Introduction
Does your nightstand feel like a cluttered catch-all instead of a chic bedside feature? Learning how to style a nightstand like a designer is an easy way to elevate your entire bedroom, giving it that polished, magazine-worthy look. This step-by-step guide will show you how to balance function and style so your nightstand looks beautiful — and works perfectly for your nightly routine.
Why Styling a Nightstand Matters in the Bedroom
Your nightstand is one of the most used spots in your bedroom — it holds your essentials within arm’s reach and sets the tone for your sleep space. A well-styled nightstand creates visual balance, adds personality, and helps your bedroom feel intentional and inviting. Good styling also prevents clutter from building up, keeping your bedroom peaceful and relaxing. Whether you have a single nightstand or one on each side, learning how to style it like a designer turns your bedside area into a true design feature.
Step-by-Step Guide to Styling a Nightstand Like a Designer
1. Start with a Clean Slate
Clear everything off your nightstand and give it a good wipe-down. This helps you see your surface clearly and decide what belongs there. A clean base makes it easier to build a cohesive look.
2. Pick the Right Lamp
Lighting is the anchor of any nightstand design. Choose a lamp that suits your bedroom’s style — modern, classic, rustic, or minimalist. The lamp’s size should be proportional to your nightstand and bed: larger beds and tables can handle bigger lamps, while small nightstands need more delicate ones. A lamp with a sculptural base or interesting texture adds an instant designer touch.
3. Layer in Height and Balance
Designers always think about balance and height. After your lamp, add at least one or two objects of varying heights on the other side. This might be a stack of books, a vase with flowers, or a decorative object. Varying heights keep the eye moving and add visual interest.
4. Use Books as a Base
Books are a designer’s secret weapon. A short stack of hardcover books makes a stylish base to display smaller items like candles, a small plant, or a decorative bowl. Choose books with attractive covers or remove dust jackets for a clean look.
5. Add Natural Elements
Bring life to your nightstand with a touch of greenery or flowers. A small potted plant, a bud vase with fresh blooms, or even dried flowers can soften the look and make the space feel welcoming.
6. Include a Tray or Dish
Trays or catch-all dishes are perfect for corralling small essentials — think rings, earrings, or your watch at night. A pretty dish keeps the surface tidy and adds another layer of style.
7. Personalize with Meaningful Objects
Designer styling feels intentional. Add a personal touch with a framed photo, a special keepsake, or a candle in your favorite scent. Limit personal items to one or two pieces to keep the look refined.
8. Keep Function in Mind
Your nightstand still needs to be practical. Make sure there’s room for a glass of water, your phone or alarm clock, and anything else you reach for at bedtime. If you read at night, leave space for your current book.
9. Light It Up Creatively
If you’re short on space, consider wall-mounted sconces instead of a table lamp. They free up your nightstand surface and add an elegant designer vibe.
10. Style Both Sides (if You Have Two)
If you have nightstands on both sides of the bed, style them so they coordinate without being identical. Use matching lamps for balance, but vary the books, trays, or decorative objects to keep it interesting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Overcrowding your nightstand.
Solution: Less is more — stick to a few well-chosen pieces and leave breathing room for daily essentials.
Mistake 2: Using items with no height variation.
Solution: Layer objects of different heights for dimension and visual balance.
Mistake 3: Ignoring functionality.
Solution: Don’t sacrifice practicality for looks — make sure you have room for what you actually use at night.
Mistake 4: Using random clutter as décor.
Solution: Be intentional. Store random items in drawers, not on top.
Mistake 5: Forgetting about lighting scale.
Solution: Match lamp size to your nightstand and bed so it doesn’t look awkwardly big or tiny.
Extra Tips & Bedroom Hacks
• Match to Your Bedding: Tie in your nightstand style with colors or textures from your bedding for a cohesive look.
• Use a Scent Element: A beautiful candle, diffuser, or linen spray on your nightstand can add a luxurious, relaxing feel.
• Hide Cords: Use cord clips or wireless chargers to keep your nightstand surface clean and cable-free.
👉 Want your whole bedroom to look styled? Check out our guide on how to keep your nightstand clutter-free for daily habits that make designer styling last.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how to style a nightstand like a designer — from choosing the right lamp and layering in texture and height to balancing décor with functionality. With a few thoughtful choices, you can turn your nightstand from an overlooked table into a curated bedside moment that elevates your entire bedroom.
✨ Bookmark this guide for a stylish, peaceful nightstand that feels straight out of a design magazine — every single day!