Thanks again to Ritual for sponsoring this video. I've been taking their prenatal vitamin for so long and I love it! Remember to click here ritual.com/RAYALOUIS30 for 30% off during your first month!
Ahhh Raya you look SO beautiful 😭🤍 I loved watching this video seeing how happy you two are! Can’t wait to see how you turn this beautiful house your home!
I love the idea of a feminine space! I honestly think it’s so healthy for relationships to have their own separate bedrooms almost where it’s just yours because you’re still your own individual and maybe even a place where you just want your own space to sleep in at night as well from time to time so adding a day bed for naps and lounging and making it a yoga/feminine sanctuary is such a good idea!
I think especially since we both work from home it can be so nice to have separate spaces to do our own thing. Especially when we have very different energy (I can totally see if we shared an office/creative space me trying to meditate while Louis is DJing behind me hahaha)
So so so agree with this, especially re: separate places to sleep sometimes. Not something I ever considered until after my last relationship came to a close. Now if I imagine being in a relationship, having separate spaces for sleep, creativity etc as an option just feels so so healthy!
Nursing chair will be perfect in your room. Make sure and get yourself a little cart or something to put snacks and nursing supplies. So happy for you.
Pinterest has a lot of lists wat you can put on your cart, like a Phone charger and a warm blanket for in the chair. Good Luck on the pregnancy ♥️ from the netherlands!
Yes, definitely a cart or small table to put items on you'll need while nursing or snuggling baby - water for sure. An ottoman for putting your feet up to keep swelling away also, and then Louis can use it to sit on while keeping you company. If the feeding area is bothersome to Louis in the bedroom at night you can always move it to another room. If he gets rest it will be easier for him to take over baby care so Raya can rest some during the day.
Totally agree with this!! You don’t need a separate nursery right away this would depend on preferred sleep arrangements. But a changing pad on top of your dresser in your room works well or Chang baby on your bed just have cloth pad under baby boys tend to pee straight up when uncovered! Also you will want a nursing pillow for your chair and once you get the hang of nursing try side lying nursing in your bed for night time or when you or baby need a nap!
Keep the chair in the bedroom and get a comfy place in your living room for nursing, since you’ll spend a lot of time there for the few few months. Don’t worry about the nursery, we didn’t have one, still don’t have one, only now are we thinking Elliot might need a room to himself once he turns 2 lol toddler life. A small bassinet in the living / kitchen area would be good to be able to put baby down when you are cooking or eating. Love the space, will be perfect for you guys and very much needed! Ooo and blackout curtains!! If you haven’t gotten them already in the bedroom is a must. ❤❤
The house looks perfect you two! Sad to not have you in Costa Rica but happy you've found your spot and community for the next stage of your life. Xoxo
@Raya and Louis , I love your new home, the video and you three, soon to be 4. They" ll be plenty time for Costa Rico later when your done building ect. I loved my changing table in the baby room and i would keep an extra changing mat in my diaper bag..Less germs spreading imo..I'm going to enjoy these home videos! I" am quite a bit older than you Rya but after we redid our home after a fire in 2009 I put in a " No shoe Rule" ( lmao you'd think by the way some acted here in the states I was asking for the moon..Stick with it..Luckilly you have a great guy so you won't have problems with that..Take care you two.Rya enjoy these last months being pampered and rest ect..oxo Can't wait. For the next vlog! 💖💕🐾
What I find makes a space immediately feel cozy is never using ceiling lights. Floor lamps or wall lights really bring the mood closer to the floor and create such a warm and inviting space. And rugs of course, which help with the echo a TON. Love the new place! (Also are you looking to adopt a 26 year old? Because that house looks like my dream! My dad's British and my soul has always craved moving there... One day hah)
Louis you were one of the first ever youtubers I consistently watched back in 2012 and now it's 2023 and seeing all the new life changes, it feels so sweet, i've basically grown up with you 🥺
Congratulations again!! I’m a new mom and I would say all you need in the nursery is a crib and a dresser everything else is up to you! You don’t need a changing table, I put together multiple diaper changing baskets together and put them in different rooms that you will spend a lot of time in. And definitely use that room as your feminine room!! This is a great idea for any women and especially a new mom. Having a zen place that you can reconnect to your new body is amazing! I am putting one in our house when we get it😊
Having the nursing chair in your room is a great idea. I learned with my first (and only) that whatever makes things easier for you is what you should do. The first couple months are hard enough... Anything you can do to make it easier is a win. ❤️
I have always found it helpful to have the nursing chair in our room and a bassinet for the first few months. It’s comforting to have them close and when they wake you can nurse and get back to bed pretty quickly ❤️ you can still have the crib in the nursery ect. for those times when you don’t want to disturb the sleeping baby ❤️
I'd say put a chair in both if possible. That way you have a space to get away if Louis needs sleep.... also I always change the baby's diaper b4 feeding, so if the changing table is in the nursery you will be going in there anyway
Bean bags for under the TV! Honestly, I have a small flat with a 2-seater settee but it wasn't big enough for friends to come over. I bought a bean bag and honestly, it's sooo versatile for the space 😊
Raya- highly recommend a getting a couple of boppy nursing pillows!!! You will find yourself nursing all around the house more than you think and it’s so nice to just have the perfect pillow wherever you are.
You two have created such a beautiful space for raising your child and spending time with friends! And all of the plants - love it! I think the plant by your entrance is a Pothos. There is so much life in your home! I don't like to give out advice as I know it can feel critical, especially as new parents (I've been there myself being a first-time mum), however one thing to keep in mind though - you may want to consider bolting tall bookcases/shelves, even dressers to the walls in case baby decides to climb or use them to help them stand. Last thing you want is for the shelf to fall on baby. Love watching your videos! You both are truly inspiring! Thank you for sharing your life, ambitions, and positivity with the world. Much love to you both!
As someone who works for IKEA and knows first hand about the anti toppling devices advised for ALL dressers, bookshelves etc I can’t thank you enough for this timely advice :)
I think once baby arrives, that area near the window you would love having a change table there as it saves you going up and down the stairs when baby is sleeping, so you could make that baby's area with like a small Moses basket for baby to sleep and a change table. My experience of living in a two-storey house with a baby is that there is always a place to sleep and change nappies downstairs for during the day. Saves you going up and down stairs all day
Regarding the nursery, nursing chair, etc.: don’t sweat it. You will be nursing at all times of day, sometimes when you are about to put the baby down to sleep, sometimes when the baby is about to just go on being awake, sometimes when you are going to slip the baby into a wrap or carrier as you go about your day, etc. You’ll end up nursing in most of the seating areas in your house at one point or another, but for when you want to use the nursing time to just chill out, especially at the start when you are getting everything established, the main thing is to be where you are comfortable, and it sounds like that window is a great spot for you. I did a lot of reading while nursing in the first month or two of each of my kids’ lives. A spot with good light, something to look at, and a place to kick up your feet is ideal. You’ll probably establish a second favorite spot in another room for those times that one of you is up with the baby while the other one sleeps, because sometimes that works as a very quiet, in-the-dark, zen experience and sometimes…it is not. The baby will be fine wherever you are, because the main thing that makes the little one comfy is you-your arms, your voice, your breast. Most can adjust pretty well to things like light and even sound and will just conk out no matter what, which is a great habit to establish young so that naps for the next few years can happen as needed wherever you are. Once an infant is asleep, you can carry them pretty far between where you were nursing and where you want to lay them down with no problem-the motion if walking is like a rocker that keeps them soothed. So not being in the same room to nurse as the one where they will be sleeping is no big deal. It’s the laying down part that is tricky (at those times that you are trying to lay them down by themselves, which even the most devoted cosleeping families eventually do for naps when mom and/or dad have things of their own to get done that aren’t babywearing friendly). Sometimes they hit the bed and BOING the kid’s awake again! But overall, infants are way more adaptable than we fear. If you are cosleeping, the nursery is mainly a spot for consolidating their gear. If it’s a good spot for napping, bonus, but it may well mostly end up being diaper storage, wardrobe, and a spot for some naps.
I just used a pack and play with the built in bassinet and changing table options in my room for the first few months. Affordable, portable and convenient.
We really didn’t use the nursery much for the first 6 months of our daughter’s life. She slept in a bassinet in our room and we put the changing mat in our bathroom so we weren’t going back and forth between our room and the nursery in the middle of the night. We even put a tiny fridge in our room to keep bottles to eliminate going up and down the stairs throughout the night. We also had a pack and play with a changing table attachment for day time naps (during the glory days of when she could sleep through anything) that we used on our first floor so that we weren’t constantly going up and down the stairs. Other than storing clothes and her play mat for tummy time, we didn’t start using the nursery until she transitioned to her room at 6 months. You’ll find what works for you though once you’re in the thick of it. Having a newborn is constantly adapting and optimizing to be as efficient and comfortable as possible so that everyone can get as much sleep as they can!
