August Williams
Decorating your nightstand is an important part of pulling a bedroom together and completing the look. While the nightstand is often purely functional, serving as a place to keep bedtime essentials, it can also be made beautiful. When decorating your nightstand, it is important to balance aesthetics with functionality, leaving empty space for practical use. The nightstand should complement the other elements in the room, such as the bed and the wall art or mirror. Here are some tips to help you decorate your nightstand and make it shine.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of items | 2-7 items |
| Item type | Lamp, vase, water glass, books, bowl, small box, tray, flowers, art, mirror, clock, picture frame, plant, succulent, basket, lidded box, decorative bowl, tissue box, carafe, candle |
| Height | Vary heights of items |
| Texture | Mix textures |
| Color | Stick to a color palette of 3-4 colors |
| Symmetry | Match lighting fixtures for symmetry |
| Mismatching | If mismatching, ensure nightstands are of similar height and size, and complement each other in at least one way |
What You'll Learn
Include a statement lamp
When decorating your nightstands, you can add a statement lamp to bring style to your bedroom. A substantial fixture can ground your nightstand while adding style, colour, and texture to the room, especially if you opt for minimal other decor. Look for a lamp that is about 1/3 the width of the nightstand and 1/3 to 2/5 the height of the nightstand for the best visual impact.
As a general rule, bigger is better when it comes to lamps, and they should ideally be around 28 to 32 inches tall. When sitting up in bed, the bottom of the lampshade should be at your chin level. If you have a window beside your bed, you can embrace this as part of your design and keep the styling simple with your lamp and a few low decorative objects.
If you want to free up space on your nightstand, you could opt for a sconce or a hanging pendant instead of a table lamp. Sconces are a great way to bring light closer when you need it for reading, and adjustable options allow you to control the light direction. Hanging pendants are a more modern, unexpected look and will also give you extra space on your nightstand. However, they may require an electrician to install junction boxes in the ceiling.
When choosing a statement lamp, consider the size of the room and the furniture the nightstand rests beside. The styling should neither overwhelm nor underwhelm the space. For example, expansive rooms with high ceilings can handle larger vignettes, while a smaller bedroom needs appropriately sized furniture.
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Choose your lighting source
When choosing a lighting source for your nightstand, you have a few options to consider. The most common choice is a table lamp, which can add style, colour, and texture to the bedroom, especially if you opt for minimal other decor. When choosing a lamp, ensure it is in proportion with the bed, nightstand, and decor it is displayed with. As a general rule, lamps that are about one-third the width of the nightstand and one-third to two-fifths the height of the nightstand will look best.
Another option is a sconce, which is great if you want to free up space on the top of your nightstand. Sconces are available in hardwired and plug-in options, but remember that with the latter, the cord will be visible. When hanging a sconce, ensure it is mounted at shoulder height when sitting up in bed and is close enough to turn on without getting out of bed. In most cases, the sconce should be centred with the bedside table.
A third option is a hanging pendant, which gives a more modern and unexpected look and also frees up space on your nightstand. This option typically requires an electrician to install junction boxes in the ceiling, adding to the cost. Try to hang pendants so that the light is about 28 to 32 inches above the top of your nightstand to allow room for decorative objects and adequate illumination when sitting in bed.
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Look for hidden storage
When decorating your nightstands, it's important to consider both form and function. You may have objects that you need at your bedside, but don't necessarily want on display, such as books or hand lotion. Look for nightstands that include hidden storage options to tuck these items away.
Nightstands with built-in storage options like drawers, shelves, and cabinets can provide discrete spaces to store items out of sight. If your nightstand has an open shelf or cubby, consider using decorative baskets or bowls to conceal items while adding a stylish touch. Pretty lidded boxes or decorative bowls on top of the nightstand are also great for storing smaller essentials like earbuds, lip balm, or jewellery.
If you're looking for more discreet storage solutions, consider nightstands with hidden compartments. These can range from simple pull-out drawers to concealed compartments with locks or RFID access. Floating shelves with hidden drawers or concealed wall-mounted storage options are also available. These hidden storage compartments can be used to securely store valuables, firearms, or personal items you want to keep out of sight.
