When it comes to a nursery, it’s tempting to spend money to make it a dream room for your new child. Wallpaper, furniture and even rugs that say “baby” are an appealing option as you prepare for your little one’s arrival.

But that baby won’t stay an infant or toddler forever, and it pays to buy and decorate with the future in mind.

Let’s look at this nursery from Fulton Home’s Harmonique model at Ashcreek. The crib is classic and charming, but there’s much more to it than that. It converts to a toddler bed and later to the headboard and footboard of a double bed. This simple piece of furniture can go from nursery through high school with just a few adjustments. Choosing a classic cherry stain makes it even more versatile.

The wall design is charming and perfect for a nursery, and it really creates a darling environment. The border is wide enough to make a statement in the room and choosing a design like this that doesn’t immediately say “baby” also makes it able to last for a number of years. But the time will come when the elephants have to come down, and by choosing to use large border wallpaper the task is so much simpler than with a fully-wallpapered room.

The other child-like elements in the room such as the window valance, lamp and accessories are inexpensive enough to be replaced when the décor needs to be more mature. With the neutral carpeting and blinds, this room is large and flexible enough to grow as your child does.