Bedside table styling ideas guide for practicality & style

If your bedside table accumulates clutter and feels disorganised with glasses, keys and loose change strewn around - it's time for a change. You see, side tables help frame your bed, creating a balanced and cohesive look and feel in your bedroom. What's more, they can multitask effortlessly. Offering practical storage and a place to display your knick-knacks and memorabilia, side tables are one of your bedroom's most versatile furniture pieces. And now, you can lend your spaces a more comforting and welcoming vibe with these 11 bedside table styling ideas.

Quick Links

• Commonly asked questions
• How to get started with bedside table styling ideas?
• 11 Bedside table styling tips
• 8 Bedside table decor must-haves
• The most popular bedside table styles

Commonly Asked Questions

What is the difference between a nightstand and a bedside table?

The words nightstand and bedside tables are often used interchangeably. Traditionally nightstands would have at least one drawer, while bedside tables didn't have any. Today, bedside tables come equipped with drawers and shelves, offering aesthetic yet functional storage solutions in your bedroom.

Do I need two bedside tables?

Two bedside tables make great design sense if you want to create a balanced and symmetric effect. But there are no hard and fast rules around this, and it depends on the look you're going for. So, for instance, if you'd like to create a focal point, using a single bedside table can help you achieve just this.

How do you mix and match furniture in a bedroom?

Mix and match your furniture to create home decor styles that reflect your personality and preferences. Repeat materials, colours and textures for consistency and cohesion. For example, if your bedhead is a shade of deep mahogany, you could repeat this tone and texture in your choice of tall boy or bedside tables.

How to get started with bedside table styling ideas?

Before you decide what to put on a bedside table, we recommend following these steps:

Step 1: Clean & Declutter

Declutter first. Why? A clean table provides a fitting backdrop for all your bedside table styling inspiration. If the tables look tired and faded, it might be a good idea to consider an upcycling project or a quick DIY paint update. Perhaps you might also consider investing in new bedside table/s.

Step 2: Have a plan ready

Bedside table styling starts with a well-laid plan. The plan will entail elements like a colour scheme (monochromatic, natural, complementing) and decor themes. Create a mood board, which will serve as an excellent way to segue into execution.

11 Bedside table styling tips

If you want to style your bedside tables like a pro, read on! We've put together 11 bedside table styling tips and advice to help you give your room a brand new facelift.

#1 What's your theme?

Let your room's theme dictate your bedside tables' styling inspiration. The accents and accessories you choose should reflect the bedroom's overarching style. For instance, if your home reflects the Hampton's aesthetic, with whites and blues, accents in bright red could have a jarring effect.

#2 Contrast and complement with colours

Pick the right hues for a successful arrangement. We love combining complementing and contrasting colour schemes to highlight the designs of your bedside accents. For instance, if your cabinet colours are a shade of white, you could reference these shades in your accents using similar colourways. Now pop in a few contrasting tones to create a layered display. Also, consider a few pops of bold colours or metallic tones for highlighting. Take your styling up a notch by selecting bed linen in the same colourways. If you need help with styling, our ultimate linen styling guide offers practical advice.

#3 Vary the heights of your accessories

Use varying heights in accent pieces for some added oomph to your bedside table decor. Tall objects lend drama, while smaller accents instil that sense of calm. For instance, choose a tall vase or lamp, mid-sized candles or plant with low bowls and trays for a harmonious well-put-together look.

#4 Think in threes

Group your bedside table decor pieces in groups of three. Why? If you're seeking to create a balanced look, this decor philosophy is a good one to follow. For example, this could be a table lamp and plant in combination with a photo frame. Alternatively, you could try two books stacked one above the other with a small accent piece like a bowl on top for added visual effect.

#5
Don't be afraid to mix and mismatch

Don't be compelled to style your bedsides to be mirror images of each other. Sometimes it's okay for things not to match. If you have two different types of bedside tables anchoring your bed, why not celebrate their uniqueness? Plan a theme that ties the accessories together. But don't break into a sweat trying to match the left and right-hand sides.

#6 Keep it functional

Ultimately your side table offers a home for your personal belongings, so functionality is vital. Corral your everyday objects in one bowl to keep your table neat. Ideally, invest in pieces that can multitask, helping you create a pretty yet functional bedside table vignette.

#7 Less is ALWAYS more

When it comes to bedside table decorating ideas, remember less is more. Don't over style your bedside - simply sticking to a few but powerful statement pieces can offer more appeal than many ordinary accents. Don't be afraid to embrace a minimalist bedside table style with carefully chosen and timeless accessories that complement your decor scheme. For example, neutral hues are ideal for minimal styling. Plain glassware, for example, is an elegant choice to make.

#8 Let there be light

The ubiquitous lamp is a fantastic styling accessory to link your bedside tables. Make sure to pick the correct size so it doesn't appear to overwhelm the space or look insignificant. And don't be afraid to pick a lamp with some decorative flair. Suppose your bedside table is too compact to accommodate a lamp. In that case, suspended pendant lights or wall sconces could offer a fitting solution too. Enjoy the moody ambience.

#9 Choose nature-inspired accents

We recommend styling your bedside table with a few natural elements for a sleep space that exudes a zen-like vibe. These could look like fresh flowers in a vase or potted plants. Too busy and don't have enough time to tend to your plants? Choose succulents that need no looking after but also offer a dash of greenery to your private oasis. Complement your plant with a candle or diffuser to introduce aroma and elegance.

#10 Allow art around the table

Frame a piece of art on the wall atop your nightstand, or frame a printed photo you love. Artwork can contribute to stunning bedside table styles lending a pop of colour and personality, reviving even the smallest of corners. Pick an image that uplifts you when you go to bed at night and wake up in the morning.

#11 Think textures

Style your bedside table with a mix of textures for instant visual appeal. For instance, a glossy table lamp coupled with a textured storage box and vase could make for an instant pick-me-up or conversation starter.

8 Bedside table decor must-haves

If you're out of ideas on the types of accent pieces and accessories for your bedside table decor, we've pulled together a list for you to consider.

• Stacked books
• Vase
• Bowls for trinkets
• Candles
• Plants
• Artwork
• Diffuser
• Essential oils

The most popular bedside table styles

When it comes to bedside table ideas, aim to achieve balance in height, colour, texture and shape. Look at what's on the bedside currently and rearrange where needed. This is a handy trick for when you want to change up for the season and create a different look. A simple hack could be swapping the decor from one table to another. You could also replace the plants, flowers, the books and instantly create a fresh new corner.

Remember to be intentional with your design choices, as this will help you relax better. For instance, indoor plants could contribute to cleaning the indoor air. Or a tray could help organise your everyday objects in one place.

Find unique bedroom storage solutions to help organise and style your spaces better. If you're looking for advice on decorating and styling your bedroom, our Home Hub can help.