All your daily essentials find their home on your bedside table. From the moment you wake up, it’s the first piece of furniture you interact with, whether it’s to turn off your alarm, grab a glass of water, or check your phone. With this essential function, choosing the right bedside table is crucial for creating a space that combines style and practicality. A well-chosen and styled bedside table not only enhances your bedroom’s aesthetics but also improves its functionality.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to select the right bedside table and style it perfectly, balancing form and function.
1. Choosing the Right Bedside Table: Size Matters
When buying a bedside table, size is one of the most important factors. The table should suit the size of your room and the bed itself. A small bedroom will benefit from a smaller, sleeker table made from lighter materials like timber, giving the space a contemporary look without overwhelming it.
For larger bedrooms, you can experiment with more substantial bedside tables, such as dark wooden pieces or those with ornate designs that can help anchor the room’s aesthetic. Keep in mind that a bedside table should sit approximately level with your mattress for ease of use.
Another crucial consideration is the height of the table. A bedside table that is too high or too low can make it uncomfortable to reach for items while you’re in bed. Ideally, the table should be in line with the top of your mattress or just slightly below it. This ensures that you can easily access whatever you need without straining to reach.
Pro Tip: Before purchasing, measure the space beside your bed and decide on the ideal dimensions for your bedside table. This will ensure that it fits comfortably without making the room feel crowded.
2. Match the Colour Scheme
Colour plays a significant role in creating the right mood in your bedroom. When choosing the right bedside table, it’s essential to select one that complements the room’s overall colour scheme. If your room has a light and airy design, choose a bedside table in soft, neutral tones like white, beige, or pastel shades to maintain a consistent theme.
On the other hand, if your room leans towards darker tones, such as deep blues or greys, a dark wood or painted bedside table can provide a sophisticated contrast. Just make sure not to overpower the space with too many dark, heavy elements.
It’s also important to consider the materials and finishes on the bedside table. For example, a natural wood bedside table with a light finish can evoke a calming and organic feel in the bedroom, perfect for minimalist or Scandinavian-inspired interiors. On the other hand, a polished wood or lacquer finish can bring an element of glamour to the space, adding a luxurious touch.
Pro Tip: For a cohesive look, try matching the bedside table with other furniture pieces or accents in the room, such as a chest of drawers or a wardrobe. You can also coordinate accessories like lamps or vases to bring the whole room together.
3. Prioritise Practicality When Choosing the Right Bedside Table
A bedside table is primarily functional, so practicality should be at the forefront of your decision-making process. Consider what you regularly keep on your bedside table—lamps, phones, books, or glasses of water. The table should have enough surface space for these items while keeping the area uncluttered.
If you like to keep a lot of personal items within arm’s reach, look for a table with additional storage, such as drawers or shelves. These will help you keep the essentials neatly organised and out of sight. Drawers, in particular, are perfect for storing items like remote controls, books, or small electronics. If you prefer a minimalist look, opt for a table with a closed storage solution to maintain a sleek appearance.
It’s also helpful to think about how you use your bedside table at night. Do you often reach for a glass of water? Do you need space for a reading lamp? These practical considerations will influence the table’s size, design, and storage options.
Pro Tip: Use stylish organisers or catch-all dishes to manage small items like jewellery or charging cables. This keeps everything tidy while adding a decorative touch.
4. Add a Touch of Art
Your bedside table isn’t just a functional piece; it’s also an opportunity to showcase your personal style. When choosing the right bedside table, consider how it can serve as a platform for expressing your aesthetic through art and décor. Adding art, whether it’s a framed photo or a small sculpture, can elevate the overall design of your bedroom. These personal touches make the space feel more inviting and reflective of your tastes.
Art doesn’t have to be confined to the walls; incorporating small decorative items on your bedside table can make a statement. Framed photos, for example, allow you to display cherished memories, while small sculptures or decorative trays can add an artistic element to the space.
Choose artwork that complements the room’s aesthetic and fits within the space available on your bedside table. Compact, tasteful pieces will add character without cluttering the surface.
Pro Tip: Choose picture frames or decorative items that match your existing décor. Avoid overwhelming the table by limiting yourself to one or two art pieces.
5. Keep Things Balanced
When it comes to styling, balance is key. A cluttered or mismatched bedside table can detract from the overall look of your bedroom. If you’re displaying a tall lamp, balance it with shorter, smaller decorative items. Similarly, if you have a lot of small pieces on the table, neutralise the look with simpler, more understated elements.
Symmetry can also play a role in balancing your bedside table. For example, if you have two bedside tables flanking your bed, consider styling them with matching lamps or accessories to create a sense of cohesion. Alternatively, if you prefer a more eclectic look, you can vary the height and design of the accessories, as long as there’s a unifying theme or colour palette.
The goal is to create a harmonious arrangement that is visually appealing and functional. Step back from the table and evaluate whether each piece adds value to the setup or if it’s just adding clutter.
Pro Tip: Less is more when it comes to bedside table styling. If it feels overwhelming, try removing one or two pieces to simplify the look.
6. Styling Tips for Different Materials When Choosing a Bedside Table
Different materials lend themselves to different styles and uses, so consider the material of your bedside table when styling it.
- Wooden Tables: These are the most versatile. They work well in a variety of styles, from rustic to modern. Pair them with natural elements like small plants or linen lampshades for a cohesive look.
- Glass or Metal Tables: These materials lend themselves to more contemporary or minimalist designs. Pair them with sleek, simple décor items like geometric lamps or metallic trays.
- Marble Tables: A bedside table with a marble top can introduce an element of luxury to the bedroom. Keep the styling elegant and minimal with high-quality, refined accessories.
When selecting the material, consider how it fits with the overall design of your room and whether it complements other furniture. Each material brings its own character to the space, and the right choice can enhance the bedroom’s aesthetic.
7. Don’t Forget Lighting
The right lighting can transform your bedside table. A stylish lamp not only provides functional lighting but also acts as a design element. Choose a lamp that fits proportionally on the table and enhances the room’s ambiance.
If you prefer more minimal setups, consider wall-mounted lights to free up table space. This not only allows for a cleaner look but also keeps the table clear for other essentials. Sconces or pendant lights can be great alternatives, adding both function and style without taking up surface space.
Lighting temperature is another important consideration. Warm lighting is ideal for creating a cosy, inviting atmosphere, while cooler lighting is better for tasks like reading.
Pro Tip: Choose warm lighting to create a relaxing bedroom environment, perfect for winding down before bed.
8. Incorporating Plants and Greenery
Adding greenery to your bedside table is a great way to introduce a sense of nature and tranquillity to your bedroom. Small potted plants, like succulents or ferns, can breathe life into your space without requiring much maintenance.
Plants can soften the look of a bedside table and add a pop of colour, especially in rooms that feature more neutral tones. When selecting plants, choose varieties that thrive indoors and require minimal care, so they remain vibrant and healthy without needing constant attention.
Pro Tip: Make sure the plant pot complements the rest of the décor. Neutral-toned pots, such as white or grey, are versatile and match most bedroom styles.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bedside table is about balancing form and function. It should serve your practical needs while enhancing the overall design of your bedroom. By carefully considering size, material, colour, and practicality, and adding a few personal touches, you can create a bedside setup that is both functional and stylish.
Remember, it’s not just about what looks good—it’s about what makes your bedroom a comfortable, personalised space where you can relax and unwind.
