The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Nursery Wall Art: Safari & Woodland Animal Themes

Decorating a nursery is one of the most exciting parts of preparing for a baby! Wall art plays a huge role in setting the mood of the space, and animal-themed prints—especially safari and woodland creatures—are timeless choices that bring warmth, charm, and a touch of adventure to the room. If you’re trying to decide between the two or want to mix and match, this guide will help you create a beautifully designed nursery that both you and your little one will love.

1. Why Choose an Animal-Themed Nursery?

Animals have a universal appeal, making them a great theme for a nursery. They spark a child’s curiosity, bring a sense of comfort, and seamlessly blend into different decor styles. Safari animals like elephants and giraffes feel adventurous, while woodland animals like foxes and owls create a cozy and whimsical atmosphere.

2. Safari vs. Woodland: Which Theme Fits Your Style?

Both themes are adorable, but they give off very different vibes. Here’s how to decide which one suits your nursery:

Safari-Themed Nursery:

• Perfect for parents who love a bold, adventurous look.

• Features warm, earthy tones—think tans, golds, and soft browns.

• Popular animals: Elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and monkeys.

• Complements natural materials like rattan, wicker, and wood.

• Works beautifully with tropical plants for a jungle feel.

Woodland-Themed Nursery:

• Great for a soft, cozy, and storybook-like setting.

• Features cool and muted colors—like forest greens, soft grays, and warm browns.

• Popular animals: Foxes, owls, deer, bears, and rabbits.

• Complements rustic and farmhouse-inspired decor.

• Pairs well with knitted blankets, tree stump side tables, and cozy rugs.

3. Choosing the Right Color Palette

The right colors can enhance the theme and create a soothing environment for your baby. Here are some ideas:

• For a Safari Nursery: Neutral beige, sandy tones, mustard yellow, and olive green.

• For a Woodland Nursery: Soft gray, forest green, blush pink, and warm brown.

If you want to mix the two themes, stick to earthy, nature-inspired colors that tie everything together.

4. Arranging Your Wall Art

Once you’ve chosen your prints, it’s time to arrange them in a way that makes an impact. Some ideas include:

• Above the Crib or Changing Table: A large statement piece or a set of three coordinating prints.

• Gallery Wall: A mix of framed animal prints with name plaques or meaningful quotes.

• Floating Shelves: Small framed prints paired with stuffed animals, books, and decorative elements.

5. Mixing and Matching Elements

If you can’t choose between safari and woodland, why not blend them together? Here’s how:

• Stick to a neutral base so that both themes blend naturally.

• Mix one or two animals from each theme for a balanced look.

• Use nature-inspired decor like wooden accents, woven baskets, and leafy garlands.

6. Where to Find the Perfect Prints

Look for high-quality prints that will grow with your child. Choose timeless, gender-neutral pieces you won’t need to replace in a year or two.

For beautifully designed safari and woodland-themed wall art, check out PLAY & OAK. Their high-quality prints are perfect for creating a magical and inspiring nursery space.

Whether you go all-in on a safari or woodland theme—or decide to mix the two—your nursery should feel like a warm and inviting space. By choosing the right wall art, color palette, and decor elements, you’ll create a room that feels magical and inspiring for years to come!