It's amazing how little you need for baby really...a crib and changing table are great. Especially the changing table...not bending over all the time is so nice when changing baby. Since the nursery is so small (and depending on how long you plan on living there) the extra small bedroom at the end of the hall would make a great playroom, with chalkboard paint on one wall, art supplies, toys, books, a fort or teepee for a book nook, maybe a painted mural, maybe a swing, etc. so it's not all in the main living space. For me having toys in a separate room was a game changer for my peace of mind. I don't do clutter well. You guys are becoming so settled in normal life...nesting! Last trimester!!! 🥰
With both of my kids I put the nursing chair in our room where baby was sleeping then just moved it to the nursery when we transitioned them to a crib. Your going to want it close to where baby sleeps! By the window is a great idea as well especially the first few weeks, baby can get vitamin D which is beneficial!
Having your own space as a new mom would be amazing! Somewhere you can go where nobody will expect anything of you and where your personality can just explode. It would be awesome just so you can easily remind yourself who you are
I love that you're not stressing over nesting out the nursery! You're right--the first couple of months, the only real furniture you need is a bassinet for your room. But I highly recommend a sound machine and a swing of some sort so that you have somewhere to put him down when you want to do something in the living room/kitchen or something. Also, the mom cave is extremely important! Definitely prioritize having a space you can retreat to that doesn't collect too much mess when you need a place to recenter. Newborn motherhood is hard, don't forget to love yourself!
I ABSOLUTELY LOVE what you did hanging the pothos plant from the ceiling! I enjoy decorating & I'm so excited to see the vibe you guys go with for the house and how it changes over time.
I got so many stuff and furniture for our first baby and the thing that was useful is a baby basket which had wheels. So I would recommend to get some portable baby bed - so if the little one is asleep and you need to move for whatever reason you can do it easily. For us the things that mad the first 3 months easier: to get a comfy chair in your bedroom in which you can breastfeed and SLEEP comfortably with a baby in your hands. And an easy to open by one hand water bottle 😅😂 These have been working for us, but it might happen that something totally different works for you guys. So I think just keep an open mind and listen to your intuition and feelings ❤️❤️ Good luck! Wish you good health and good sleepy nights!!
Things you need for baby from a mom of 2 who’s youngest is 14mo! Comfortable rocking chair! Bedside crib/ bassinet Snuggle nest or dockatot The changer can be put anywhere but I like being super minimalist and having an organizer that had wipes, diapers and cream that I just took around my house to change anywhere Get some type of baby wearing thing so u can carry baby constantly Don’t bother with big bulky stroller! Get the bugaboo butterfly and adapter for car seat! The butterfly is a awesome travel stroller that will take u from 0-4yrs! Get tones of soft cloths for snot and spit ups!
I looooove designing interiors! It’s so much fun :) 2 small ideas you could do based on your video - you could switch your living and dining areas around - put the tv beside the fireplace? Then you might have more room for seating since it’s less narrow. Nursery - I’d recommend just buying a dresser to use as a change table - much more useful in the future once you’re done with diapers! And put it in the nursery rather than the primary bedroom so you don’t disturb each others sleep when changing the diaper. It’s also good to get the baby used to being in their nursery 😊
Lovely seeing you settle in together. Definitely have all the baby/mom needs as close to your bed as possible. Nursing chair, table beside it for kleenex, wipes, drinking water, lip balm, muslin cloths, breast pads etc. Set up a great change station close by too. Night lights, soft and gentle. So you can keep the waking, feeding, changing transition as gentle as possible for you all. The first few months mean you want everything as simple as possible.
Mom of 3 here :) that rocking chair corner in the bedroom is an absolute dream! Hopefully you'll have the little rocking ottoman that you can put your feet up. The nursery with all the furniture is definitely something the baby will grow into. Dressers, changing table, crib that can turn into a toddler bed, but we definitely co-slept in the early months. We had a pack n play in our room and the rocking chair, my favorite breastmilk foot pump near my rocking chair, some moveable baskets for clothes, baskets, and cloth diapers near my bed. I gave birth in my bedroom, so it always just felt like base camp those first few months, like my bedroom was the second womb. The pack n play was one of the greatest things I ever had for parenting and I used the same one for maybe 10 years. It was baby's first crib. Changing table in my bedroom. Play pen. Nap pen anywhere in the house. Travel bed. Travel changing table. Travel play pen. Seriously the best . Love watching you guys on your life adventure and my wife and I cant wait to see more. Blessings to your growing family 🙏
That front room that's kind of the half hexagon shape, would be an AWESOME reading nook/ mini nursery for the baby when it comes! Lots of natural light and it can still be pretty open (with places to store toys, supplies etc!). Also not a parent (but have worked in childcare and as a nanny for a few newborns) you're not wrong to consider getting multiple nursing chairs and have one each in your most frequented rooms- they're super comfortable and you never know when baby might just want to take a nap while you're holding them (but won't like to be put in a crib etc).
The chair in your room is PERFECT. Put a little side table next to it to keep snacks on, a water bottle, extra diapers and what not. And I would recommend and dresser/changing table combo! Save space and is multifunctional.
I love your ideas for the spaces. Having a nursing chair in your room will be so helpful. You can always move it to a different room later on. As for a changing table - My kiddos are all grown up now, and things have changed. If I were to do things all over again, I'd definitely use a dresser top as a changing table. Supplies can go in the drawer. Just protect the top with a grip mat to protect the dresser top and to hold the changing mat/pad or change basket. I often used the top of my bed and had my supplies in a caddy.
We had our rocking chair in the nursery because I didn't want to wake my husband any time baby needed to nurse. Plus we changed diapers at that time. We also used the nursery and a crib for day time naps. In terms of what was helpful to have around, we still use a diaper caddy. Loads of baby blankets. Unlimited burp cloths. And we love our reusable diapers and spray pal for easy clean up. In all reality, you just need a way to feed baby and safe sleep area :) you'll figure out what works for you.
With a newborn having the chair in your room is so helpful I think. My babies slept in our room for a long time. My 1st had a full nursery we only used for her clothes and for diaper changes 😊 lovely home!!! 11:51
Raya and Louis the house is wonderful. Raya a nursing chair/ or chaise lounge in both your bedroom and the nursery is a great idea. Anything that helps make the first few months easier and convenient is very smart. We love watching you guys and have been following you for quite awhile. Can’t wait for more updates and for the birth announcement.
You guys!! Congratulations on your new home! What an exciting season for you. I wish you all the health, happiness, and peace as you expand your family and start this next adventure. ❤
It’s a beautiful home, there is so much natural light. Yes, put the rocking chair in the bedroom, you will be grateful on nights when baby is having troubles sleeping
That big window by the dining table is SCREAMING to be a little cozy plant reading nook. A big, oversized chair or loveseat, surrounded by plants, maybe even some twinkle lights
Some of the best advice I got as a first time mom was to have a place for baby on each floor of the house! It can be something as easy as a diaper caddy and somewhere for baby to safely sleep on each floor. And I second the white noise machine! It makes such a difference. Some of my favorite things were a boba wrap for baby wearing, flannel burp clothes, baby sleepers that zip from the bottom and a giant cup with a straw that I carried everywhere cause nursing makes you sooo thirsty!
I have a ton of newborn experience and I would recommend getting a rocking armchair chair! Babies love to be bounced/rocked and it can be EXHAUSTING to stand up bouncing them around for hours everyday to get them to sleep. Rocking armchairs are a game changer plus, they're a great place to nurse
NURSERY NEEDS: a comfortable armchair chair / couch type thing, a changing table, a bassinet. cribs take up a ton of space and they dont really need all that space until they're like 6 months +. also, dont bother with a mobile for the crib - they're kinda useless!
also, try to set your whole house up in the next 3 months. you might not have time to do it once you have a baby (hard to imagine, i know but just trust me!)
What an exciting time! I remember my first daughter’s birth and it’s amazing. She is now 18 and it happened in a blink! Savor all of it! In terms of baby set up, for the first few months we had a little bassinet near the bed and a changing table in our room. Every time baby eats it’s a diaper change so you would need to walk to another room if it’s not near you. Also a diaper genie is key as it keeps away the smells! Velcro latched swaddling blankets are a lifesaver…babies seem to break out of regular swaddled blankets and wake themselves up!
Not a mom here, BUT I have watched some other RUclipsrs and their recommendations. One of them mentioned they obviously had baby stay in their room, but when I came to changing time and what not they made sure to do it in the babies room. They also did a lot of nursing, book reading, and rocking chair time in there. When it came time to transition them into their own room, baby was familiar with the space and wasn't as stressed to be sleeping/left alone in there. It was a nice calm, positive space for them to be in. Just a thought! You guys are absolutely amazing and I can just tell you're going to be amazing parents! 💕
Looks awesome for this season in life! It will be so nice to spread out and have family and friends over! You will get a lot of advice so just sharing what worked for me… We did the nursery for our first completely before she arrived and then for our second did nothing until he was six months. They both were in a tiny bassinet in our room until they slept through the night and I mostly nursed in bed at night. The idea of having a special space sounds dreamy! Even just for a change of scenery those first few months when you are nursing round the clock. It’s nice to have little stations set up around the house- by your bed or TV space with all your supplies in a basket (like water, phone chargers, burp cloths, nursing pads, Hakka, diaper and wipes, exct). We still have our rocker, even though our kiddos are old, it’s a special piece of furniture to me!
