The Tuck Bedside table from Jardan. Photo – courtesy of Jardan.

Though isolation might be starting to really test us now, if you’re lucky enough to be able to work from home it’s sheer bliss to wake up without an alarm, make a cup of tea (or even better; have one brought to you) and linger in your cosy warm bed just a little longer in the morning with a bunch of magazines. Or let’s be real… an Insta scroll!

But with all this additional time spent at home, you may also be looking around and thinking that your bedroom could do with a spruce up. You’d love a neat spot for all those mags, books and cups of tea because the last thing you want to see is clutter on your bedside table before you go to sleep at night. A bedside table makeover is a brilliant place to start. Here are a few tips to find your perfect bedside solution.

STORAGE

There are a few questions you need to ask yourself when searching for your perfect bedside table; how much storage do you need? Do you just need a surface to charge your phone and that’s about it? Or do you need your bedside table top to fit ten books, a lamp, jewellery, glass of water, plant, glasses, picture frame, hand cream and a cup of tea? Do you want a drawer, or even a few drawers?

A bedside table with one drawer seems to suit most – there is ample storage, but still a lightness to this sort of design.

SHAPE

Finding a bedside table that is the right height alongside the bed AND that fits into the space is harder than it seems. A small bedside table next to a high bed can look out of scale and it’s also impractical to use. The top of the bedside table should be around the same height of the top of the mattress, give or take 15cm. Could your bedside table be rectangular, round, or maybe even oval? A round shape is wonderfully soft and gives some breathing space around the bed.

STYLE

Sometimes when we’re looking for a bedside table, we should actually be looking for a side table. If you don’t need a drawer then a side table will suit you perfectly, and can allow for a more expressive piece. It could be a sculptural side table, something rustic or an elegant marble table. You can go for aesthetics rather than pure function.

Also, don’t forget that you don’t need to match the bedside tables and lamps on both sides. Mixing it up is a way to bring loads of personality to the room and create visual interest. Even consider a lovely dining chair (with a flat seat) as a bedside table for a super casual look!

One last thing to note…

If you still struggling to find your perfect bedside table… there is a secret weapon out there that allows you to find the perfect height and proportions, in just the right finish – a custom made piece!

There is another world of possibilities that custom made furniture can bring. Consider working with a local cabinet maker to design a set of bedside tables to your specific requirements. It could be integrated into the bedhead with a wall light over. The possibilities are endless! There are SO many great local makers to consider – we could write a whole other story on this! But as a starting point, check out Anthony Kleine of AKWT, Dustin Frische of Softer Studio, Just Adele, Made by Morgen (also listed below), and any of the furniture makers listed here!

1. Jardan – Tuck + Noah

Gorgeous timber detailing combined with a functional design means the Noah bedside table from Jardan is… pretty much perfect!
RRP from $1816

The Tuck bedside table gives a feeling of lightness to the bedroom. The open design offers a leather sling shelf with options for timber or marble top.
RRP from $1658

2. Tide Design – The Tuki

The Tuki by Tide Design has a lightness whilst still providing functional storage. It’s crafted by solid timber in Melbourne and available in a range of beautiful timbers.
RRP from $1460

3. Made By Morgen – Lil

Influenced by Scandinavian craftsmanship, this solid American oak bedside table has subtle curved edge all around. Made in Melbourne by Made by Morgen.
RRP $1795

4. Beeline Design – Cuba

Gorgeously handcrafted in Melbourne by Beeline, this cute bedside table has lovely natural leather detailing and also comes in two sizes. Ticking all of the boxes!
RRP $888

5. HK Living – Webbing

These Webbing Bedside tables by HK Living of The Netherlands are sure to add loads of personality to the bedroom, plus heaps of bonus storage! From House of Orange.
RRP $1295 (for the set of two)

6. Blu dot – Lil Something

This circular side table with a handy little storage cubby is such a great, unique piece that is the perfect balance of style and function. The name says it all – it’s the perfect lil something!
RRP $599

7. Mustard Made – The Shorty

A perfectly compact yet providing plenty of storage, The Shorty bedside table draws on a youthful locker aesthetic and comes in loads of gorgeous colours. Available from two sisters and their thriving business called Mustard.
RRP $252

8. Grazia & Co – Leo

A beautifully simple design; a single drawer and shelf under, the Leo bedside table is made in Melbourne by Grazia and Co. It’s available in a range of chic colours and timber finishes and comes in two sizes.
RRP $790

9.Hans Wegner from Great Dane

An iconic design by Hans Wegner, this petite bedside table is elegant and timeless. Available from Great Dane.
RRP $2100

10. Curated Spaces – The Chub

The Chub stool is an expressive piece, perfect for those that simply need a surface for a few books and a glass of water. It’s playful form and curated colours combines function with aesthetics. Made in New South Wales from Curated Spaces.
RRP $390

11. Future Collective – Cave Side Table

The Cave side table is hand carved out of aerated concrete giving it an individual organic aesthetic. Available from Future Collective.
RRP $785

12. Kartell Componibili from Space

The great thing about this classic design is not only is it an affordable designer piece, you can keep stacking more elements to it as you need them. It’s a great bedside solution but it can also be moved around to any area of the house. Made by Kartell from Space Furniture.
RRP $465

13. Montana Furniture from Cult – Dash + Dream

You’ll find a mind-boggling combination of configurations and gorgeous colours from this Danish brand Montana. The Dream Bedside Cabinet features a draw and a handy storage area underneath, in a super sleek silhouette. Available from Cult Design.
RRP from $940

When space is tight and storage is needed then consider a wall-mounted bedside table, like the Dash Bedside Tray. There are so many stunning colours to choose from too. Available from Cult Design.
RRP from $900