What to know before you choose nightstands
Nightstands are small but mighty. They keep your phone, lamp, book, water glass, and anything else you reach for within arm’s reach—while bringing a polished finish to your bedside setup.
Whether you go for a matching pair or mix things up with complementary styles, nightstands help anchor your bed and create balance in the room. Choose one with drawers or shelves for extra storage, or go ultra-minimal with a simple pedestal or wall-mounted cubby.
A nightstand doesn’t need to be a traditional “nightstand.” Think outside the box—try a stool, stack of books, or a small side table for a more eclectic feel. As long as it fits your nighttime essentials, it earns the title.
How do you select a color palette for bedroom nightstands?
Choosing the right color palette for your bedroom is an exciting (and fun!) process. Incorporating color (or the lack thereof) into a space will dramatically influence the mood and aesthetic. While it may be tempting to hit up your local hardware store to buy a gallon (or two or three) of paint, and go to town, the planning process is an important step. No one wants to repaint a room once the furniture is in. So, here’s the best way to think about incorporating color into your space:
First, set the mood: Before deciding on your color palette, think about the mood or atmosphere you want to create in your bedroom. Yearning for a calm and serene environment? Or perhaps a vibrant burst of energy? Different colors evoke different emotions, so choose hues that align with the desired mood or vibe of the room. Warm-toned colors (reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks) can make a space feel warm, inviting, and cozy. Cool-toned colors (greens, blues, purples, grays, and most whites) can make a room feel grounded, calming, and clean. But, using too many warm colors can make a room feel closed off, and too many cool tones in one room can make a space feel cold and unwelcoming. Neutral colors (blacks, whites, and browns) add a sense of sophistication and professionalism to a space.
Then, choose a color scheme: Now for the fun part! Once you’ve selected the mood, you can start to build your color palette. Take into account existing furniture and decor elements. Choose colors that complement or skillfully contrast your furnishings to create a cohesive look. A handy tip to a cohesive color story? Use the 60-30-10 rule as your guide. The dominant color (60%) sets the tone, the secondary color (30%) adds depth, and the accent color (10%) brings a pop of interest. Your dominant color in your color palette may be the color you choose to paint your walls or the color of a large area rug. Your secondary color may be used for upholstery or statement furniture. And for that final touch, the accent color brings a spark and is usually found in artworks, cushions, or decorative pieces. If you’re going for a monochromatic color scheme, consider the 60-30-10 rule in terms of shades of color.
Finally, find balance and contrast: Once you’re ready to start applying color in the bedroom design with paint or decorative touches, achieving the right balance between colors in your color palette is crucial. Consider the visual weight of each color and distribute them evenly throughout the space. Neutral colors are often paired with brighter accent colors to contrast a space. Pairing complementary colors (opposites on the color wheel) or juxtaposing shades of light and dark can enrich your design with depth and complexity.
While some colors are more popular than others for certain rooms or design styles, pick a color palette that feels right to you. Interior design is all about self expression. You do you. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to express your unique style. Want more interior design color tips? Check out our free online interior design course on Color Theory.
Understanding the color wheel: red
A red bedroom is sure to make a bold statement. The color red is a vibrant and powerful hue that can evoke a range of emotions and sensations. Red is one of the primary colors, along with yellow and blue, and it holds a special place on the color wheel. In interior design, incorporating red can create a sense of energy and passion in a space. Red is often associated with warmth (fire), strength, power, love, and excitement.
It’s important to use red strategically or in moderation in your design, as it can be overwhelming if used excessively. Red is most often used as the main color in kitchens, dining rooms, living rooms, and playrooms. Red can be used as a dominant color in your bedroom to create a dramatic and stimulating atmosphere or as an accent color to add a pop of intensity. A pop of red doesn't just speak; it sings. You may have heard of the trending “unexpected red theory” that has taken over our social feeds. The theory is simple: Add something red to any room—even when it doesn’t match—and it will automatically look better. Fun fact: the term was coined by designer and Spoak member Taylor Migliazzo!
When it comes to finding a cohesive color palette that works well with red, there are a few options to consider. One classic choice is to pair red with its complementary color on the color wheel, which is green. This creates a vibrant and dynamic contrast. Another option is to go for a more harmonious look by combining red with analogous colors, such as shades of orange and purple. These colors are adjacent to red on the color wheel and create a visually pleasing and cohesive palette. Additionally, neutral colors like white, black, and gray can also complement red nicely, allowing it to stand out as the focal point. Your choice of complementary or harmonious colors will depend on the desired mood and style of your space.