Congratulations on getting such a nice roomy and comfy house AND in being able to bring Callie with you two (barely a decade ago, the UK would have required her being quarantined in a cage for six months!). Yes, no doubt Callie is happy to be with you two as well as happy to inside a warm house instead of a freezing van. I hope she's able to learn to bark in English so she can make lots of local canine pals- LOL! Oh, I hope you use at least one room there as a dedicated LIBRARY. I know your little one will grow up in an online world but reading physical books to babies TRULY helps them to learn to read and communicate! Thanks for sharing this with us and take care!
I agree with the importance of physical books and definitely did that with my son. Reading daily and especially as part of our bedtime routine was so important. I feel that a separate dedicated room is not necessary and many people do not have that luxury. A shorter bookcase in the child’s room would work well and would make it much more accessible.
For the feminine room, consider a murphy bed. That way, the floor can be clear for yoga and meditation, etc. but a bed will be readily available for when you need the additional space for guests.
Big comfy chair/nursing chair in your bedroom is fine, but also put a chair in nursery with a changing table, crib. That extra room use it as a yoga, mediation room/ spare room with small pull out couch.
What a fabulous home! I actually teared up a bit when you talked about your nursing chair. Some of my most precious memories are nursing my babies. I love the space by the beautiful window. The nice thing is that you can always move it if needed. You will find what works best for you. I found a changing table to be essential and yet my daughter rarely used one for her oldest and thus doesn't have one for her new baby. Such a happy though tiring time! We are also a shoe free home but I understand some flooring makes that difficult. Sorry about the phone!
I’m a mom and I definitely have an amazing nursing chair in our master. Don’t forget a small side table for all that water you will need to drink. Also my child is one and his nursery is still not done. Definitely don’t feel pressured to get that done. I would say a changing table/dresser and maybe some baby toys and books and then eventually a crib :)
Mom of two - chair in your bedroom to nurse is perfect! Also have a bassinet/side crib that attaches to the bed. I also recommend a side table for a book, WATER, and a lamp. As for the nursery we didn’t buy a changing table. Instead we had a chest of drawers with a changing pad on top. Then have a basket with diapers and wipes next to it. With so many levels, just have a changing area on each floor so you don’t have to go up and down so much. Lastly, you are doing an amazing thing growing an being. Your body will do great things in caring for and feeding the baby. Be patient with yourself. Do it your way at the end of the day. You are going to be an amazing mom (and dad)
Baby wise- having little changing stations in each room is really handy (little basket of nappies and wipes) saves you having to go up and down in the day. Have one in your bedroom for night time too. We didn't put our little one in their own room untill they where 1, co sleeping was wonderful, we used a next to me cot initially and then moved them in to our bed when they got a bit bigger and I didn't worry as much! They grow so quickly and when they're still on milk it helps everyone get more sleep if they're close. Have a soft light for night time feeds so you can see without fully waking. Having a little table next to your chair is helpful to have water bottle, snacks or you phone etc in reach, you'll often get pinned down in a spot with a sleeping baby! So think about how things can be next to you in touch reach! Snack and drink stations throughout the house! Haha We didn't furnish nursery untill they where almost one, cot that turns into a toddler bed are good and a chest of draws you can put a changing mat on. You don't need a specific changing table. You often end up doing it on the floor or on a bed/sofa. As long as you have a wipeable mat, one upstairs and one down shoved under the sofa. If you have a csecrion it might be a bit different and a changing table is more helpful. I had a changing table Downstairs and upstairs after my csection as I needed to stand to change them. But I got it off Facebook when baby came and I realised I needed it. Great to have you in the UK, I live in the south West. Followed you guys as individuals and then as a couple, sending love and prayers for this exciting new chapter xxx
Long-time viewer, first-time commenter, I'm so excited to see what you do with this place! What a fun new season of life and I'm excited to follow you as you both decorate and get ready for it.
What a beautiful home! I think you will figure out what to do when the baby comes. I'm "old", so this all comes with a grain of salt, but where your baby sleeps will depend on whether you are light sleepers. I tried having my first baby, who is 44 now, in the same room with us and all I did was listen to him all night. My daughter, who has a 9 mo old now, tried the same thing and ended up with him in his own room. With all the monitors they have now, you'll never sleep through a cry for feeding. However, if you're a sound sleeper, having the baby in the room with you might work. Just remember that it's essential for you to get a good night's sleep as often as you can. You'll be surprised how your baby will determine a lot of how you set up your house. Love the idea of your large space being your work room and you'll probably want a pack and play or crib up there as well, along with a play area for later on. So fun getting your first home and decorating it. Good luck with everything! You'll do great!
Love the new house! Raya definitely use the little room upstairs for your zen space. I have a space that is just for me to do yoga, meditate and chill after a long day at work. Also, get some used pottery and plant your herbs in them and place on the beautiful patio. I have all my herbs in planters right off the kitchen and absolutely love the fact that I can just go right outside the kitchen and pick my herbs when I'm cooking. Another tip, herbs love to be together in a planter. I have a large planter that I put lemon thyme, parsley, rosemary and oregano and they thrive! Good luck finding more cool furniture!
I love hoe you design your home step by step and follow your needs and listening to your feelings then to follow a theme. First I was really overwhelmed by the Pinterest very colorful inspiration picture for the lIving room , but actually I can‘t wait to see it. It will really vibe with your colorful joyful spirits. Love your home and the spirit of it. ❤️
Your long plant is pothos !! Most common variety is golden pothos. Also knows as devils ivy. Great for low light rooms but the more light you give it the more white coloration will show up on the leaves. I love all of the plant babiessss
The fact your kids will be raised in the UK, the US, AND Costa Rica; & will probably have citizenship in all 3 countries (?) is pretty dope! Also, that house is NICE af!
Baby accommodation is so freakin personal. Every family unit is unique. But - I would make the "nursery" into a play space. Changing table, trash can, soft rug, toys/instruments/books. We ended up bedsharing from the get-go because it let me sleep better and it was easy. Then moved babe to sidecar crib til he started pulling up, then a floor mattress next to our bed enclosed in a play pen and now at 3 he is on a queen-sized floor mattress next to our bed. It works great! We only used the nursing chair for a few months, but it was really nice to have when he was a newborn. You'll quickly find what works for you and it's likely to be different than you expected. :)
My son slept in his bassinet in my bedroom for the first couple of months after he was born. Having a nursing chair and a diaper/ nursing cart in the bedroom is very convenient. I also had setup baskets on my nightstand with water and snack and my nursing and pump supplies.
Hey guys, congratulations on moving into Brighton, house looks fabulous! Re nursery, we didn’t end up using our nursery as much and a year on the baby journey is now a play room haha. My nursing chair is there and it’s been the whole time as the room was very sunny in the day and I loved spending those early days in in. Your idea of having it in the bedroom it’s great. I would say have the essential things there it will make your life so much easier. Also would recommend having a changing baskets in almost every space, it’s very handy and saves you trips around the house. I literally spent the first 2 months on the sofa 😂Would recommend a next to me crib for those first months and just keep everything basic, the baby market is so overwhelming and you only end up using a few things anyway. Also if you into baby wearing, get a caboo close to me sling, it’s so easy to on and so comfy to have your baby cuddled up in your chest while able to make yourself a snack, just having your both hands free is great!! Good luck on your journey, you’ll be great parents! 😊 Looking forward to your next video! P.S I’m also Bulgarian and I live in Wales. 😌 Loads of love, Polina xxx
I had three babies and fifteen foster babies, and I never once used (or owned) a changing table. I never once had a nursery as such. I changed my babies on a pad on the floor or on the bed. They slept in my room until they were a few months old at least. A rocking chair in the room the baby will sleep in makes the most sense!
Your new home is so lovely! You wont need as much as you think for a baby. So dont worry ❤️ We just pop a towel on bed or floor for diaper changes. So if space is limited: a bed/crib, dresser (you can put pad on top for changing table), trash can, baby monitor, and cute wall decor and books would be my top suggestions. The zen space is a great idea! You will need that space to take time for yourself and reground ❤️
💯 have a nursing chair in your bedroom where you are most comfortable. Love that the lighting is good. That will help postpartum. I loved having a bassinet for our daughter to sleep next to our bed for the first 4 months.
