When it comes to creating a restful, layered bedroom, your bedside table does more than hold a lamp and your latest read—it shapes how you begin and end each day.
From classic nightstands to creative alternatives, the best bedside setups are as personal as the person sleeping next to them. At Nandina, we believe that real life and real style should coexist in every nook of your home, including the one right next to the bed.
Your Bedside Table Is Not Just a Nightstand
The truth is: your nightstand doesn’t have to be a nightstand.
A vintage desk, a stack of books, a skirted table in your favorite fabric—when designed intentionally, any surface can serve as a bedside table. The key is to choose something that fits your lifestyle and complements your room’s scale and style.
Design tip: Whether you’re styling for two or just for you, the best bedside tables are the ones that feel collected, personal, and a little unexpected.
Bedside Tables 101: The Foundations
Here are a handful of must-know tips our designers keep in mind when styling bedside spaces:
- Relate it to the bed—but don’t match it exactly. Matching bedroom sets can feel too uniform. Instead, aim for harmony through tone, texture, or proportion.
- Get the height right. If you’re mixing tables, keep the tops level (or within a couple inches of each other). This keeps the look cohesive and functional.
- Play with wood tones. Match the stain exactly or contrast it boldly—the “in-between” often feels messy.
- Think in pairs (or not). Matching nightstands = symmetry and polish. Mixed = a more layered, curated feel. Either works—just stay intentional.
- Style it with personality. Books, art, lighting, and personal touches can turn a utilitarian surface into a styled moment.
Alternatives to Traditional Nightstands
Sometimes the best ideas come from reimagining the obvious. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box (or drawer):
- Vintage chest: Adds storage and charm.
- Console table: Especially good in narrow rooms.
- Skirted round table: Adds softness and hides clutter.
- Desk or vanity: Dual-purpose pieces maximize space.
- Floating shelf: Sleek and great for tight spaces.
*Note: Images are credited to Pinterest
At Nandina Home & Design, we often mix and match approaches depending on the room’s needs and the homeowner’s lifestyle.
Styling Elements That Make a Difference
Once the table is in place, it’s time to layer in those finishing touches:
- Texture
Layering a mix of textures—like a linen lamp shade, ceramic vase, or metal tray—adds richness, especially in neutral palettes. - Lighting
Lighting sets the tone and creates a vibe. A sculptural table lamp brings height and ambiance, while wall sconces free up surface space in smaller rooms. - Art
A small framed piece, leaning or hung, adds personality without overwhelming. It also helps balance out visual weight. - Books + Objects
A stack of books or a small tray adds polish and function. Consider a candle, a catch-all for jewelry, or a favorite framed photo. - Greenery
Fresh flowers or a small plant bring life and softness to the scene. For darker corners, faux florals can do the trick—just make sure the quality is high.
*Note: Images are credited to Pinterest
Styling for Real Life
Designing a beautiful bedside doesn’t mean sacrificing function. Think through your personal routines—where will your book go? Do you need a drawer for tech or medicine? Are you styling a guest room, or designing for your everyday?
When styling a primary bedroom, you might want:
- Charging access
- A place for skincare, glasses, or any nighttime rituals
- Personal decor that feels restful and calming
In guest spaces, keep it simple but thoughtful:
- Carafe of water
- A light, book, or small notepad
- A drawer with charging cords or a welcome note
Need Help Choosing the Right Nightstand?
Whether you’re starting from scratch or refreshing your space, our design team can help you make the most of your bedroom layout—nightstands and all. We bring a balanced eye to every surface, ensuring it serves both form and function.
–> Schedule a consultation with Nandina’s designers to bring your vision to life.
Mistakes to Avoid
Even small surfaces can go wrong with a few common pitfalls:
- Choosing the wrong scale: Too big or too small throws off the balance.
- Over-accessorizing: Too many objects create visual clutter.
- Ignoring real-life function: Consider what you actually reach for at night.
- Forgetting lighting height: Your lamp should work for reading, not just aesthetics.
Need Help Styling Your Bedroom?
Whether you’re rethinking your entire bedroom or simply upgrading your nightstands, our designers are here to help. At Nandina, we believe your home should be as beautiful as it is livable—and every detail should reflect your life, your rhythm, and your style.
Ready to transform your bedroom from functional to beautiful? Contact us or stop by one of our showrooms in Greenville, Aiken, or Atlanta—we’d love to help you bring it to life.