How do you pick a design style for a red bedroom nightstands makeover?
Picking an interior design style for your bedroom is a personal and immersive journey. It starts with introspection and an exploration of your aesthetic preferences, daily habits, and the overall ambiance you wish to create. We recommend the bedroom style match nicely with the rest of your house. Consider the architecture of your home, the flow of natural light, and how the space is used to ensure the design style not only looks appealing but also serves your needs effectively. The goal is to create a space that feels inviting, comfortable, and uniquely “you”.
There is no right or wrong way to define your style. Start by gathering ideas and inspiration. Identify what colors, moods, and materials you are drawn to. Are you drawn to the clean lines of modern design? The warmth of rustic charm? The rich textures of bohemian flair? Or the sleek functionality of minimalism? Your chosen style should resonate with your personality and make your space feel like a true extension of yourself.
There are dozens of design styles. One style may speak to you the most and you’ll be ready to go all in (do it!). If not, mixing elements from different styles can yield a unique, eclectic look that’s distinctly yours. Need some help defining your style? We created our own design style quiz to help you learn more about what you gravitate towards in design. The result is like the perfect blend of your personality and home. Take the quiz and your Spoak Sign be your inspiration.
Once you know the design style you want to achieve for your bedroom makeover, the fun begins! You can start planning out your color scheme and decor ideas.
What’s the best way to design and decorate a red bedroom?
Whether you are designing for yourself or someone else, bedrooms should be cozy and comfortable, providing a space to unwind, recharge, and escape the chaos of the world. Even if your typical design style is more maximalist, bedrooms usually lean more minimalist to offer a serene backdrop for a good night’s sleep. Bedroom layouts are also more simple. The square footage of your bedroom and size of your bed frame will typically dictate the best layout.
Whether you're in the process of a bedroom remodel or looking to makeover your existing one, these are the key elements to include in your design:|
- Paint or Wallpaper: Bedroom walls set the mood for the space. Select a color or pattern that complements the style you want to achieve. We are partial to covering walls, ceilings, and trim in a uniform paint color to create a cohesive look. Or consider an accent wall to serve as a focal point.
- Bed: The bed is the centerpiece and typical focal point of any bedroom, providing a comfortable and restful place to sleep. It typically includes a mattress, bed frame, and headboard. Your red style can really shine by selecting bedding (sheets, duvet covers, and pillows) that match the aesthetic.
- Nightstands: Nightstands (or bedside tables) are small tables or cabinets placed on either side of the bed. They provide a convenient surface for placing bedside lamps, alarm clocks, books, and other personal items. Pro tip: Bedside tables should be placed 2-4 inches from the bed frame and no more than 24 inches deep (any deeper and it can be pretty uncomfortable to get in and out of bed). If you choose to add a table lamp or a sconce, keep in mind the depth of the light to ensure you have enough space on the bedside table.
- Area Rug: It’s common to include an area rug in a bedroom for extra warmth and coziness. There are three common layout options for rugs in the bedroom. Option 1, place the bed and nightstands entirely on the rug. Option 2, place ⅔ of the bed on the rug, with 24 inches extending beyond the sides of the bed. Option 3, place two runners along each side of the bed (the runners should be wider than the bedside tables, if possible).
- Decorative Lighting: Combine task, ambient, and accent lighting for a layered lighting scheme. Typically in a bedroom, you’d want a flush surface mount or chandelier on the ceiling and wall-mounted sconces or table lamps on each side of the bed. Consider the placement of lighting fixtures to eliminate shadows and evenly light the space. Dimmer switches can adjust the mood.
- Curtains or Blinds: In bedrooms, window treatments are not just design statements. They help promote a restful sleep environment, while also adding a layer of privacy and warmth. Opting for blackout or heavy, lined curtains can enhance these effects, making them perfect for ensuring comfort and tranquility. Don’t forget a curtain rod!
- ** Bedroom Decor**: From accent pillows and throw blankets to bedside table lamps and wall art, bedroom accessories should be both functional and decorative. Coordinate the color and pattern with the overall bedroom color scheme and style to bring your design vision to life.
Get creative and have fun with your bedroom! If you need an extra hand, check out our step-by-step guide on How To Design a Bedroom.