Wasn't the sunset magical yesterday? Welcome from a fellow Brightonian! Well I'm more in Portslade area and I can say living in these parts as parents to be is the best decision ever! Great that you have more friends also in a similar journey to becoming parents. I look forward to hopefully bumping into you and saying hello! Enjoy settling into your beautiful home, it's gorgeous! 🙌
When my son was really young he slept in our room (until about 8 months), so you might want to consider space for a bassinet in there. I didn’t feel like constantly going in and out of his room at night to pick him up/settle him, much easier right next to me. But then he does sleep better in his own room. In summary barely used the nursery until my son was almost a year and I think that’s pretty common (I’m using my husbands acct, I’m the mum)
Love the house! As a fellow mum, from experience, you should definitely have the nursing chair in your bedroom until baby ready to move to their own space. Also have the changing table and a changing caddy in the main bedroom too. The less you need to do/move in the early weeks the better! xx
The only thing I’d say if you’re sitting doing night feeds in the window in summer, it’ll be bright and sunny at 4am, which will mean you’ll want good shutters/blinds to keep it dark until proper morning time!! x
Embrace every season, I live in the PNW of the states and it can be rainy gloomy and gray much like the UK but it really settles you sometimes and a tip is to have lots of little lamps and strings of lights to make the house look cozy
I’m due in April and we got a co-sleeping wooden bassinet so baby is right beside me when sleeping, but still safe. I’m planning on breastfeeding so (if I had the space) I would totally have a nursing chair in our bedroom. I’m not in an urge to finish a nursery area since baby will sleep in our room and the diaper changing station will be on top of the dresser. So basically we are having a “bedside nursery”. We bought the stokke sleepi oval crib which goes from mini newborn size to almost teen size. But there are lots of co-sleeping bassinets that can attach to your bed ❤
Love your thrifty furniture shopping! Just purchased our first home last year and finding deals is amazing, kind of addictive, and more sustainable all around.
Congratulations on your new home! I love how you guys are so intentional about your space. I'm not a new mom ( my kids are now adults, but will always be my kiddos) and it's just my opinion, but I absolutely love the nursing chair idea in the master. What an amazing home you are creating for the two of you and your little. ❤️ from Saskatchewan
I bought a changing table but never used it. I kept a changing mat under my sofa and had a basket with a few nappies and wipes in downstairs. It was so quick to just grab it, change and then get on with the day. If you do want a changing table buy one that is on the top of a chest of drawers so you can store all of the baby clothes in x
Maybe for the spare room that you're wanting a yoga-ish/ feminine space, you could add a shelving unit for books, crystals, decor, etc. that includes a Murphy bed, that comes down for extra sleeping space on the back wall. Something like a Murphy bed hidden behind french style doors, flanked by two book shelves. add a nice cozy reading chair in the corner, then along the entrance wall add a small entry way shelf, something that could have more decor or crystals anything that would be conducive to a yoga/meditation space. Keep the center open, by just adding a nice throw rug, and you'll have a space to lay a yoga mat in front of the windows and enjoy. 😊
I never used a changing table. I always felt it was a waste of specialized furniture I didn't need. I used a baby changing pad on a bookcase that was at a perfect height, no bending over but not too high. I kept the diaper supplies in a bin on one of the shelves. It was so convenient. For the nursery, just the crib, glider rocker with ottoman with an accent table next to the chair, dresser/ bookcase with the changing pad. .... I love the window idea you had for nursing during the day. You could always put the glider or a club chair (you want arms with the chair for nursing comfortably.)... You are going to do fine with your baby. ... It looks like you plan on co-sleeping... That is totally fine. For myself, I needed the baby in a separate room so I could have my head space too. I needed that rest. My husband was nocturnal so he would bring the baby to me to nurse and put them back when we were done. We have three daughters; 22, 20, 14. Motherhood has been the most rewarding endeavor for me. It is lovely for me to watch you two begin the parenthood journey. ... It takes a lot of patience for a child to raise their parents. 😉
I think a nursing chair and bassinet by the windows would be perfect. With my son I did night feedings in our bed when he slept in our room- the only time we really used his room in the first few months was for the initial diaper changes when he needed frequent feedings.
I would probably move that table into the rounded nook and make another seating area in front of the fireplace...with a couple of chairs or multiple chairs surrounding a round coffee table.
Hi,Congratulations!!!!! My suggestion for your 1st floor is to switch the spaces. Your dining room table can be by the double door patios. The orange sofa against the bay window area, that will give you more room to add a secondary sofa against the wall and even add a chair or two infront of the orange sofa. In the little nook to the left of the fireplace you can put the bookshelf or tv stand.
Newish parent here! Been following you both for forever. A basket with wipes, diapers, and lotions or butt cream is nice to have wherever you are planning on changing. A changing table on top of a dresser is handy because it is a nice hight. Honestly there are so many different opinions it just depends on what flow you both will get into. My only other recommendation is a boppy. It helps to be able nurse or feed the baby with it. Best of luck on your journey into Parenthood. Live in the moment and love each other through it!
Definitely nursing chair in your room. I would also add the changing table if you have the space. Honestly i don’t use the baby’s room yet (bub is 3 months) only for clothes storage and things to use in future. All you need is something to dress the baby (zip up onesies), somewhere for baby to sleep (bassinet), swaddles and changing table 😊. You can get a lot second hand. Once baby is 2 months plus a good bouncer is great. I got the baby bjorne bouncer secondhand and it’s amazing, baby loves it and means some hands free time. Also a good baby carrier is essential 😊
You did a great job for such a short time. Baby essentials per my baby prep class sleeping area (bassinet, later crib) car seat, stroller and/or baby carrier. If you have lots of stairs baby carrier is best. Nursing chair in bedroom & you can always move it later. When you add some art work it feel more finished.
Raya, you are absolutely glowing! The plant is a pothos ivy and is very easy to propagate. The main part of the plant will put its energy into growing the runners. You can take small clippings and place in water to root, a clear jar or container on the widow sill is ideal. In about a week you should see roots, then plant them around the bottom of the plant to keep the ivy nice and full and in return they will grow even more runners. Or you can start more plants around the house. I love following you two and wish y'all the best in this next chapter of your lives. Much ❤ from Texas!
What I would say as a FTM is you won’t use your changing table. Your couch will become your home base so make sure it’s big and comfy. Have a doc-a-tot or something like it for the babes to take naps. Also, Brest feeding can be stressful but take it day by day and know that pumping is not worse. It let us know that our babe was getting enough and she slept so much better (and my husband could help with night feeds). Also, I didn’t feel motivated to work out until 9 weeks PP. take it slow. Your body is going. Through so much. I’m 7 month PP and now just feeling myself. Congratulations!!!
Beautiful home to start your new chapter. I would love to see a couple comfy chairs amongst the plants in the alcove in the living room. What a lovely spot for reading a good book or nursing the baby. Whatever you do I know it will be lovely.
In the fireplace, if you like the idea of light coming from it, you could add fake flickering candles that are turned on by a remote. They’ve been coming out with really nice ones that looks so real.
I co-slept with all three of my kids and can honestly say we used a change station on top of our dresser from the first two and the third just got changed whereever we are on the floor lol I know the need to “nest” but we wasted a ton of money on stuff we never used. Newborns need very little. A super comfy rocking chair is a must. Good luck, your house already looks amazing 😊
😂 my suggestion is to put a double bed (because then their safe,you can snuggle as parents with babe together/enough room and play on it!) in the nursery so that one of you if needed can sleep in the other room if needed while the other is feeding and dealing with baby….it Will change sometimes baby will be in your bed and sometimes maybe in their room but then you will always have a comfortable bed with space …for the other parent…. And feeding chair should go wherever you will feel the happiest! If you have a double bed in the nursery then Louie can sleep in there if your up early in am feeding!
Thanks again to Ritual for sponsoring this video. I've been taking their prenatal vitamin for so long and I love it! Remember to click here ritual.com/RAYALOUIS30 for 30% off during your first month!
If you guys open up a P.O. box in Brighton I'll send you some of my artwork and you can have a gallery/memento wall from all your followers & family.
I assume no luck with phone at 2am?
I loved and enjoyed this share, so many new exciting thing's. Both are beautiful souls....house absolutely gorgeous...
So nice , I would swap the dining and living around , so that the couch faces fireplace x
Thanks for the great video
Ahhh Raya you look SO beautiful 😭🤍 I loved watching this video seeing how happy you two are! Can’t wait to see how you turn this beautiful house your home!
you must come visit Brighton, its my home town and its beautiful!!!!!
Come to UK 💞💞💞 Brighton neet up 🎉🎉
So sweet, ❤️
I love the idea of a feminine space! I honestly think it’s so healthy for relationships to have their own separate bedrooms almost where it’s just yours because you’re still your own individual and maybe even a place where you just want your own space to sleep in at night as well from time to time so adding a day bed for naps and lounging and making it a yoga/feminine sanctuary is such a good idea!
I think especially since we both work from home it can be so nice to have separate spaces to do our own thing. Especially when we have very different energy (I can totally see if we shared an office/creative space me trying to meditate while Louis is DJing behind me hahaha)
Highly underrated concept. Own space saves relationships. 😁
@@RayaandLouis yes I could definitely see that😂
@@T_P_W_ThachoZenjuan yes!!
