Ideas for Nightstands

Fitting the Space

• Measure the horizontal and vertical space available for a nightstand. Shelves on a nearby wall may limit height; the distance between the bed and a wall may limit floorspace. The important thing is that you know the size of the space and carry those dimensions with you when shopping for a potential nightstand.

Storage Needs

• Consider what you want to store in the nightstand. If you need space only for an alarm clock, you can use a small table and add a floral arrangement, real or artificial, and perhaps a lamp. Cover it with a cloth to the floor that coordinates with other textiles in the room.

Nightstand Multi-tasking

• Some nightstands can be used to store more than nighttime supplies. You might consider a short file cabinet. Look for one with two shallow drawers and a third deep bottom drawer. The top drawer can hold your glasses and any other personal items, the second reading materials and the third, personal papers or supplies for your home office. A small dresser or cupboard not specifically designed as a nightstand may provide the storage you need and coordinate with your decor.

Think Vertically

• When you have no room for a nightstand, think about your space in a different way. Look at wall shelves as a place to put small bedtime necessities; even decorative hooks could be put to use from which to hang objects you may need. Install a reading lamp on the wall. All of these ideas will free up precious floorspace.

Nontraditional Night Stands

• Search flea markets and garage sales for objects that could double as nightstands. Scout antique stores for small, affordable pieces; older houses had less storage than current ones and small pieces of furniture held a variety of necessities. If you've ever wanted to own a pie safe, a wire-backed ice cream parlor chair or a plaster flower pedestal, you may have just the right spot for it -- next to the bed. Make certain you've brought your measurements along.