When choosing a nightstand with hidden storage, ensure that the scale and proportions match the bed and surrounding decor. Nightstands of identical or similar heights will create a more polished and symmetrical look, while those with noticeably different heights will result in an asymmetrical design.
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Add art or mirrors
Adding art or mirrors to your nightstands can elevate your bedroom décor and create a stylish and functional space. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
Create a Focal Point with Mirrors
Placing mirrors behind or above your nightstands can instantly enhance the aesthetic of your bedroom. Mirrors create the illusion of increased space and add decorative appeal. They also contribute height to the room, drawing the eye upward and making the ceiling appear taller. Consider using tall mirrors with modern lines or ornate gold frames to create a dramatic and practical focal point. If you have low-hanging ceilings, this trick can make the space feel more open and airy.
Enhance Lighting with Mirrors
Mirrors are excellent tools for reflecting and dispersing light throughout your bedroom. They can brighten up smaller or darker rooms by amplifying both natural and artificial light sources. Positioning mirrors behind or near your nightstands will enhance the lighting in the room, making it appear brighter and more welcoming. This is especially beneficial if your bedroom lacks adequate overhead lighting.
Achieve Calming Symmetry
Symmetry is a key design principle for creating a harmonious and serene bedroom. Matching mirrors and lamps on both sides of the bed can add a sense of calming symmetry to your sleep space. This balanced approach also allows for more decorative freedom on your nightstands, as you can include personal items, books, and knick-knacks while maintaining a tidy and cohesive look.
Play with Shapes and Styles
When adding art or mirrors to your nightstands, consider mixing shapes, styles, and formats. For example, pair an arched or round mirror with a rectangular nightstand, or vice versa. You can also experiment with different frames, such as wooden or brass frames, to complement the overall style of your bedroom. Don't be afraid to mix and match to create a unique and personalized space.
Incorporate Nature and Texture
Add a touch of nature and texture to your nightstands by incorporating floral or greenery elements. Floral frame mirrors, for instance, can introduce a soothing and graceful atmosphere. You can also include bud vases with greenery or fresh flowers to bring life and elegance to your bedside tables.
By following these tips and incorporating art or mirrors, you can transform your nightstands into stylish and functional spaces that enhance the overall ambiance of your bedroom.
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Include something living
Adding something living to your nightstand can bring a sense of life and energy to your bedroom. Whether you opt for real or faux plants, this pop of greenery can make a big impact. If you're looking for specific ideas on how to incorporate something living into your nightstand décor, here are some suggestions:
Fresh Flowers
A vase of fresh flowers can add a touch of elegance and beauty to your nightstand. They can be paired with a statement lamp, creating a simple yet eye-catching display.
Houseplants
If you're looking for something more long-lasting than fresh flowers, consider a pretty houseplant. A small succulent or a vase of cut branches can bring the same energy into your space.
Air-Purifying Plants
Not only do plants add a decorative touch, but certain varieties can also improve the air quality in your bedroom while you sleep. Aloe vera and snake plants are known for their air-purifying properties.
Branches and Greenery
If you're not ready to commit to a full houseplant, consider adding a bouquet of fresh or silk greenery, or even just a few cut branches. This can be an easy way to bring the outdoors in and create a natural, organic feel in your bedroom.
Herbs
In addition to common houseplants, you could also try adding a small potted herb to your nightstand. This not only provides the benefits of something living but also offers a practical use for cooking!
Remember, when adding something living to your nightstand, consider the scale and size of the plant in relation to your nightstand and the room. You don't want it to overwhelm the space or take up too much valuable real estate on your bedside table.
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Frequently asked questions
Mismatched nightstands can add a unique, eclectic look to your bedroom. To make them work, ensure they are roughly the same height and size, and that they complement each other in terms of colour, finish, or style. You can also add symmetry by including matching lamps or wall sconces.
When decorating your nightstand, it's important to balance aesthetics with functionality. Include a lamp, and consider adding fresh flowers or a small pot of succulents, as well as a framed photograph or painting.
When choosing a nightstand, consider the height, style, storage options, and functionality. The nightstand should be almost the same height as your top mattress, and the lamp should be roughly the same height as your bedhead. Choose a style that complements the other elements in your room, such as a sleek wood bedside table to go with a velvet headboard. If you want extra storage, look for a nightstand with drawers or shelves.
