Your bedroom should be a haven, which means sweating the small stuff: every pillow, vase, furniture piece, anything you can imagine. Think of your space as a canvas, where every detail — like that upholstered headboard you’ve had your eye on and ideal lighting for your room — paints a picture of relaxation.
But there’s one essential piece that often gets overlooked: the nightstand. Far more than a surface for your alarm clock or your phone, the right nightstand can bring function and style together seamlessly. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to find the perfect one for your space.
How to Choose a Nightstand
A nightstand isn’t just a piece of furniture. It’s where convenience meets style. Prioritize what matters most to get the right nightstand for your needs.
Choosing the Right Nightstand Dimensions
Choosing the right nightstand means considering every detail, including how to choose the perfect table lamp to complement your style and lighting needs. A piece that’s too large can overpower your space, while one that’s too small might feel inadequate. Don’t forget to account for how much space you’ll need to open drawers or comfortably place items on top.
Striking the right balance ensures your nightstand fits well and provides the storage and surface space you need. To make the best choice, consider the size of your bed, the layout of your room, and your personal storage needs.
Nightstand Height and Width
The height of your bed dictates how tall your nightstand should be. Most modern nightstands are between 23 and 28 inches tall, fitting standard beds well. Opt for tall nightstands over 30 inches high for taller beds with thick mattress toppers.
When it comes to width, ensure you have enough space for bedside essentials like an alarm clock or a bedside lamp. Larger nightstands work well with king size beds, while narrow nightstands pair nicely with twin beds or in small bedrooms.
Understanding Your Bedroom Needs
Nightstands are not one-size-fits-all. Your bedroom’s layout and personal needs are crucial in making the right choice.
Your Bedroom's Size and Shape
The size and shape of your bedroom play a significant role in determining the best nightstand for your space. Start by measuring how much room you have beside the bed, considering the physical dimensions and layout. Is the bed placed against a wall or centered in the room? Does the furniture placement leave enough room for your chosen nightstand to fit comfortably?
For smaller bedrooms, opt for tiny nightstands or narrow designs that maximize storage without adding bulk. A sleek rectangular nightstand with a single drawer or an open shelf can work well here, offering just enough space for essentials like a table lamp or a book.
You have greater flexibility in more spacious bedrooms. Larger nightstands can add a sense of proportion and offer generous surface space for decor, storage, or nighttime necessities.
A wide nightstand with multiple drawers is an excellent option for extra storage. Shapes also matter here. While rectangular nightstands are a classic choice, rounded or oval designs can soften the look of the room and create better flow, particularly in bedrooms with lots of angular furniture.
Consider custom or unconventional shapes if you’re styling a uniquely shaped bedroom or working around architectural features like bay windows or alcoves. Floating nightstands are a great solution for tricky layouts.
Your Bedroom’s Aesthetic
Your bedroom’s aesthetic sets the tone for the overall ambiance; your nightstand should enhance that vibe. Whether you’re aiming for the clean lines of a sleek modern platform bed or the timeless appeal of a cozy traditional bedroom, choose a design that aligns with your style.
Matching or Mismatched Nightstands
Choosing between matching or mismatched nightstands largely depends on your design preferences and how you use the space.
If you love symmetry and balance, a matching set of nightstands can create a cohesive, polished look. This works especially well in larger bedrooms with king or queen beds, where symmetry can help frame the bed as the room's focal point.
For a more eclectic vibe, consider mixing and matching styles, materials, or finishes. Pairing a wood bed with a metal nightstand can add visual interest and charm. To maintain balance, keep the heights and general proportions of the pieces similar and tie them together with shared colors or complementary materials.
Whether you choose matching or mismatched pieces, ensure your choices reflect your bedroom’s overall aesthetic and serve your practical needs.
Alternative Option: Two Bedside Tables
Small tables on each side of the bed are an excellent alternative if traditional nightstands don’t quite suit your space or style. These versatile pieces offer flexibility, personality, and functionality.
Tiny bedrooms or cozy guest rooms can get a boost from the right table. With less visual clutter, you'll have ample room to move around. A petite table can hold a bedside lamp and a framed photo without overwhelming the room.
Thinking outside the box can give your bedroom a unique charm. Consider stools, floating shelves, or even storage ottomans as replacements for traditional nightstands. Unsure what to put on a table? Explore “A Guide to Buying a Luxurious Modern Bedside Table” to find the best blend of style and functionality.
Your Bed Frame Style
Your bed frame is one of the most critical factors when selecting the correct nightstand for your bed. The size, height, and overall style of your bed will guide you in choosing a nightstand that looks proportional and complements your room’s aesthetic.
King Size Beds
Balance is essential for a king bed frame. Larger nightstands with wide tops provide enough surface space for decor, bedside lamps, and nighttime essentials like books or charging devices. Look for nightstands at least 24 inches wide to avoid appearing dwarfed by the bed’s scale.
Queen Size Beds
A queen bed frame offers more flexibility when it comes to nightstand selection. Standard-size nightstands, typically 21 to 28 inches wide, are a perfect match, providing enough space for a table lamp, a few books, or even a decorative vase.
Twin Beds
Whether used individually or as a pair in the same room, twin beds call for smaller, more efficient nightstand designs. Tiny or narrow nightstands or tables work best, providing enough surface space for nighttime essentials like an alarm clock or a bedside lamp. If you have two twin beds in a shared space, consider placing one wide nightstand between them to serve both beds.
By considering the bed size and frame height, you can select a nightstand that feels proportional and complements the overall look of the space. The right nightstand enhances your bedroom’s aesthetic and creates a functional, comfortable space tailored to your needs.
Nightstand Style and Design
Your nightstand should reflect your personal style while meeting practical needs. Here’s how to choose one that does both.
Consider the Material and Construction
The materials and construction of your nightstand can significantly impact its durability, style, and how well it suits your needs. Whether you’re looking for something classic, modern, or eco-friendly, the material you choose sets the tone for your bedroom. Here's a quick guide to help you decide which materials might work best:
- Wood: Solid wood nightstands offer durability and timeless appeal. Reclaimed wood is a great option for a rustic look.
- Metal: Metal nightstands provide a modern, industrial feel and pair well with upholstered beds.
- Eco-Friendly: Sustainable options are available for those who value environmental consciousness.
Choosing the right material is about balancing aesthetics and functionality. Solid wood works well in traditional bedrooms, while metal or lacquered finishes add a sleek, contemporary touch. Whatever you choose, make sure the construction feels sturdy and reliable, ensuring your nightstand is as practical as it is stylish.
Nightstand Storage and Functionality
Maximizing your nightstand’s utility begins with understanding its storage features. Drawers and shelves are essential for keeping your bedside organized. If you frequently reach for personal items, a design with a bottom shelf or drawers can help keep everything in its place.
For those who rely on devices at night, consider nightstands with built-in outlets or USB ports. These features provide a seamless charging solution, allowing you to keep cords and devices neatly tucked away without sacrificing accessibility.
When selecting the right nightstand, consider your daily routines and storage needs. Whether you prefer the simplicity of open shelving for easy access or the practicality of hidden compartments to keep everything out of sight, choose a design that supports your habits and your bedroom's overall aesthetic.
Finding the Ideal Nightstands for Your Bedroom
Choosing a nightstand is about function, balance, and creating a space that works for you. Whether you’re styling a king bed with tall nightstands, adding charm to a guest room, or making the most of storage needs with built-in features, there’s an option for every bedroom.
Ready to elevate home decor with high-end furniture? Explore a modern furniture store like BlvdEight’s luxury furniture collection to find nightstands, modern side tables, and more to create your dream bedroom.