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Nursery & Kids Room Tours

Inside Arlenis Sosa's Safari-Inspired Nursery

We stepped inside model Arlenis Sosa's nursery to talk all things motherhood, nursery design, and life with baby Ricky. From the safari-inspired space to slow mornings in the rocking chair, she gave us a peek into what these first few months have looked like.

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There's something about Ricky's nursery that just makes you want to stay awhile. Between the lively mural, countless books, and one very happy baby, it already feels like a room full of memories in the making. So naturally, we had a few questions for Arlenis.

Congratulations on baby Ricky! You’re a few months into motherhood now. What’s something that’s surprised you about this season of life?

Honestly, how much love your heart can hold. Everyone tells you that before you become a mom, but you don’t fully understand it until you’re living it. I’m also surprised by how quickly he’s growing. I really don’t know what I did with my time before him, because today all I want to do is snuggle with him.

You’ve lived such a fast-paced life for so long. What’s something you’ve enjoyed about this slower season at home?

I’ve really enjoyed slowing down and taking it all in. Before, I was always on the go. Now I am so grateful that I can be more intentional with my time...which is now his time. Haha. I love our morning cuddles, walks, reading to him, and simply watching him grow.

Your style always feels effortless. Did that same instinct carry over when designing a nursery, or did you find yourself approaching it differently?

I definitely wanted the nursery to feel fun and magical, a space where my son can dream. Our theme was animal safari which was inspired by the honeymoon that we have yet to plan. I focused on creating a space that feels adventurous and full of life.

The nursery feels playful without feeling over-the-top. How did you strike that balance?

Once we chose the Wild Animals Wall Mural, we wanted that piece to speak by itself, so not piling stuff all over the room was the way for us. This is where I implemented the saying, “less is more”. We added personal details through books, toys, and blankets. I wanted it to feel magical but not too crowded.

What’s usually happening in the nursery around 7 a.m.? Paint us a picture.

I walk in with the biggest smile (he is the happiest baby)! We get the shades up, say good morning, change his diaper, have lots of cuddles, and start the day together. It’s honestly one of my favorite moments. I always think, “how blessed are we to have become your parents?”.

If you had to describe the nursery in just three words, what would they be?

Full of life.

What’s one nursery item that’s earned its place way more than you expected?

The Briar Montessori Bookshelf! I didn’t realize how much we’d love it. In the beginning of choosing our pieces for the nursery we thought of installing shelves on the wall, but the bookshelf caught our eyes and has become one of our favorite pieces.

We love to read to him and having it so close to the chair makes such a difference, we don’t even have to get up from the chair to pick up the books!

Are there parts of your Dominican upbringing that you’re especially excited to share with Richard Jude as he grows up?

Absolutely. Our family values, our traditions, our food, our music, dancing, and especially how close we are as a family. I want him to grow up feeling proud of his Dominican roots and connected to that part of who he is.

Rapid Fire

Coffee or tea? Coffee.

Morning person or night owl? Morning person now… thanks to Ricky!

Nursery Soundtrack? Whatever that keeps Ricky smiling, I have been playing a lot of children's songs in Spanish. He is loving them.

The nursery item you use every day? Our Drift Recliner!

The design detail you still smile at? The mural. I can’t wait to teach him each of the animals' names.

Richard Jude’s favorite place to hang out? When he's not on his play mat, he is in the crib. He's obsessed with the Safari Mobile.

One thing you’re looking forward to this summer as a family? Taking Ricky on our family vacation that John’s family has hosted for the last 40 years!