A bedside table should do more than just hold a lamp or a stack of books — when styled well, it brings warmth, interest and a personal touch to your bedroom . It's one of those small details that are easily overlooked, but when done thoughtfully, can make your entire room feel more inviting and complete.

Here’s our go-to guide for creating a bedside table that is functional, fabulous and always uniquely you.

Start with a Clean Slate

First things first, clear away the clutter. Before you start styling, take stock of what you need within arms reach from a practical perspective. Add an organiser insert to your drawer and hide away all those little essentials - reading glasses, ear plugs, lip balm, etc. If they’re not pretty, don’t give them real estate on top. Now you’re ready for the fun part.

When it comes to bedside styling, keep it simple: a beautiful lamp, a favourite book, a small vase of fresh flowers, and a little catchall. Everything you need is within reach, nothing more.

Light It Well

Lighting is key. A well-chosen lamp not only makes your bedside functional but can completely elevate the mood of your room.

Look for a lamp that complements your bedroom's overall style — whether that's a handmade ceramic piece, a vintage brass fixture, or a woven design that brings in a bit of texture. If you are looking to bring something new to an existing lamp, consider swapping out a boring white lampshade for a blockprint, scalloped or pleated one. This is a great way to get a lot of bang for your buck without having to replace the entire lamp.

If you’re an avid follower of design like we are at Wovenwood, you may have noticed that layered bedroom lighting is gaining popularity. Wall lights above or beside the bed in addition to table lamps serve a functional purpose but also create textural diversity and interest. While it does add to the overall styling budget, we are loving this trend.

Whether you opt for one or two lighting options, ensure your table lamps offer soft, warm lighting to create a cosy, restful feel — perfect for winding down at the end of the day.

Add a Personal Touch

A bedside table is the perfect place to weave in a little personality. A framed photo, a piece of art you collected on your last holiday, a favourite vintage tray — a little sentimentality goes a long way to making a space feel personal and authentic.

Practical essentials matter too. A tray for your jewellery, a small carafe, or a few night time necessities. Having everything organised and within easy reach will make your space feel as functional as it is beautiful.

Play with Texture

Don’t be afraid to bring in texture — it’s what makes a space feel layered and inviting. A smooth glass lamp, a woven basket underneath, a vintage book, a ceramic vase with fresh blooms... these subtle contrasts keep the styling interesting and prevent your bedside from feeling too flat. 

Find Your Balance

While symmetry can be a great way to create a calm, balanced look, it can also result in a space that lacks interest for the eye. Matching lamps on either side of the bed is fairly safe (although we welcome a bit of experimentation with different ones if you’re willing to go there!) but when it comes to the decor selections, avoid matching and pairs - let each side find their own personality. Mixing objects of varying heights and textures will create a more relaxed, organic look. 

Above all, have fun with the styling process and don’t overthink it. With a few simple and thoughtful choices, your bedside table can be more than just a practical piece of furniture — it can be a favourite spot to retreat to at the end of each day!