When Declan Donnelly, one half of the beloved British presenting duo Ant and Dec, announced the arrival of his third child, the world couldn’t wait to catch a glimpse of how this TV icon would welcome his newest family member. Known for his infectious charm and down-to-earth personality, Dec has always kept his family life relatively private. But recently, he pulled back the curtain just enough to reveal a breathtaking nursery designed for his youngest daughter, Isla Elizabeth Anne, born in 2022 to him and his wife, Ali Astall. Fans have dubbed it “a fairytale come to life,” and it’s easy to see why. This enchanting space, crafted with love and imagination, is a testament to Dec’s devotion as a father and his flair for creating something truly magical. Let’s step inside this whimsical wonderland and explore what makes it so special.
A Growing Family and a New Chapter
Declan Donnelly, affectionately known as Dec, has been a household name in the UK for decades, thanks to his dynamic partnership with Anthony McPartlin on shows like I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! and Britain’s Got Talent. Off-screen, however, Dec’s greatest role is as a family man. He and Ali, who married in 2015, are parents to three children: Isla, born in 2018; Jack, born in 2022; and their newest addition, another daughter, also named Isla, born later in 2022. The couple’s journey into parenthood has been a heartwarming one, with Dec occasionally sharing glimpses of his life as a dad, from sleepless nights to joyful milestones.
The reveal of the nursery for their third child came as a delightful surprise to fans, who have followed Dec’s family updates with enthusiasm. While Dec and Ali are known for keeping their children out of the spotlight, the nursery reveal offered a rare peek into their world. Shared through a carefully curated social media post, the images of the nursery sparked an outpouring of admiration, with fans praising its beauty and creativity. The space, designed to be both functional and fantastical, reflects the couple’s commitment to creating a nurturing environment for their youngest daughter.
A Nursery Straight Out of a Storybook
Walking into this nursery must feel like stepping into the pages of a children’s book. The design is a perfect blend of elegance and whimsy, with soft pastel hues, delicate textures, and thoughtful details that create a serene yet enchanting atmosphere. The walls are adorned with removable wallpaper featuring delicate florals and woodland creatures, a nod to the nature-inspired trends that have taken the parenting world by storm in 2025. These motifs, rendered in earthy tones of sage green, blush pink, and creamy ivory, evoke a sense of calm while sparking the imagination.
At the heart of the room is a beautifully crafted crib, its sleek wooden frame accented with gauzy, cloud-like drapes that add a touch of ethereal charm. Above the crib hangs a mobile of hand-painted stars and moons, gently swaying to lull little Isla into sweet dreams. The room’s centerpiece, however, is a cozy reading nook tucked into a corner, complete with a plush armchair, a stack of classic children’s books, and a soft, oversized cushion shaped like a friendly fox. It’s a space that invites bonding moments between parents and child, where stories of adventure and magic can come to life.
The nursery isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s designed with practicality in mind. A sleek changing station, stocked with eco-friendly diapers and gentle skincare products, ensures that functionality meets style. Built-in shelves display a curated selection of toys, from wooden blocks to cuddly stuffed animals, all chosen to encourage sensory play and early learning. The room is bathed in natural light, thanks to large windows dressed in sheer curtains that filter the sunlight into a soft, golden glow. Every detail, from the hypoallergenic rug to the non-toxic paint, reflects a commitment to creating a safe and healthy environment for the newest member of the Donnelly family.
Fans Fall in Love with the Fairytale Vibes
The moment Dec shared the nursery with the world, social media erupted with excitement. Fans flooded the comments with heart-eyes emojis and glowing praise, calling the space “absolutely dreamy” and “a perfect fairytale haven.” Many were quick to point out the nursery’s timeless appeal, with one fan writing, “It’s like something out of a storybook, but so modern and cozy!” Others admired Dec and Ali’s attention to detail, from the hand-stitched bedding to the personalized touches, like a tiny framed initial “I” hanging above the crib.
The nursery’s nature-inspired theme struck a chord with parents, who saw it as a reflection of 2025’s biggest nursery trends. This year, expecting parents are leaning heavily into designs that bring the outdoors in, with elements like forest murals, animal motifs, and sustainable materials dominating the scene. Dec and Ali’s nursery embodies this trend perfectly, but with a unique twist that feels deeply personal. Fans speculated that the woodland theme might be a nod to the couple’s love for the countryside, where they often retreat for family time away from the bustle of London.
The reveal also sparked conversations about Dec’s evolution as a father. Fans who have followed his career since his Byker Grove days marveled at how the cheeky Geordie lad has grown into a devoted dad of three. “Seeing Dec create such a beautiful space for his daughter just melts my heart,” one follower commented. “He’s always been a national treasure, but this takes it to a whole new level!” The nursery, in many ways, has become a symbol of Dec’s priorities: family, love, and creating lasting memories for his children.
The Thought Behind the Design
While Dec hasn’t shared the full story behind the nursery’s creation, it’s clear that the design was a labor of love. Sources close to the couple suggest that Ali, known for her impeccable taste, played a significant role in curating the space, working closely with a team of designers to bring their vision to life. The couple reportedly prioritized sustainability, opting for furniture made from reclaimed wood and textiles free of harmful chemicals. This eco-conscious approach aligns with growing awareness among parents about the importance of creating healthy, planet-friendly spaces for their children.
The nursery also reflects Dec and Ali’s desire to foster creativity and wonder in their daughter’s early years. The inclusion of a reading nook, for example, suggests a focus on storytelling and imagination, values that Dec has spoken about in past interviews. As a presenter who has spent years entertaining audiences, Dec understands the power of a good story, and it seems he’s eager to pass that love on to his children. The nursery’s whimsical touches, like the star-shaped nightlight and the mural of dancing fireflies, are designed to spark curiosity and make every day feel a little more magical.
A Reflection of Dec’s Family Values
Beyond its stunning design, the nursery reveal offers a glimpse into the values that guide Dec and Ali as parents. The space is more than just a room—it’s a sanctuary where their daughter can grow, dream, and feel loved. The care and thought put into every detail speak to the couple’s dedication to providing their children with a warm, nurturing environment. For Dec, who has often spoken about the importance of family, this nursery is a physical manifestation of his commitment to being a hands-on dad.
The reveal also comes at a time when Dec’s career is as busy as ever. With Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway continuing to draw millions of viewers and new projects on the horizon, Dec’s ability to balance his professional and personal life is nothing short of inspiring. Fans have praised him for staying grounded despite his fame, and the nursery reveal only reinforces that image. It’s a reminder that, for all his success, Dec’s greatest joy comes from moments spent with his wife and children.
Why the World Can’t Stop Talking About It
Declan Donnelly’s nursery reveal has captured the hearts of fans for all the right reasons. It’s a celebration of parenthood, creativity, and the simple joys of creating a space for a child to thrive. The nursery’s fairytale-like charm, combined with its modern, sustainable design, makes it a standout in a world of cookie-cutter baby rooms. But more than that, it’s a reflection of Dec’s journey as a father—a journey that resonates with anyone who believes in the magic of family.
As fans continue to gush over the dreamy details, one thing is clear: this nursery is more than just a room. It’s a love letter to Isla, a promise of adventures to come, and a testament to the beauty of creating a home filled with warmth and wonder. For Dec and Ali, it’s a space where their daughter can write her own story, one fairytale moment at a time.
