16 bedside table ideas that are simple and stunning

Written by

05 July 2023

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8 min read

The bedside table is a fantastic item of furniture for the bedroom, delivering so much despite its modest form. However, what most people don't realise is there is potential to do even more with this furnishing which can completely transform a space in practical and stylish ways.

If you're thinking about buying a new bedside table, it pays to do a bit of research first. While you'll have no trouble finding a wide range of options to choose from, knowing how to use them best is another matter altogether. These bedside table ideas demonstrate how vast and diverse the design opportunities are and what can be achieved with a few simple touches.

1. Consider a super multi-functional choice

Bedside tables are naturally multi-faceted and can be used for display and storage. However, there are options that take functionality to the next level in many different ways with all kinds of additional features. These can be related to technological additions like USB ports or speakers. They can be functional traits like extra storage space. You can even find options that incorporate other furnishings in the design like a bedside mirror or a light making them incredibly useful pieces to have.

Multi-functional options are incredibly handy, like this Tomo Side Table by Toou which can act as a bedside table, side table and a stool.

2. Save space with a wall-mounted bedside table

If you have a small bedroom then you might be worried about not having enough space for a bedside table. In this situation, a wall-mounted bedside table might be the perfect solution which many have already turned to right throughout the country. Nicely floating alongside your bed, they free up valuable floor space and create a visual sense of spaciousness too.

The space-saving and stylish FOLD bedside table that gracefully floats at your bedside.

3. Look to vintage pieces for classical styling

For an addition that will add an air of elegance and sophistication, you'll find it hard to beat a vintage-styled piece. Their refined aesthetic and classical charm conveys a sense of luxuriousness that can elevate the look of a bedroom effortlessly. Their design also has a quality of timelessness meaning they'll never go out of style making them a great long-term choice.

Options like the Laura Nightstand show how luxurious and timeless classical styling can be.

4. Introduce a dynamic pop colour to your bedroom

A go-to technique for an interior designer is to introduce a pop colour into a space which is exactly something you can do with the right bedside table. You'll find plenty of options of just about every colour conceivable so the trick is more about deciding what colour will work best. One popular is to use a complementary contrasting colour which can add visual interest, depth and dimension as well as a balanced aesthetic.

The USM Haller Bedside Table is available in 14 different colours and can really pack a bit of pop into a space when used well.

5. Beautify your bedside table with a floral arrangement

Flowers are a lovely addition on top of a bedside table adding colour, freshness and a sense of vitality. There are countless options to choose from allowing you to personalise your look however you like. You can also change them in accordance with the seasons achieving different looks as the year goes on. The vase you choose also presents another opportunity to stylise in a complementary or contrasting way.

Fresh flowers can bring a sense of freshness and vitality to a space, nicely arranged here on some exquisite custom made bedside tables by DBJ.

6. Showcase a statement table lamp

Bedside table lamps are made for bedside tables, to state the obvious, and you should absolutely embrace that idea as a partnership for styling. For most, the bedside table will be the platform for a more showy table lamp to shine. It's an arrangement that works well as there are plenty of designer-inspired and sometimes quite expressive table lamps to choose from that pair well with any number of traditionally designed bedside tables.

Related article: 16 of the best table lamps in New Zealand

A bedside table provides a great opportunity for an exquisite table lamp to shine, seen here with the Indie Table Lamp.

7. Find warmth and comfort in Oak

Of all the wooden bedside tables there are to choose from, Oak stands apart as an excellent option to go for. An Oak bedside table is incredibly sturdy and reliable, easily able to accommodate heavier items you might want to feature like table lamps, a vase of flowers, a large alarm clock etc. They also each have their unique natural grain, making them one-of-a-kind acquisitions.

The beautiful natural grain of oak, seen here with the Berlin Natural Solid Oak Bedside Table, brings uniqueness and warmth to a bedroom.

8. Pick something fun for the kids

Bedside tables are often needed for various settings, including kids' rooms. While choosing a traditional bedside table for them is perfectly fine, you could also take the playful approach and pick something designed specifically for their spaces. They also tend to be more appropriately sized for a kid's room which also typically has a children’s bed and other smaller furnishings, making it a practical choice as well.

