Your nightstand might be the last thing you think about when you redecorate.
Your nightstand may be a small surface. However, your bedside table significantly impacts the overall look of your bedroom.
So, you need to make sure you make the most of it.
Whether you want it to reflect your style or you use it mainly as a container for your practical items, one thing is for sure: you need to keep it both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Luckily, you can make this small area a pretty stylish focal point with a few easy tricks.
1. Get the Height & Style Right
Generally, bedside tables should be about the same height as your mattress, measured at the top. Anything much higher or lower won’t look right, making reaching your necessities uncomfortable.
When it comes to depth, you don’t want anything much more profound than 24 inches. Anything more significant than that can make it awkward to get in and out of bed.
As per your nightstand style, you should always consider the style of your bed. For instance, a fancier buttoned headboard or an upholstered bed in a bolder colour will often work best with a minimalistic bedside table, while a simple bed will require a more stylish piece.
2. Group Items in Odd Numbers or The Rule of Three
This rule is as simple as it sounds.
The rule guidelines of threes say that things arranged in odd numbers are more appealing, memorable, and effective than even-numbered groupings.
Also, when you see an odd number of things, your eye is forced to move around more, which makes for a more engaging visual experience.
Start with your tallest piece and end with your most minor. Use trays to group things or stack books horizontally to create a “shelf” for accessories.
3. Keep It Practical
Your bedside table can act as a practical home for your belongings. It can be a place for your alarm clock, jewellery, or favourite books.
But while the choice of accessories is unlimited, a few power pieces can keep it more impactful and practical. Consider the items you use before sleep, such as your glasses, a reading lamp, or a glass of water.
To add even more functionality, pick a nightstand with drawers to keep clutter at bay.
4. Turn the Spotlight on It!
Every nightstand needs lighting. And choosing a suitable lamp can help define the overall look of your bedroom.
Remember, the rule of three says that things arranged in odd numbers are more appealing, memorable, and effective than even-numbered groupings.
Therefore, your lamp can be the tall element in your composition, with two other accessories to complete the look. A wall sconce might be a better option if you are working with a smaller surface.
5. Keep it Vibrant with Fresh Flowers
You can never go wrong with greenery. And what better way to include some texture and keep things spicy than throwing in some seasonal flowers?
Living plants are another way to bring nature indoors and feel more connected to the outside world.
6. Play with Scale
Another important decor rule is to work from heavy to light. You can also apply this when you style your bedside table. Consider arranging the heavier items, such as books, at the bottom and the lighter bits at the top. Embrace different heights, shapes, and textures.
Think of tall glass vases, medium-height wooden frames, and decorative metal bowls.
7. Anchor it With an Art Piece
Adding some art at the top of your nightstand has the potential to shift a room’s focal point. Artwork is also great for adding extra character to your bedside table and will help tie all the bits together under the same theme. Ground your nightstand with a big picture at the back or hang it above its centre.
Pick some accent colours in your wall art taken from your bedroom colour scheme to keep it cohesive with your overall bedroom feel.
Your nightstand doesn’t have to be an afterthought in your decorating process. It has an untapped styling potential, and with the right tools and these simple rules, it is easy to turn it into your bedroom’s focal point.
Your nightstand doesn’t have to be an afterthought in your decorating process. It has an untapped styling potential, and with the right tools and these simple rules, it is easy to turn it into your bedroom’s focal point.
These are just some easy ways to help you keep it functional without compromising on style, so make sure you strike a good balance between practicality and aesthetics, and you are good to go.