How To Style A Nightstand Like A Professional Interior Decorator

Nightstands are essential items of furniture when it comes to bedroom decor. They not only fulfill an aesthetic purpose but are hugely functional as well. Indeed, most of us use our nightstands to keep essential items within easy reach at night. Examples of these types of items include our phones, glasses, alarm clock, and water.

However, it is because of this dual purpose of function and form that styling a nightstand can be tricky. In fact, many people struggle to achieve the look of the stylish bedside tables we see in magazines and online. That is why our decor experts have come up with this detailed but easy-to-use guide, all about how to style your nightstand effectively. Just keep reading to find out more.

Nightstand Decor Ideas

Combining function with aesthetics is the key to a successful nightstand. Using a specific theme that fits in with your current decor can help you achieve a cohesive look, while still providing all the items you need close at hand. Why not try one of our expertly devised themed nightstand decor ideas below?

Edgy industrial chic

Sometimes, what you really need to bring a design project together is a theme that you can style it around. One of the most fashionable and effective themes right now is industrial chic. This style is all about using more rugged and functional materials in the home. To use this style specifically in your nightstand, first consider the elements you may wish to display. For example, a simple plant can be easily transformed into an industrial vibe piece by placing it in a metal pot. Extra points for a pot with a solid bold color choice, and paint that has, in part, flaked off.

When it comes to lamps, architect lamps are a great choice, particularly because of their mechanical-looking swing arms. Again, be sure to choose one of the materials that you might find in an old factory, such as metal.

Last of all, the pièce de résistance of an industrial choice nightstand has to be a vintage clock. Look for an alarm clock with an old-style dial and numbers, and a real bell on top. Again, if you can find one that's still working, but a little worse for wear, this will only add to the charm.

Scandinavian Hygge

Calm and cozy, the Scandinavian Hygge is the perfect theme for a bedside table. Choose nightstands in natural materials such as wood, in lighter colors like oak and ash. Rounded, shaped, including nightstands with midcentury wooden pin legs, are also a great choice, especially when paired with a lamp that offers low-level lighting for a truly cozy atmosphere.

Calm and spiritual

If you are looking to create a zen-like vibe in your bedroom, then your nightstand should be both calm and spiritual. To achieve this, opt for a largely monotone color scheme in a neutral light tone. Add contemplative aspects such as stacked zen stones, or a single bloom or branch. Complete the vibe with an aromatherapy light that provides both a warm glow and a relaxing scent that will aid with meditation and rest.

Rustic vibes

Still using natural materials, a rustic-themed nightstand differs from a Scandinavian one in a major way. However, farmhouse-style nightstands are more shabby and less polished, providing a more homey feel. This provides a more homey feel.

When choosing a nightstand for this look, go for wooden options that are distressed or weathered. Decorate with relaxed pieces such as jam jars of fake flowers that will look good all year round. Then finish the look with an old book, or two bound in leather with gold embossing.

Contemporary

A new, clean, and urban style nightstand with contemporary vibes is a very popular choice. Look for nightstands that combine metal frames or legs with sleek drawers made from wood or glass.

To decorate on theme, a contemporary nightstand should be almost, but not quite, minimalist in tone. That means keep the items displayed on top sparse and carefully chosen. A sculptural lamp, a simply framed abstract piece, and a single book are best.

Nightstand decor comparison:

Bedside Table Styling Tips

Did you know that some rules can help you style the perfect nightstand every single time? The good news is that you can find our expert bedside table styling tips in a simple do and don't form below.

Don't stack your books any which way

Books are a common feature of any bedside table, but they need to be considered and displayed thoughtfully. This means opt for publications that add height and rhythm. Alternatively, use your carefully chosen tomes as a foundation for another object, such as a clock or vase.

Do choose a statement lamp

Your bedside table lighting choice is also a crucial one. Opt for a lamp that adds structure and acts as a focal point. Be mindful of materials as you pick your lamp too, as contrast, such as using a metal lamp on a wooden nightstand, can work effectively here.

Don't forget to define the area

The recent trend for trays is perfect for defining your bedside table area. By using a tray, you can keep it neat and ordered while still looking attractive. If space is on the short side, a clear glass or acrylic tray is an ideal option. This is because it allows the line of sight to be unbroken, giving a more roomy feel. Scalloped wooden trays in solid colors are also hugely effective on a nightstand. This is because they can add an interesting pop of color and movement, while still being supremely practical.

Do pick a single decorative item to display

While the focus on a bedside table should always be on functional items, choosing a single decorative item is also a smart idea. In this way, you can add interest and personality to your bedside space, while still allowing for plenty of room for each item to breathe aesthetically.

