Making Kid’s Spaces Magical AND Meaningful with the Animalcore Aesthetic

When I first started Tiny Toes Design, it was on the heels of creating safari animal nursery art for my own son. My desire to craft something that sparked his curiosity and love for the natural world from a young age, opened my eyes to how powerful art can be in engaging young minds and creating a sense of wonder.

Being asked to share my thoughts on Redfin's Blog - Animalcore Design: The Wild New Trend Galloping into Interior Design about the animalcore aesthetic was such a fun opportunity—it made me realize how intentional, story-rich art can make a real difference in kids’ spaces. Although designers focused on the aesthetic and how to incorporate it into a space, my take was that animalcore isn’t just about cute animals; it’s about connecting us to nature, raising awareness, and supporting conservation in a gentle, meaningful way.

For me, the art I create isn’t just adorable—it’s a bridge to teaching children empathy, curiosity, and respect for wildlife. It’s about planting seeds of love for animals and their habitats, all while making their spaces colorful, joyful, and full of stories.

What excites me most is the idea that each piece of art can help kids understand the importance of conservation, whether it’s featuring animals with a special story or supporting efforts to protect wildlife. These choices not only brighten a nursery or playroom but also help shape compassionate, environmentally-aware minds.

My hope is that parents and caregivers see how choosing meaningful, story-driven art can turn a simple nursery into a space that inspires wonder and instills values for caring for our planet—one adorable animal at a time.

If you're interested in learning more about the Animalcore aesthetic and how to incorporate it into your home, I urge you to check the Redfin piece out.