” he says. The bed, finished with nubby upholstery and charming legs, would fit right into a pre-teen’s room; it comes in a full size, too.
Fluted Shelving
Fluting appears on multiple products in the collection, and that’s because Altuzarra feels it is playful and light, perfect for young ones. But, combined with natural elements and soft curves, it evokes a sense of warmth and sophistication that isn’t stuck in the playroom.
Vine Stripe and Allover Vines Sheet Sets
“My daughters immediately gravitated toward the botanical bedding—they loved the idea of sleeping under a ‘garden,’” the designer recalls. “I can imagine it becoming a bedtime ritual where we point out our favorite flowers or make up little stories about them.” The tonal colorways keep things versatile, and it’s grown-up enough for a guest bedroom (psst: it comes in queen sizing, as well).
Fluted Bookcase
“I love the idea of the fluted bookcase in a hallway or home office—stacked with books, ceramics, or even toys stored in beautiful baskets,” Altuzarra says. It’s an instant space-maker.