So so so agree with this, especially re: separate places to sleep sometimes. Not something I ever considered until after my last relationship came to a close. Now if I imagine being in a relationship, having separate spaces for sleep, creativity etc as an option just feels so so healthy!
Nursing chair will be perfect in your room. Make sure and get yourself a little cart or something to put snacks and nursing supplies. So happy for you.
Ohh the cart sounds like a great idea! Thanks!
@@RayaandLouis yes a rolling cart!
Pinterest has a lot of lists wat you can put on your cart, like a Phone charger and a warm blanket for in the chair. Good Luck on the pregnancy ♥️ from the netherlands!
Yes, definitely a cart or small table to put items on you'll need while nursing or snuggling baby - water for sure. An ottoman for putting your feet up to keep swelling away also, and then Louis can use it to sit on while keeping you company. If the feeding area is bothersome to Louis in the bedroom at night you can always move it to another room. If he gets rest it will be easier for him to take over baby care so Raya can rest some during the day.
Totally agree with this!! You don’t need a separate nursery right away this would depend on preferred sleep arrangements. But a changing pad on top of your dresser in your room works well or Chang baby on your bed just have cloth pad under baby boys tend to pee straight up when uncovered! Also you will want a nursing pillow for your chair and once you get the hang of nursing try side lying nursing in your bed for night time or when you or baby need a nap!
Keep the chair in the bedroom and get a comfy place in your living room for nursing, since you’ll spend a lot of time there for the few few months. Don’t worry about the nursery, we didn’t have one, still don’t have one, only now are we thinking Elliot might need a room to himself once he turns 2 lol toddler life. A small bassinet in the living / kitchen area would be good to be able to put baby down when you are cooking or eating. Love the space, will be perfect for you guys and very much needed! Ooo and blackout curtains!! If you haven’t gotten them already in the bedroom is a must. ❤❤
Thanks Nadine!! ❤️
I very much agree with having just one place for only mom. As a mom of 3 having an unwind space that isn't the closet is amazing
The house looks perfect you two! Sad to not have you in Costa Rica but happy you've found your spot and community for the next stage of your life. Xoxo
You can see we’ve got the space for guests too! Please come visit! And we’ll be back with you in the jungle before you know it 🥰
@Raya and Louis , I love your new home, the video and you three, soon to be 4. They" ll be plenty time for Costa Rico later when your done building ect. I loved my changing table in the baby room and i would keep an extra changing mat in my diaper bag..Less germs spreading imo..I'm going to enjoy these home videos! I" am quite a bit older than you Rya but after we redid our home after a fire in 2009 I put in a " No shoe Rule" ( lmao you'd think by the way some acted here in the states I was asking for the moon..Stick with it..Luckilly you have a great guy so you won't have problems with that..Take care you two.Rya enjoy these last months being pampered and rest ect..oxo
Can't wait. For the next vlog! 💖💕🐾
What I find makes a space immediately feel cozy is never using ceiling lights. Floor lamps or wall lights really bring the mood closer to the floor and create such a warm and inviting space. And rugs of course, which help with the echo a TON. Love the new place! (Also are you looking to adopt a 26 year old? Because that house looks like my dream! My dad's British and my soul has always craved moving there... One day hah)
Louis you were one of the first ever youtubers I consistently watched back in 2012 and now it's 2023 and seeing all the new life changes, it feels so sweet, i've basically grown up with you 🥺
Congratulations again!! I’m a new mom and I would say all you need in the nursery is a crib and a dresser everything else is up to you! You don’t need a changing table, I put together multiple diaper changing baskets together and put them in different rooms that you will spend a lot of time in. And definitely use that room as your feminine room!! This is a great idea for any women and especially a new mom. Having a zen place that you can reconnect to your new body is amazing! I am putting one in our house when we get it😊
I agree, I have multiple change pads with a sheet in multiple rules. It helps so much.
Having the nursing chair in your room is a great idea. I learned with my first (and only) that whatever makes things easier for you is what you should do. The first couple months are hard enough... Anything you can do to make it easier is a win. ❤️
I have always found it helpful to have the nursing chair in our room and a bassinet for the first few months. It’s comforting to have them close and when they wake you can nurse and get back to bed pretty quickly ❤️ you can still have the crib in the nursery ect. for those times when you don’t want to disturb the sleeping baby ❤️
I'd say put a chair in both if possible. That way you have a space to get away if Louis needs sleep.... also I always change the baby's diaper b4 feeding, so if the changing table is in the nursery you will be going in there anyway
You can put a variety of candles in the fireplace. Do a search of candles in fireplace for ideas. It's a really cool, romantic vibe.
Bean bags for under the TV! Honestly, I have a small flat with a 2-seater settee but it wasn't big enough for friends to come over. I bought a bean bag and honestly, it's sooo versatile for the space 😊
Raya- highly recommend a getting a couple of boppy nursing pillows!!! You will find yourself nursing all around the house more than you think and it’s so nice to just have the perfect pillow wherever you are.
You two have created such a beautiful space for raising your child and spending time with friends! And all of the plants - love it! I think the plant by your entrance is a Pothos. There is so much life in your home!
I don't like to give out advice as I know it can feel critical, especially as new parents (I've been there myself being a first-time mum), however one thing to keep in mind though - you may want to consider bolting tall bookcases/shelves, even dressers to the walls in case baby decides to climb or use them to help them stand. Last thing you want is for the shelf to fall on baby.
Love watching your videos! You both are truly inspiring! Thank you for sharing your life, ambitions, and positivity with the world. Much love to you both!
As someone who works for IKEA and knows first hand about the anti toppling devices advised for ALL dressers, bookshelves etc I can’t thank you enough for this timely advice :)
I think once baby arrives, that area near the window you would love having a change table there as it saves you going up and down the stairs when baby is sleeping, so you could make that baby's area with like a small Moses basket for baby to sleep and a change table. My experience of living in a two-storey house with a baby is that there is always a place to sleep and change nappies downstairs for during the day. Saves you going up and down stairs all day
Regarding the nursery, nursing chair, etc.: don’t sweat it. You will be nursing at all times of day, sometimes when you are about to put the baby down to sleep, sometimes when the baby is about to just go on being awake, sometimes when you are going to slip the baby into a wrap or carrier as you go about your day, etc. You’ll end up nursing in most of the seating areas in your house at one point or another, but for when you want to use the nursing time to just chill out, especially at the start when you are getting everything established, the main thing is to be where you are comfortable, and it sounds like that window is a great spot for you. I did a lot of reading while nursing in the first month or two of each of my kids’ lives. A spot with good light, something to look at, and a place to kick up your feet is ideal. You’ll probably establish a second favorite spot in another room for those times that one of you is up with the baby while the other one sleeps, because sometimes that works as a very quiet, in-the-dark, zen experience and sometimes…it is not.
The baby will be fine wherever you are, because the main thing that makes the little one comfy is you-your arms, your voice, your breast. Most can adjust pretty well to things like light and even sound and will just conk out no matter what, which is a great habit to establish young so that naps for the next few years can happen as needed wherever you are. Once an infant is asleep, you can carry them pretty far between where you were nursing and where you want to lay them down with no problem-the motion if walking is like a rocker that keeps them soothed. So not being in the same room to nurse as the one where they will be sleeping is no big deal. It’s the laying down part that is tricky (at those times that you are trying to lay them down by themselves, which even the most devoted cosleeping families eventually do for naps when mom and/or dad have things of their own to get done that aren’t babywearing friendly). Sometimes they hit the bed and BOING the kid’s awake again! But overall, infants are way more adaptable than we fear.
If you are cosleeping, the nursery is mainly a spot for consolidating their gear. If it’s a good spot for napping, bonus, but it may well mostly end up being diaper storage, wardrobe, and a spot for some naps.
I just used a pack and play with the built in bassinet and changing table options in my room for the first few months. Affordable, portable and convenient.
We really didn’t use the nursery much for the first 6 months of our daughter’s life. She slept in a bassinet in our room and we put the changing mat in our bathroom so we weren’t going back and forth between our room and the nursery in the middle of the night. We even put a tiny fridge in our room to keep bottles to eliminate going up and down the stairs throughout the night. We also had a pack and play with a changing table attachment for day time naps (during the glory days of when she could sleep through anything) that we used on our first floor so that we weren’t constantly going up and down the stairs. Other than storing clothes and her play mat for tummy time, we didn’t start using the nursery until she transitioned to her room at 6 months. You’ll find what works for you though once you’re in the thick of it. Having a newborn is constantly adapting and optimizing to be as efficient and comfortable as possible so that everyone can get as much sleep as they can!
Putting the nursing chair in your bedroom is an awesome plan . Changing table for nursery is awesome.
