A room to grow up in: why Butterflies wallpaper was the perfect choice for this little girl's room
We are simply head-over-heels in love with Mary Lauren Gunn's makeover of her daughter Clara's bedroom. The formerly dark, cave-like space became bright, beautiful and cheerful with the help a sweet and happy color palette, soft and inviting linens and Butterflies galore. Both Clara and Mary Lauren adore it which makes us so happy. We dive into the details of this delightful project with Mary Lauren below.
*All images are credited to Mary Lauren Gunn
Why did you choose Butterflies wallpaper for your daughter’s room? What does it add to the space?
This wallpaper called to me immediately. It was not even a question. When I learned that the paper was a collaboration between Hygge + West and Nathalie Lete, it made so much sense. I am always drawn to her beautiful and whimsical designs.
What was the overall inspiration for the room and how did you then go about designing it?
With any space, I start with the one or two pieces I cannot live without and then wing it from there. For this room, the original mood board included the Butterflies wallpaper and a rug by Justina Blakeney I have had my eyes on for months, two elements I loved and thought could be really fun together. I wanted the room to feel whimsical, childlike, but also not too young -- something that she can grow into for the next few years. From there, the “fairy in the woods/modern cottage-core/glam” vibe emerged.
The mismatched pattern bedding, the little strawberry dish, the textured linen canopy over the reading nook, crystal lamps, acrylic bookshelves and little woodland characters in the tree house -- it feels so sweet and whimsical with a touch of glam. We also considered that if this were to turn into an adult bedroom/guest bedroom later down the road, would these pieces and wallpaper still stand? I think YES, the butterflies are so versatile and can work in so many different spaces.
"This wallpaper called to me immediately. It was not even a question."
What was Clara’s reaction to seeing her finished room?
She is OBSESSED with the butterflies. Still talks about them every time we go into her room. We posted a video on our Instagram account sharing her reaction to the half finished wallpaper. Safe to say, she is a huge fan.
You used Piedmont (Taupe) in your adorable boys’ room. Did you consider how the two wallpapers would tie together/create overall cohesiveness? What factors do you consider when selecting wallpaper?
I keep coming back to this word “whimsical.” I think Hygge & West has a way of creating beautiful wallpapers that have that sophisticated whimsy. The boys' room and Clara’s room feel very similar to me in that they both have a touch of sophistication to them but are still childlike and full of wonder and curiosity. I wanted the boys room to feel like Ralph Lauren meets Wes Anderson, and now Clara’s room is Stella McCartney also meets Wes Anderson :)
Both of these wallpapers are incredibly interesting on their own, but don’t overpower. Butterflies and Piedmont create such a beautiful backdrop that can really be so versatile with the decor and furniture pieces. When choosing wallpaper I want a statement, but one that can blend and be a cohesive part of the space.