Don’t always match your nightstands

Two symmetrical nightstands can create a wonderful sense of balance and calm in a room. Yet, perfect symmetry is not always necessary for this effect. Instead, why not keep some things the same, such as vases or lamps? Then add a dash of individuality with your own choice of books, clocks, and frames?

Minimalist Nightstand Decor

If clutter and cleaning stress you out, then the best option for your nightstand can be to go minimalist. Get our expert ideas on things to avoid in minimalist nightstand decor below.

Device chargers

Snaking cords for charging your devices are kryptonite to a minimalist look. Instead, it's best to opt for either a proper charging station that hides the cords or a nightstand with a wireless charger built in. Wireless charging nightstands are a great choice for minimalists. This is because it means you can charge your phone overnight without any clutter. All you need to do is place it in the right spot, and you're done.

Expert tip: Choose a nightstand that has wireless charging built in

Books & magazines

The only book that should grace your nightstand is the one that you are reading that night. Any others are unnecessary clutter that will interrupt the minimalist vibe. You may even like to keep space in your nightstand drawer for your book, allowing the top surface to stay as clutter-free as possible.

Glasses

For those of us who rely on our glasses, the natural place to put them before we go to sleep is the nightstand. Then they are in easy reach for the morning or even during the night. Yet, glasses can easily create a sense of clutter that will ruin a minimalist vibe. That is why it's best to limit yourself to storing a single pair there. Also, use a dish or stand to give your glasses a specific spot and keep them as tidy and as safe as possible. The same goes for jewelry that you take off before bed.

Decorative items

Many people love to display decorative decor on their bedside tables, and there is nothing wrong with this. However, if you are opting for a minimalist vibe, it's best to avoid or limit non-functional items. With that in mind, limiting yourself to a single photo or picture in a simple frame is a good choice here.

Cosmetics

Cleanser, toner, or moisturizer, using cosmetics before bed is a common practice. However, having all these products on display ruins the minimalist vibe. They can also make keeping your nightstand clean a pain as well.

The good news is that there are two minimalist-approved solutions to choose from here. The first is to have a drawer in your nightstand dedicated to cosmetics. Then ensure that each item is only taken out during use and placed right back after. The second is to move your bedtime cosmetic routine to the bathroom, in the process of keeping your nightstand and bedroom a more relaxed haven.

Expert tip: Pick a nightstand with plenty of drawers where you can store your cosmetics.

Small Nightstand Styling

One of the most frequently asked questions our experts get about nightstands is how to style a particularly small version. That is why they have created this guide, written specifically to help those with small nightstand issues and questions.

What is a small nightstand?

A small nightstand is one that is perfectly suited to a more restricted space. This reduced space could be caused by the size of your bed, the size of your room, or even how you choose to arrange your furniture.

A nightstand can be small in two ways. It can have a small total area or be particularly narrow. Both types of nightstands mean a reduced area that you can use, making styling an especially tricky task.

Expert Tip: Choose a narrow nightstand for a perfect fit in a small space.

Get the foundations right

The trick to successful small nightstand styling is to choose the right foundation. This means picking a bedside table that best suits the space you have and your needs. For instance, there are nightstands that are built specifically for smaller spaces. One type of nightstand like this is floating, creating an illusion of space even in a small area, while still providing plenty of drawers to ensure they remain functional.

Expert tip: Choose a floating nightstand for a small area. This will help increase the illusion of space.

What to keep on a small nightstand?

Similar to the minimalist approach, it's a good idea to limit yourself to the absolute minimum when styling a small nightstand. That means the things you absolutely can’t do without must come first, such as an alarm clock, charging stations, and your book for the night. It's best to keep anything else in the drawers in your nightstand to prevent overcrowding.

You can even find narrow bedside tables that include additional features like LED lighting. This means you can remove the need for a lamp, maintaining functionality while gaining even more room.

Expert tip: Nightstands with LED lighting save you space because you won’t need a lamp.

How To Style A Nightstand FAQs

1. How to style a nightstand without a lamp?

If you have a light affixed to the wall or a bedside table that includes LED lighting, you won’t need one on your nightstand. Instead, use items like vases, framed art, or taller books to create height.

2 What to keep in bedside table drawers?

It's best to keep as much as possible in your bedside table drawers. This then leaves plenty of room for the most essential functional items like an alarm clock, phone charger, and lamp on top. It will also keep it clutter-free and create a much more peaceful ambiance.

3 How to style a small nightstand?

Choose a narrow and/or floating option to maximize visual space in the room. Then limit yourself to only the essentials.