It's amazing how little you need for baby really...a crib and changing table are great. Especially the changing table...not bending over all the time is so nice when changing baby. Since the nursery is so small (and depending on how long you plan on living there) the extra small bedroom at the end of the hall would make a great playroom, with chalkboard paint on one wall, art supplies, toys, books, a fort or teepee for a book nook, maybe a painted mural, maybe a swing, etc. so it's not all in the main living space. For me having toys in a separate room was a game changer for my peace of mind. I don't do clutter well. You guys are becoming so settled in normal life...nesting! Last trimester!!! 🥰
With both of my kids I put the nursing chair in our room where baby was sleeping then just moved it to the nursery when we transitioned them to a crib. Your going to want it close to where baby sleeps! By the window is a great idea as well especially the first few weeks, baby can get vitamin D which is beneficial!
Thanks for sharing! ☺️
Having your own space as a new mom would be amazing! Somewhere you can go where nobody will expect anything of you and where your personality can just explode. It would be awesome just so you can easily remind yourself who you are
I love that you're not stressing over nesting out the nursery! You're right--the first couple of months, the only real furniture you need is a bassinet for your room. But I highly recommend a sound machine and a swing of some sort so that you have somewhere to put him down when you want to do something in the living room/kitchen or something.
Also, the mom cave is extremely important! Definitely prioritize having a space you can retreat to that doesn't collect too much mess when you need a place to recenter. Newborn motherhood is hard, don't forget to love yourself!
nobody needs to stress about anything... it's a choice to be calm about things & not worry.
I ABSOLUTELY LOVE what you did hanging the pothos plant from the ceiling! I enjoy decorating & I'm so excited to see the vibe you guys go with for the house and how it changes over time.
I got so many stuff and furniture for our first baby and the thing that was useful is a baby basket which had wheels. So I would recommend to get some portable baby bed - so if the little one is asleep and you need to move for whatever reason you can do it easily. For us the things that mad the first 3 months easier: to get a comfy chair in your bedroom in which you can breastfeed and SLEEP comfortably with a baby in your hands. And an easy to open by one hand water bottle 😅😂
These have been working for us, but it might happen that something totally different works for you guys. So I think just keep an open mind and listen to your intuition and feelings ❤️❤️
Good luck! Wish you good health and good sleepy nights!!
Things you need for baby from a mom of 2 who’s youngest is 14mo!
Comfortable rocking chair!
Bedside crib/ bassinet
Snuggle nest or dockatot
The changer can be put anywhere but I like being super minimalist and having an organizer that had wipes, diapers and cream that I just took around my house to change anywhere
Get some type of baby wearing thing so u can carry baby constantly
Don’t bother with big bulky stroller! Get the bugaboo butterfly and adapter for car seat! The butterfly is a awesome travel stroller that will take u from 0-4yrs!
Get tones of soft cloths for snot and spit ups!
I looooove designing interiors! It’s so much fun :) 2 small ideas you could do based on your video - you could switch your living and dining areas around - put the tv beside the fireplace? Then you might have more room for seating since it’s less narrow.
Nursery - I’d recommend just buying a dresser to use as a change table - much more useful in the future once you’re done with diapers! And put it in the nursery rather than the primary bedroom so you don’t disturb each others sleep when changing the diaper. It’s also good to get the baby used to being in their nursery 😊
Lovely seeing you settle in together. Definitely have all the baby/mom needs as close to your bed as possible. Nursing chair, table beside it for kleenex, wipes, drinking water, lip balm, muslin cloths, breast pads etc. Set up a great change station close by too. Night lights, soft and gentle. So you can keep the waking, feeding, changing transition as gentle as possible for you all. The first few months mean you want everything as simple as possible.
Ooooh, a little plant/reading nook in front of those big beautiful windows would be awesome. Congrats on your new space!
Ahhh you could make a cosy reading nook at the window by the dining table with al the plants! 😊
Yess I love that!
The empty space in the dining room with plants. Initially I thought a bench like a reading book but for your boho feel a swing would be perfect.
Mom of 3 here :) that rocking chair corner in the bedroom is an absolute dream! Hopefully you'll have the little rocking ottoman that you can put your feet up. The nursery with all the furniture is definitely something the baby will grow into. Dressers, changing table, crib that can turn into a toddler bed, but we definitely co-slept in the early months. We had a pack n play in our room and the rocking chair, my favorite breastmilk foot pump near my rocking chair, some moveable baskets for clothes, baskets, and cloth diapers near my bed. I gave birth in my bedroom, so it always just felt like base camp those first few months, like my bedroom was the second womb. The pack n play was one of the greatest things I ever had for parenting and I used the same one for maybe 10 years. It was baby's first crib. Changing table in my bedroom. Play pen. Nap pen anywhere in the house. Travel bed. Travel changing table. Travel play pen. Seriously the best . Love watching you guys on your life adventure and my wife and I cant wait to see more. Blessings to your growing family 🙏
That front room that's kind of the half hexagon shape, would be an AWESOME reading nook/ mini nursery for the baby when it comes! Lots of natural light and it can still be pretty open (with places to store toys, supplies etc!). Also not a parent (but have worked in childcare and as a nanny for a few newborns) you're not wrong to consider getting multiple nursing chairs and have one each in your most frequented rooms- they're super comfortable and you never know when baby might just want to take a nap while you're holding them (but won't like to be put in a crib etc).
The chair in your room is PERFECT. Put a little side table next to it to keep snacks on, a water bottle, extra diapers and what not. And I would recommend and dresser/changing table combo! Save space and is multifunctional.
I love your ideas for the spaces. Having a nursing chair in your room will be so helpful. You can always move it to a different room later on. As for a changing table - My kiddos are all grown up now, and things have changed. If I were to do things all over again, I'd definitely use a dresser top as a changing table. Supplies can go in the drawer. Just protect the top with a grip mat to protect the dresser top and to hold the changing mat/pad or change basket. I often used the top of my bed and had my supplies in a caddy.
We had our rocking chair in the nursery because I didn't want to wake my husband any time baby needed to nurse. Plus we changed diapers at that time. We also used the nursery and a crib for day time naps.
In terms of what was helpful to have around, we still use a diaper caddy. Loads of baby blankets. Unlimited burp cloths. And we love our reusable diapers and spray pal for easy clean up.
In all reality, you just need a way to feed baby and safe sleep area :) you'll figure out what works for you.
Thanks for sharing! ❤️
With a newborn having the chair in your room is so helpful I think. My babies slept in our room for a long time. My 1st had a full nursery we only used for her clothes and for diaper changes 😊 lovely home!!! 11:51
true! same here. having the nursing chair in the bedroom makes a lot of sense! You will never go in a separate room for nursing.
Raya and Louis the house is wonderful. Raya a nursing chair/ or chaise lounge in both your bedroom and the nursery is a great idea. Anything that helps make the first few months easier and convenient is very smart. We love watching you guys and have been following you for quite awhile. Can’t wait for more updates and for the birth announcement.
You guys!! Congratulations on your new home! What an exciting season for you. I wish you all the health, happiness, and peace as you expand your family and start this next adventure. ❤
Thank you! ❤️
The vine plant is a Pothos and they're super easy to propagate ❤
It’s a beautiful home, there is so much natural light.
Yes, put the rocking chair in the bedroom, you will be grateful on nights when baby is having troubles sleeping
That big window by the dining table is SCREAMING to be a little cozy plant reading nook. A big, oversized chair or loveseat, surrounded by plants, maybe even some twinkle lights
Some of the best advice I got as a first time mom was to have a place for baby on each floor of the house! It can be something as easy as a diaper caddy and somewhere for baby to safely sleep on each floor. And I second the white noise machine! It makes such a difference. Some of my favorite things were a boba wrap for baby wearing, flannel burp clothes, baby sleepers that zip from the bottom and a giant cup with a straw that I carried everywhere cause nursing makes you sooo thirsty!
I have a ton of newborn experience and I would recommend getting a rocking armchair chair! Babies love to be bounced/rocked and it can be EXHAUSTING to stand up bouncing them around for hours everyday to get them to sleep. Rocking armchairs are a game changer plus, they're a great place to nurse
NURSERY NEEDS: a comfortable armchair chair / couch type thing, a changing table, a bassinet. cribs take up a ton of space and they dont really need all that space until they're like 6 months +. also, dont bother with a mobile for the crib - they're kinda useless!
also, try to set your whole house up in the next 3 months. you might not have time to do it once you have a baby (hard to imagine, i know but just trust me!)
What an exciting time! I remember my first daughter’s birth and it’s amazing. She is now 18 and it happened in a blink! Savor all of it! In terms of baby set up, for the first few months we had a little bassinet near the bed and a changing table in our room. Every time baby eats it’s a diaper change so you would need to walk to another room if it’s not near you. Also a diaper genie is key as it keeps away the smells! Velcro latched swaddling blankets are a lifesaver…babies seem to break out of regular swaddled blankets and wake themselves up!
