In the early years, babies and toddlers need little in their rooms. Concentrate on buying the basic furniture - a cot, clothes storage, nappy-changing table and feeding chair - and choose surfaces that are practical and comfortable. The prime aim is to create a tranquil environment for you and your child, so that feeding, sleeping and nappy-changing - at whatever time of the day or the night - is reasonably stress-free.

Store clothes instead in wicker baskets on shelves, hanging from hooks or in a conventional chest of drawers that will grow up with the child. Rather than buying a coordinating bed linen, go for a mix-and-match selection. Basics include cotton sheets, blankets, a cot bumper and a quilt; after one year, you can add a pillow and a baby duvet.

Control of natural and artificial lighting is essential. Simple curtains - choose plains, checks or an abstract nursery design. Don't go overboard with nursery decorations in a baby's room. It's much nice to start with a personal collection of treasures. Yet every baby needs stimulating things to look at. Twirling mobiles, a string of bunting, an older sibling's paintings or a shelf full of favourite stuffed animals have a great visual appeal.