
A nightstand is one of those highly functional home furniture pieces that most people don’t think about on a regular basis – until it’s time to purchase one. While it seems like a simple choice, there are so many factors that make choosing a nightstand tricky.
Besides being an important space for storage, your nightstand has to coordinate with the rest of the furniture in your bedroom. As you’re browsing through our stores and website, consider these tips on how to choose the perfect nightstand.

One or Two?
Traditionally, the norm for nightstands has been to have two identical nightstands flanking either side of the bed. If you have a partner who shares the bed, two nightstands is really the only practical answer. However, more and more we are seeing non-matching nightstands being used to create artistic asymmetry. If you live alone or have spatial confinements, you might also consider having only one nightstand.
Height
The ideal height of a nightstand is generally close to level with the top of your mattress. Typically, nightstands range in height from 23 to 30 inches. This positioning makes it easy to access your lighting and decor while lying in bed. Nightstands of this size also look proportional next to a bed.
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Color
The style and color of your nightstand will depend on your design preferences. If you’re keeping it simple, you can match your nightstand to your bed frame, and dresser. For neutral bedrooms, a white or light wood nightstand, like our Amity Nightstand is a popular choice. Or, if you have a darker color scheme, you might go for a mirrored or gray nightstand. Otherwise, you can make a statement with colorful nightstands that grab attention.
Storage
When it comes to nightstand storage, more is usually more. Having the essentials neatly tucked away next to the bed will make your morning and nighttime routine much easier. A drawer or two at your bedside also prevents clutter from building up on top of the nightstand. If you don’t need a lot next to your bed, there are also beautiful open-shelf nightstands, like our Getaway Drawer Nightstand. With this bedside piece, you can display a few decorative objects on the shelf and still have one drawer left for the essentials.


Creative Nightstand Alternatives
If you’re looking to break away from a traditional nightstand, there are plenty of creative alternatives out there. We’ve seen everything from a stack of vintage suitcases to a garden stool serve as a bedside table. If you have space restrictions, you might even consider wall-mounted shelves, which give you easy access to your bedside essentials without taking up space.
Finding the Perfect Nightstand at GDC
From minimalist modern nightstands to delicate tables, there are endless possibilities when it comes to choosing the perfect bedside piece. Stop by any of our three Charleston home decor stores to take a look at our collection of nightstands today. Don’t forget your measuring tape!
Shop the Look

Getaway Drawer Nightstand
The perfect bedside companion that marries the best of function and coastal style with open-air storage.

Pole Rattan Bedside Table
The two-tone Retreat Pole Rattan Bedside Table is a mixture of natural materials in a laid-back, versatile design.