Not a mom here, BUT I have watched some other RUclipsrs and their recommendations. One of them mentioned they obviously had baby stay in their room, but when I came to changing time and what not they made sure to do it in the babies room. They also did a lot of nursing, book reading, and rocking chair time in there. When it came time to transition them into their own room, baby was familiar with the space and wasn't as stressed to be sleeping/left alone in there. It was a nice calm, positive space for them to be in. Just a thought! You guys are absolutely amazing and I can just tell you're going to be amazing parents! 💕
What a dreamy space you have found - congrats !
Looks awesome for this season in life! It will be so nice to spread out and have family and friends over! You will get a lot of advice so just sharing what worked for me… We did the nursery for our first completely before she arrived and then for our second did nothing until he was six months. They both were in a tiny bassinet in our room until they slept through the night and I mostly nursed in bed at night. The idea of having a special space sounds dreamy! Even just for a change of scenery those first few months when you are nursing round the clock. It’s nice to have little stations set up around the house- by your bed or TV space with all your supplies in a basket (like water, phone chargers, burp cloths, nursing pads, Hakka, diaper and wipes, exct). We still have our rocker, even though our kiddos are old, it’s a special piece of furniture to me!
Congratulations on getting such a nice roomy and comfy house AND in being able to bring Callie with you two (barely a decade ago, the UK would have required her being quarantined in a cage for six months!). Yes, no doubt Callie is happy to be with you two as well as happy to inside a warm house instead of a freezing van. I hope she's able to learn to bark in English so she can make lots of local canine pals- LOL!
Oh, I hope you use at least one room there as a dedicated LIBRARY. I know your little one will grow up in an online world but reading physical books to babies TRULY helps them to learn to read and communicate! Thanks for sharing this with us and take care!
I agree with the importance of physical books and definitely did that with my son. Reading daily and especially as part of our bedtime routine was so important. I feel that a separate dedicated room is not necessary and many people do not have that luxury. A shorter bookcase in the child’s room would work well and would make it much more accessible.
For the feminine room, consider a murphy bed. That way, the floor can be clear for yoga and meditation, etc. but a bed will be readily available for when you need the additional space for guests.
Big comfy chair/nursing chair in your bedroom is fine, but also put a chair in nursery with a changing table, crib. That extra room use it as a yoga, mediation room/ spare room with small pull out couch.
What a fabulous home! I actually teared up a bit when you talked about your nursing chair. Some of my most precious memories are nursing my babies. I love the space by the beautiful window. The nice thing is that you can always move it if needed. You will find what works best for you. I found a changing table to be essential and yet my daughter rarely used one for her oldest and thus doesn't have one for her new baby. Such a happy though tiring time! We are also a shoe free home but I understand some flooring makes that difficult. Sorry about the phone!
I’m a mom and I definitely have an amazing nursing chair in our master. Don’t forget a small side table for all that water you will need to drink. Also my child is one and his nursery is still not done. Definitely don’t feel pressured to get that done. I would say a changing table/dresser and maybe some baby toys and books and then eventually a crib :)
Mom of two - chair in your bedroom to nurse is perfect! Also have a bassinet/side crib that attaches to the bed. I also recommend a side table for a book, WATER, and a lamp.
As for the nursery we didn’t buy a changing table. Instead we had a chest of drawers with a changing pad on top. Then have a basket with diapers and wipes next to it.
With so many levels, just have a changing area on each floor so you don’t have to go up and down so much.
Lastly, you are doing an amazing thing growing an being. Your body will do great things in caring for and feeding the baby. Be patient with yourself. Do it your way at the end of the day. You are going to be an amazing mom (and dad)
Nursing/bottle feeding chair in the room where baby sleeps is the best! It was a godsend when my son was born.
Baby wise- having little changing stations in each room is really handy (little basket of nappies and wipes) saves you having to go up and down in the day. Have one in your bedroom for night time too. We didn't put our little one in their own room untill they where 1, co sleeping was wonderful, we used a next to me cot initially and then moved them in to our bed when they got a bit bigger and I didn't worry as much! They grow so quickly and when they're still on milk it helps everyone get more sleep if they're close. Have a soft light for night time feeds so you can see without fully waking. Having a little table next to your chair is helpful to have water bottle, snacks or you phone etc in reach, you'll often get pinned down in a spot with a sleeping baby! So think about how things can be next to you in touch reach! Snack and drink stations throughout the house! Haha
We didn't furnish nursery untill they where almost one, cot that turns into a toddler bed are good and a chest of draws you can put a changing mat on. You don't need a specific changing table. You often end up doing it on the floor or on a bed/sofa. As long as you have a wipeable mat, one upstairs and one down shoved under the sofa. If you have a csecrion it might be a bit different and a changing table is more helpful. I had a changing table Downstairs and upstairs after my csection as I needed to stand to change them. But I got it off Facebook when baby came and I realised I needed it.
Great to have you in the UK, I live in the south West. Followed you guys as individuals and then as a couple, sending love and prayers for this exciting new chapter xxx
Long-time viewer, first-time commenter, I'm so excited to see what you do with this place! What a fun new season of life and I'm excited to follow you as you both decorate and get ready for it.
Thank you Brianna! ❤️
What a beautiful home! I think you will figure out what to do when the baby comes. I'm "old", so this all comes with a grain of salt, but where your baby sleeps will depend on whether you are light sleepers. I tried having my first baby, who is 44 now, in the same room with us and all I did was listen to him all night. My daughter, who has a 9 mo old now, tried the same thing and ended up with him in his own room. With all the monitors they have now, you'll never sleep through a cry for feeding. However, if you're a sound sleeper, having the baby in the room with you might work. Just remember that it's essential for you to get a good night's sleep as often as you can. You'll be surprised how your baby will determine a lot of how you set up your house. Love the idea of your large space being your work room and you'll probably want a pack and play or crib up there as well, along with a play area for later on. So fun getting your first home and decorating it. Good luck with everything! You'll do great!
Love the new house! Raya definitely use the little room upstairs for your zen space. I have a space that is just for me to do yoga, meditate and chill after a long day at work. Also, get some used pottery and plant your herbs in them and place on the beautiful patio. I have all my herbs in planters right off the kitchen and absolutely love the fact that I can just go right outside the kitchen and pick my herbs when I'm cooking. Another tip, herbs love to be together in a planter. I have a large planter that I put lemon thyme, parsley, rosemary and oregano and they thrive! Good luck finding more cool furniture!
I love hoe you design your home step by step and follow your needs and listening to your feelings then to follow a theme. First I was really overwhelmed by the Pinterest very colorful inspiration picture for the lIving room , but actually I can‘t wait to see it. It will really vibe with your colorful joyful spirits. Love your home and the spirit of it. ❤️
Your long plant is pothos !! Most common variety is golden pothos. Also knows as devils ivy. Great for low light rooms but the more light you give it the more white coloration will show up on the leaves. I love all of the plant babiessss
The fact your kids will be raised in the UK, the US, AND Costa Rica; & will probably have citizenship in all 3 countries (?) is pretty dope! Also, that house is NICE af!
Baby accommodation is so freakin personal. Every family unit is unique. But - I would make the "nursery" into a play space. Changing table, trash can, soft rug, toys/instruments/books. We ended up bedsharing from the get-go because it let me sleep better and it was easy. Then moved babe to sidecar crib til he started pulling up, then a floor mattress next to our bed enclosed in a play pen and now at 3 he is on a queen-sized floor mattress next to our bed. It works great! We only used the nursing chair for a few months, but it was really nice to have when he was a newborn. You'll quickly find what works for you and it's likely to be different than you expected. :)
My son slept in his bassinet in my bedroom for the first couple of months after he was born. Having a nursing chair and a diaper/ nursing cart in the bedroom is very convenient. I also had setup baskets on my nightstand with water and snack and my nursing and pump supplies.
British born American here. My grandmother lived in Brighton. I loved visiting. Your gonna love it too.
Hey guys, congratulations on moving into Brighton, house looks fabulous!
Re nursery, we didn’t end up using our nursery as much and a year on the baby journey is now a play room haha. My nursing chair is there and it’s been the whole time as the room was very sunny in the day and I loved spending those early days in in. Your idea of having it in the bedroom it’s great. I would say have the essential things there it will make your life so much easier. Also would recommend having a changing baskets in almost every space, it’s very handy and saves you trips around the house. I literally spent the first 2 months on the sofa 😂Would recommend a next to me crib for those first months and just keep everything basic, the baby market is so overwhelming and you only end up using a few things anyway. Also if you into baby wearing, get a caboo close to me sling, it’s so easy to on and so comfy to have your baby cuddled up in your chest while able to make yourself a snack, just having your both hands free is great!!
Good luck on your journey, you’ll be great parents! 😊
Looking forward to your next video!
P.S I’m also Bulgarian and I live in Wales. 😌
Loads of love,
Polina xxx
I had three babies and fifteen foster babies, and I never once used (or owned) a changing table. I never once had a nursery as such. I changed my babies on a pad on the floor or on the bed. They slept in my room until they were a few months old at least. A rocking chair in the room the baby will sleep in makes the most sense!
