victoria rouse

As a designer and a mom who grew up in the 90s, I’ve been feeling a massive pull toward the 'analog warmth' of my own childhood bedroom. You know the vibe: the primary color blocks, the Winnie the Pooh-esque honey tones, and the wicker baskets that held all our treasures. For this list, I’ve curated items that bridge the gap between 90s/2000s nostalgia and modern quality. We’re talking corduroy seating, classic wooden blocks, and that specific shade of '90s Blue' that feels both retro and fresh. This isn't just a nursery; it’s a time capsule for the next generation, built with pieces that actually last.

I love creating spaces for girls that feel whimsical and feminine without being overly 'sugary.' This list is a curated blend of floral prints, antique-inspired silhouettes, and soft textures that will transition beautifully as she grows.

Puebla isn't just a place for hidden corners—it's home to some of the most iconic, world-record-holding landmarks in Mexico. While I love my secret coffee shops, you simply can't leave without doing the 'touristy' stuff. This is my curated guide to the big-ticket items—the safaris, the giant wheels, and the churches dripping in gold—that actually live up to the hype. Here is my first-person guide to the essentials every visitor needs to tick off their list.

As an expat and designer living in this incredible city, I’ve spent years peeling back the layers of Puebla. Most people come for the mole and the cathedral, but the real magic is found in the textured walls of 16th-century haciendas, the quiet artist studios, and the 'Magic Towns' hidden in the fog of the Sierra Norte. This list is my personal collection of the iconic must-sees and the boutique secrets that define the modern heritage of Puebla. Whether you’re hunting for authentic Talavera or looking for a rooftop with a volcano view, these are the spots that make me never want to leave.

This collection is a tribute to the diverse voices and vibrant cultures of the Hispanic and Latine world. From the magical realism of the Andes to the neon-lit streets of modern-day Mexico City, these books celebrate the complex beauty of heritage. Whether you’re looking for a Montessori-aligned picture book to share with your little ones or a gripping gothic novel that stays with you long after the final page, this list is a curated guide to the stories that define us, challenge us, and bring us home.

Focus on the "heirloom" quality—items made of wood, linen, and silicone that look beautiful in a basket on the floor.

As a designer, I believe a playroom shouldn't feel like a sensory overload. I’ve curated this list to help you create a minimalist, Montessori-inspired space using natural woods and soft textures. These pieces encourage independent play without clashing with your home's decor. From wipeable play mats to sleek wooden toy kitchens, these are my top picks for a high-style, low-clutter childhood.

Raising bilingual kids while living between Puerto Rico and Mexico has taught me that quality resources are everything. This list features my favorite Spanish and bilingual board books, musical toys, and learning tools that actually keep my kids engaged. Whether you're a native speaker or just starting your child’s language journey, these are the designer-approved essentials we use in our home every day.

Planning a nursery can be overwhelming, so I’ve done the editing for you. This collection focuses on GREENGUARD Gold certified furniture, organic textiles, and timeless decor with clean lines. My goal was to select pieces that feel serene and sophisticated, ensuring the room stays functional long after the newborn stage. Skip the plastic and shop my curated favorites for a truly modern nursery.

As a designer, I’m always looking for that perfect balance between developmental function and home aesthetics. When my little ones started cruising, I didn't want a house full of loud, plastic gadgets that did the work for them. Instead, I curated this list of walkers and gear that follow the Montessori principle of 'freedom within limits.' Every item here is chosen for its stability, natural materials, and ability to let a child lead the way. These are the pieces that supported my kids’ first steps while keeping my living room feeling like a sanctuary.

a sophisticated blend of raw, organic textures like volcanic stone and reclaimed wood, paired with the vibrant soul of hand-painted Talavera and Otomi textiles. Whether you are looking for that perfect 'garrafón' stand that actually looks like furniture or a statement piece of Oaxacan black clay, these are the high-quality, designer-vetted essentials that transform a house into a curated Mexican sanctuary.

pieces that prioritize skin-safe fabrics (like bamboo and organic cotton) and silhouettes that allow for total freedom of movement. Whether you’re looking for a timeless linen button-down for a family photo in Mexico or durable, eco-friendly basics for everyday discovery, these are the pieces I trust for my own children. This is fashion that looks like a dream, feels like a cloud, and is built to be passed down for generations.

When I moved to a city with 300-year-old streets, I quickly learned that most 'city' strollers are actually only built for smooth mall floors. I’ve spent years testing which frames can absorb the literal 'head-rattle' of cobblestones while still fitting through a narrow café door. This is my first-person edit of the heavy hitters—the strollers with the pneumatic tires, advanced coil suspension, and rugged builds that I actually trust to keep a nap going when the pavement gets rough. If it’s on this list, it’s because it has survived the vibration test.