Kid's bedside tables can be playful and fun like the Urban Kidz Animal Oak Bedside Table.

9. Take advantage of the versatility of curves

While most bedside tables you'll find are square or rectangular, you can also consider a rounded bedside table, a choice that is more versatile than you might think. A round bedside table is one that is space-efficient, immediately making it great for a small room like a guest room. They are also a safe choice with no sharp edges to worry about. Visually they offer a point of difference compared to the norm and, for those that are interested in such things, they are also good for Feng Shui.

The Rim Bedside Table by Alf Da Fre features contemporary styling and ample storage giving homeowners the best of both worlds.

10. Add a bit of height with a tall bedside table

Having just discussed the shape, you can also look at size in a different way by opting for a tall bedside table. The first advantage of this is fairly obvious as the extra height allows them to offer ample storage space. They can also have more visual impact in a space adding to the sense of verticality in the room. Anything featured on the surface space will also be more prominent, making it a great platform for special ornamentals and personal items of decor.

For a bit of extra storage and prominence, the Manchester Natural Solid Oak Tall Bedside Table makes a great choice.

11. Choose a unique bedside table with a patterned design

Unique furnishings are always a great way to make bedroom design feel more personal and intimate. When choosing bedside tables, a great way to do this is to find one that features a patterned design. They tend to be quite rare and hard to find but that only makes them all the more special. Introducing a pattern in this way will draw the eye, adding a bit of drama and dynamism to the space. It can be a great mood setter too, allowing you to create a bit of atmosphere in an unorthodox way.

The subtle chevron-patterned Koto veneers of the Nomadic Nightstand gives it a unique point of difference and elevated sophistication.

12. Repurpose a storage side table

Bedside table ideas don't always need to involve bedside tables at all. Side tables, for example, can be repurposed to be the bedside table in a bedroom. Side tables often feature more decorative designs as furnishings made for shared spaces so are a good choice for those looking for something more ornate. Storage side tables are a particularly good choice as their storage capacities can be quite generous and extremely useful.

The versatile Broste Ninna Storage Side Table makes for a perfectly functional and stylish bedside table.

13. Reflect on your styling with a mirrored finish

There are many advantages to incorporating mirrors in a bedroom like creating the illusion of space and enhancing natural light. Instead of having a separate fixture for this, you could instead opt for a mirrored finish on your bedside table. This creates quite a striking feature, which works even better as matching nightstands on either side of the bed.

The bronze mirrored drawer of the La Moda Drawer Nightstand is absolutely captivating and adds to the feeling of spaciousness in any room.

14. Try a tray table for rustic charm

For those who live in country homes or any other relaxed style of interior design, you might be interested in a tray table as your bedside option of choice. Typically made from wood, they are a simple, uncomplicated interpretation of a bedside table that keeps a space uncluttered and airy. They are an unobtrusive presence in the bedroom, imparting a quiet rustic charm and ambience.

The rustic charm of the Cross Leg Tray Table makes it perfect for a relaxed setting.

15. Create accents with handle finishes

An easy and effective way to create depth in a room is by incorporating small but undeniable accents. Bedside table hardware like handles, pulls and knobs present a great opportunity to do exactly that. You'll find no shortage of options to choose from like brass, copper, brushed gold — even stainless steel can have an impact in the right settings.

The bronze metal accents of the Mont Noir Bedside Table provides some striking highlights for the space.

16. Present a piece of art

Last but not least, you can use your bedside table as a gallery floor upon which you can present a piece of art. Art can represent so much of who we are with respect to our beliefs, passions, interests and more. It can also create an ambience in a room which is important even in private spaces in the home. Having a meaningful presence in your room can affect the way you start and finish each day as well as add an element of styling that is unique to you.

A sculpture can add real gravitas to a bedroom, perfectly placed on the ADJ Bedside by Alf Da Fre in this finely curated interior.

Some simple bedside table ideas that will make a big difference to your bedroom

As you can see, the bedside table ideas discussed are relatively easy to adopt and can have a significant impact on your space. Whether it's going for a vintage option for a bit of classical styling or a pop colour as a fun touch, you'll be able to find something that works for you and makes your space that extra bit special.