Your new home is so lovely! You wont need as much as you think for a baby. So dont worry ❤️ We just pop a towel on bed or floor for diaper changes. So if space is limited: a bed/crib, dresser (you can put pad on top for changing table), trash can, baby monitor, and cute wall decor and books would be my top suggestions.
The zen space is a great idea! You will need that space to take time for yourself and reground ❤️
I can't wait to see how you decorate each room! You could do an episode per room!
Thank you Cherry! ❤️
💯 have a nursing chair in your bedroom where you are most comfortable. Love that the lighting is good. That will help postpartum. I loved having a bassinet for our daughter to sleep next to our bed for the first 4 months.
Place to change the baby in your room helps during the night. Dim light & white noise machine helped a lot.
Wasn't the sunset magical yesterday? Welcome from a fellow Brightonian! Well I'm more in Portslade area and I can say living in these parts as parents to be is the best decision ever! Great that you have more friends also in a similar journey to becoming parents. I look forward to hopefully bumping into you and saying hello! Enjoy settling into your beautiful home, it's gorgeous! 🙌
When my son was really young he slept in our room (until about 8 months), so you might want to consider space for a bassinet in there. I didn’t feel like constantly going in and out of his room at night to pick him up/settle him, much easier right next to me. But then he does sleep better in his own room. In summary barely used the nursery until my son was almost a year and I think that’s pretty common (I’m using my husbands acct, I’m the mum)
Love the house! As a fellow mum, from experience, you should definitely have the nursing chair in your bedroom until baby ready to move to their own space. Also have the changing table and a changing caddy in the main bedroom too. The less you need to do/move in the early weeks the better!
xx
The only thing I’d say if you’re sitting doing night feeds in the window in summer, it’ll be bright and sunny at 4am, which will mean you’ll want good shutters/blinds to keep it dark until proper morning time!! x
Embrace every season, I live in the PNW of the states and it can be rainy gloomy and gray much like the UK but it really settles you sometimes and a tip is to have lots of little lamps and strings of lights to make the house look cozy
Yess we need some string lights!
I’m due in April and we got a co-sleeping wooden bassinet so baby is right beside me when sleeping, but still safe. I’m planning on breastfeeding so (if I had the space) I would totally have a nursing chair in our bedroom. I’m not in an urge to finish a nursery area since baby will sleep in our room and the diaper changing station will be on top of the dresser. So basically we are having a “bedside nursery”. We bought the stokke sleepi oval crib which goes from mini newborn size to almost teen size. But there are lots of co-sleeping bassinets that can attach to your bed ❤
Love your thrifty furniture shopping! Just purchased our first home last year and finding deals is amazing, kind of addictive, and more sustainable all around.
Lovely lovely update. Get a ball pit for the zen room. Fabulous for babies to play so you can have ten minutes. Baby equipment takes up so much space!
Definitely need a comfy rocking chair for the nursery. Such a game changer when you need a quiet space to rock baby to sleep.
Congratulations on your new home! I love how you guys are so intentional about your space. I'm not a new mom ( my kids are now adults, but will always be my kiddos) and it's just my opinion, but I absolutely love the nursing chair idea in the master. What an amazing home you are creating for the two of you and your little. ❤️ from Saskatchewan
I bought a changing table but never used it. I kept a changing mat under my sofa and had a basket with a few nappies and wipes in downstairs. It was so quick to just grab it, change and then get on with the day. If you do want a changing table buy one that is on the top of a chest of drawers so you can store all of the baby clothes in x
Maybe for the spare room that you're wanting a yoga-ish/ feminine space, you could add a shelving unit for books, crystals, decor, etc. that includes a Murphy bed, that comes down for extra sleeping space on the back wall. Something like a Murphy bed hidden behind french style doors, flanked by two book shelves. add a nice cozy reading chair in the corner, then along the entrance wall add a small entry way shelf, something that could have more decor or crystals anything that would be conducive to a yoga/meditation space. Keep the center open, by just adding a nice throw rug, and you'll have a space to lay a yoga mat in front of the windows and enjoy. 😊
I never used a changing table. I always felt it was a waste of specialized furniture I didn't need. I used a baby changing pad on a bookcase that was at a perfect height, no bending over but not too high. I kept the diaper supplies in a bin on one of the shelves. It was so convenient. For the nursery, just the crib, glider rocker with ottoman with an accent table next to the chair, dresser/ bookcase with the changing pad. .... I love the window idea you had for nursing during the day. You could always put the glider or a club chair (you want arms with the chair for nursing comfortably.)... You are going to do fine with your baby. ... It looks like you plan on co-sleeping... That is totally fine. For myself, I needed the baby in a separate room so I could have my head space too. I needed that rest. My husband was nocturnal so he would bring the baby to me to nurse and put them back when we were done. We have three daughters; 22, 20, 14. Motherhood has been the most rewarding endeavor for me. It is lovely for me to watch you two begin the parenthood journey. ... It takes a lot of patience for a child to raise their parents. 😉
I think a nursing chair and bassinet by the windows would be perfect. With my son I did night feedings in our bed when he slept in our room- the only time we really used his room in the first few months was for the initial diaper changes when he needed frequent feedings.
I would probably move that table into the rounded nook and make another seating area in front of the fireplace...with a couple of chairs or multiple chairs surrounding a round coffee table.
A wellness room is a gorgeous idea! 🥰 Raya, you are so beautiful. I’m so happy for you both. Xxx
Hi,Congratulations!!!!! My suggestion for your 1st floor is to switch the spaces.
Your dining room table can be by the double door patios.
The orange sofa against the bay window area, that will give you more room to add a secondary sofa against the wall and even add a chair or two infront of the orange sofa.
In the little nook to the left of the fireplace you can put the bookshelf or tv stand.
Newish parent here! Been following you both for forever. A basket with wipes, diapers, and lotions or butt cream is nice to have wherever you are planning on changing. A changing table on top of a dresser is handy because it is a nice hight. Honestly there are so many different opinions it just depends on what flow you both will get into. My only other recommendation is a boppy. It helps to be able nurse or feed the baby with it. Best of luck on your journey into Parenthood. Live in the moment and love each other through it!
Definitely nursing chair in your room. I would also add the changing table if you have the space. Honestly i don’t use the baby’s room yet (bub is 3 months) only for clothes storage and things to use in future. All you need is something to dress the baby (zip up onesies), somewhere for baby to sleep (bassinet), swaddles and changing table 😊. You can get a lot second hand. Once baby is 2 months plus a good bouncer is great. I got the baby bjorne bouncer secondhand and it’s amazing, baby loves it and means some hands free time. Also a good baby carrier is essential 😊
You did a great job for such a short time. Baby essentials per my baby prep class sleeping area (bassinet, later crib) car seat, stroller and/or baby carrier. If you have lots of stairs baby carrier is best. Nursing chair in bedroom & you can always move it later. When you add some art work it feel more finished.
Raya, you are absolutely glowing! The plant is a pothos ivy and is very easy to propagate. The main part of the plant will put its energy into growing the runners. You can take small clippings and place in water to root, a clear jar or container on the widow sill is ideal. In about a week you should see roots, then plant them around the bottom of the plant to keep the ivy nice and full and in return they will grow even more runners. Or you can start more plants around the house. I love following you two and wish y'all the best in this next chapter of your lives. Much ❤ from Texas!
What I would say as a FTM is you won’t use your changing table. Your couch will become your home base so make sure it’s big and comfy. Have a doc-a-tot or something like it for the babes to take naps. Also, Brest feeding can be stressful but take it day by day and know that pumping is not worse. It let us know that our babe was getting enough and she slept so much better (and my husband could help with night feeds). Also, I didn’t feel motivated to work out until 9 weeks PP. take it slow. Your body is going. Through so much. I’m 7 month PP and now just feeling myself. Congratulations!!!
So happy for you guy's.Enjoy as u create.your home for your present new season.Stay inspired.
I always did nap time in their room. Definitely the changing table.
Beautiful home to start your new chapter. I would love to see a couple comfy chairs amongst the plants in the alcove in the living room. What a lovely spot for reading a good book or nursing the baby. Whatever you do I know it will be lovely.
In the fireplace, if you like the idea of light coming from it, you could add fake flickering candles that are turned on by a remote. They’ve been coming out with really nice ones that looks so real.
I co-slept with all three of my kids and can honestly say we used a change station on top of our dresser from the first two and the third just got changed whereever we are on the floor lol I know the need to “nest” but we wasted a ton of money on stuff we never used. Newborns need very little. A super comfy rocking chair is a must. Good luck, your house already looks amazing 😊
😂 my suggestion is to put a double bed (because then their safe,you can snuggle as parents with babe together/enough room and play on it!) in the nursery so that one of you if needed can sleep in the other room if needed while the other is feeding and dealing with baby….it Will change sometimes baby will be in your bed and sometimes maybe in their room but then you will always have a comfortable bed with space …for the other parent…. And feeding chair should go wherever you will feel the happiest! If you have a double bed in the nursery then Louie can sleep in there if your up early in am feeding!