Professional football isn’t necessarily synonymous with cute and cuddly, but when Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. is off the field, he’s all about the cozy nursery he and his wife, Kianna Pittman, created for their daughter, Mila. The couple has a popular YouTube channel, too — “Michael and Kianna” — where they welcome fans into their day-to-day family life, so sharing elements of the special new space was a no-brainer.

Michael’s favorite piece? “The Souk Nursery Rug, because it’s a soft and safe play area where we can spend time with our daughter,” Kianna says, with Michael adding: “Kianna’s favorite pieces are the Mid-Century Narrow Tower Bookcase and the Modern Icon Mobile.” For inspiration with their modern-safari theme, the couple turned to Pottery Barn Kids early on. “As soon as we found out that we were having a baby, we would look at rooms designed by Pottery Barn Kids.” the two say.

Indianapolis-based, Design Crew Expert Hannah Carlock was ready to collaborate and help bring their sweet and sophisticated vision to life. The process started with the Pittmans gathering their inspiration into one central place. “We wanted the space to feel functional and modern, but still reflect our little girl. We added all our favorite designs to a Pinterest board, and the team did an amazing job of incorporating our pins into the room,” the two explain

The couple chose modern-classic furniture and a soothing color palette to anchor the decor. “We have always been attracted to neutrals for our home, and we wanted to stick to the same tones for our nursery,” the Pittmans explain. The PBK x West Elm Mid-Century Crib became the focal point of the room, and as a bonus it can convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. The couple chose the Phoenix Swivel Recliner as their comfortable snuggle time go-to and the Sloan Extra-Wide Dresser for its ample storage and changing table topper.

With their foundational pieces in place, Carlock helped the couple layer in decorative details that added color, texture and a sense of play. Gold accents complement the chic neutral aesthetic, while pops of pink create a sense of relaxation and comfort. “[Everything] reflects Kianna and our daughter’s personalities because of the soft, gentle design. The art and wallpaper really made it all come together,” Michael says. A sprinkle of plush toys adds the final touch to their safari space. “The finished design surpassed our vision. It’s cute and girly, while also being sophisticated and beautiful,” the couple says.

Photography: Courtney Shea Smith – Owner of Ninety Three Creative @creativeninetythree