Mother’s Day Special: An Interview with Stylist Isabella Walker-Smith on Family, Design, and the Power of a Second Nursery

This Mother’s Day, we sit down with stylist and mother Isabella Walker-Smith to explore how a deeply rooted family tradition inspired her to create a second nursery at her parents’ home—and how this decision has enriched her parenting journey and deepened intergenerational bonds.

Q: Isabella, what inspired you to create a second nursery at your parents’ home? 
Isabella: It’s very much a family ritual. My maternal grandmother always had a dedicated space for us when we visited—complete with a bed, cot, books, and toys. So when I became a mother, continuing that tradition just felt natural. We believe in the magic of intergenerational living. It celebrates the special bond between the oldest and youngest members of the family. Rupert absolutely adores spending the night at his grandmother’s—he’s already so close to her. It’s a wonderful way to foster connection and well-being across generations.

Q: How does having that second nursery support you in your daily parenting life? 
Isabella: It’s a game changer. Being able to drop Rupert off for a lunchtime nap at Mum’s gives me a little window to get things done—work, errands, even a bit of rest—knowing he’s safe and happy. It’s all seamless thanks to having a matching setup at both homes. We use Mocka furniture at home and at my parents’ place, so he feels right at home in both spaces.

Q: What were your top priorities when designing the second nursery? 
Isabella: Familiarity and calm were key. I kept the palette soft and neutral—similar to his room at home—and incorporated matching furniture and decor to ease transitions. The ‘Sonata’ cot is visually close to his original Mocka ‘Josephine’ cot, which sold out. We even reused wall decals and replicated his favourite play pieces like the 3-in-1 Sensory Play Table. It creates consistency, which is especially important for sleep routines and play.

Q: How did you balance your design style with your parents’ home aesthetics? 
Isabella: It was important to me that Rupert’s presence felt integrated, not sectioned off. I love the ‘living room child’ trend I’ve seen on TikTok—where kids are part of shared spaces, not hidden away in their rooms. Mocka’s creamy, latte-toned furniture fits beautifully with my mum’s earthy colour palette. It’s child-friendly, but still elegant and cohesive with the home’s existing style. 

Q: Which Mocka pieces did you choose for the nursery, and why? 
Isabella: The ‘Sonata’ cot is the centrepiece—its warm bronze tone is gorgeous and fits so well in Mum’s home. Rupert spends hours at the 3-in-1 Sensory Play Table, paired with the Mini Moo Stools in Beige. That little setup has become his workstation—it’s where he eats, draws, plays, and reads when we visit.

Q: Did you consider how the nursery would evolve as Rupert grows? 
Isabella: Definitely. I wanted pieces that would last. The ‘Sonata’ cot is not only beautiful but built to endure. It’s one of those timeless pieces we’ll pass on—my brother and sister-in-law have already called dibs when Rupert outgrows it! Investing in quality pieces with longevity was key.

Q: Did your parents help you set up the nursery? 
Isabella: My husband gets all the credit for building the cot and play table—he’s the practical one! But my mum worked her magic on the finishing touches—cot skirts, cushions, bedding. She has such an eye, and if you’ve read her design books, you’ll know she’s the master of cozy elegance. 

Q: What would you say to other parents thinking of creating a second nursery at a grandparent’s house? 
Isabella: Do it. If you’re lucky enough to have parents nearby, embrace the support and the shared experience. There’s nothing like watching your child connect with your parents—it’s this emotional loop that’s so profound. Plus, it’s a glimpse of how your parents once parented you. It’s heart-melting.

Q: How has this second nursery changed the way your family spends time together? 
Isabella: It’s added this lovely rhythm to our lives—Rupert naps while we have long lunches, or we drop by spontaneously for a playdate or dinner. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about connection and building memories together.

Q: Lastly, what does “it takes a village” mean to you as a parent? 
Isabella: My mum is my village—always has been. Every new stage of parenthood reminds me of how effortless she made it look. I’m constantly asking, “How did you do it all?” You develop such deep respect for your own mother when you become one yourself. They’re the original superheroes. And now, she’s a superhero grandmother to Rupert. I’m so thankful to have her by my side. 

Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers, grandmothers, and caretakers out there—past, present, and future.