How to Balance a Bedroom with Only One Nightstand? 20+ Ideas

  • Home Decor 101
  • Posted by: amy-golden
  • Jan 9, 2025

In Feng Shui, having one nightstand can affect balance and energy flow, leaving many wondering how to balance a bedroom with only one nightstand. The good news is that this problem can be improved through various simple ways. Here are 20+ ideas to help you achieve a balanced and functional bedroom, even with just one nightstand.

1. Put a Nightstand between Two Beds

A nightstand between two beds is a great option for guest rooms or children's rooms since it creates a shared focal point between two beds. This arrangement gives the room symmetry and utility as well as clearing out clutter. 

To improve comfort and accessibility, the room must be sufficiently large, with 12 to 20 inches of space on each side. Furthermore, whereas the central placement enhances visual harmony, the design can be further balanced by including matching décor or lamps.

A central nightstand can optimize room layout in smaller bedrooms (source: decorpad)
A central nightstand can optimize room layout in smaller bedrooms (source: decorpad)
Choose a well-designed nightstand and accessories for a cohesive and inviting look (source: my better shelf)
Choose a well-designed nightstand and accessories for a cohesive and inviting look (source: my better shelf)

2. Try a Floating Wall-Mounted Nightstand

A wall-mounted floating nightstand conserves floor space and gives storage space for essentials. It provides a clean, simple look but is totally perfect for minimalist decor or small bedrooms.

One important thing to keep in mind when using these nightstands is that their space must be proportionate to the bed so as to maximize space. For instance, the perfect floating nightstand size for a queen bed is between 12 and 18 inches wide. Also, for a balanced and easily accessible arrangement, keep it no more than 5 inches above or below the top of the mattress.

Attaching a nightstand directly to the wall frees up floor space for a minimalist look (source: walmart)
Attaching a nightstand directly to the wall frees up floor space for a minimalist look (source: walmart)
A floating nightstand can be positioned beside the bed to hold essentials (source: woodek design)
A floating nightstand can be positioned beside the bed to hold essentials (source: woodek design)
Add stylish décor like plants or clock on the nightstand’s surface to enhance the aesthetic (source: 10 stunning homes)
Add stylish décor like plants or clock on the nightstand’s surface to enhance the aesthetic (source: 10 stunning homes)
A wall-mounted nightstand offers balance to your single nightstand bedroom (source: simplee diy)
A wall-mounted nightstand offers balance to your single nightstand bedroom (source: simplee diy)
A wall-mounted nightstand can easily complement the other elements of the room (source: pinterest)
A wall-mounted nightstand can easily complement the other elements of the room (source: pinterest)
The design suits particularly well in smaller bedrooms or minimalist settings (source: pinterest)
The design suits particularly well in smaller bedrooms or minimalist settings (source: pinterest)

3. Make Use of a Tall Chair

A tall chair can be a useful alternative to a second nightstand when it is positioned on the side where one is not needed. This method can effectively balance the space's conflicting design and purpose than you can imagine.

For the best convenience and comfort, choose a tall chair that is either the same height as the bed or just a little higher than the bed's surface.

Tall chairs create balance and a sense of symmetry (source: my domaine)
Tall chairs create balance and a sense of symmetry (source: my domaine)
A tall chair placed beside the bed can serve as an additional surface for essentials (source: the spruce)
A tall chair placed beside the bed can serve as an additional surface for essentials (source: the spruce)
The height of the chair breaks up the monotony of the bed and nightstand (source: wayfair)
The height of the chair breaks up the monotony of the bed and nightstand (source: wayfair)

4. Place a Tall Floor Lamp

A tall floor lamp might be placed in the area without a nightstand to add useful lighting and maintain visual balance. The lamp's height not only draws the eye upward but also helps soft and ambient light spread out the room.

To decide on the best tall floor options complementing your nightstand, it is vital to get hold of a lamp sizing guide  for elements like height, shade diameter, and base size. Or else, it's a good idea to DIY customize the lampshade so that your floor lamp matches your nightstand.

A well-positioned floor lamp can fill the space where a second nightstand might otherwise be (source: apartment therapy)
A well-positioned floor lamp can fill the space where a second nightstand might otherwise be (source: apartment therapy)
A floor lamp takes up minimal space compared to other furniture (source: vepsalainen)
A floor lamp takes up minimal space compared to other furniture (source: vepsalainen)
The lamp’s height balances the visual weight of the bed and nightstand (source: pottery barn teen)
The lamp’s height balances the visual weight of the bed and nightstand (source: pottery barn teen)

5. Opt for a Decorative Stool

Have you ever thought of improvising using a beautiful stool as a nightstand? It’s a creative way to balance the space with just one nightstand, while also serving a practical purpose by holding essentials like a lamp or a book. 

Using a stool as a nightstand is perfect for settings with limited furniture or smaller bedrooms where portability and modest size are important considerations. Remember to choose the stool with suitable height and stable enough to hold essentials safely.

A decorative stool serves as both a functional and aesthetic piece for bedroom (source: the merry thought)
A decorative stool serves as both a functional and aesthetic piece for bedroom (source: the merry thought)
The compact size of a stool makes it a great choice for balancing the room (source: pinterest)
The compact size of a stool makes it a great choice for balancing the room (source: pinterest)

6. Add a Woven Basket

You may add both extra flair and storage to your bedroom by swapping out your nightstand for a woven basket. This is not only a great way to keep things like books and personal belongings organized without taking up a lot of space but also an alternative nightstand with a visually harmonious feel.  

What is more, the idea of using woven baskets to balance a single-nightstand bedroom does fit well with various styles of texture and simplicity such as bohemian or natured-theme.

With its versatility and charm, a woven basket can serve as a perfect alternative to a second nightstand (source: pinterest)
With its versatility and charm, a woven basket can serve as a perfect alternative to a second nightstand (source: pinterest)
A woven basket placed beside the bed can hold a range of items (source: pinterest)
A woven basket placed beside the bed can hold a range of items (source: pinterest)

7. Consider a Potted Tall Plant

Another balancing solution for a one-nightstand bedroom is placing a potted tall plant on the bed side without a nightstand. The presence of plants not only improves the ambiance for the room but also fills in the void and creates an eye-catching substitute to make up for a second nightstand.

Normally, low-maintenance plants like rubber plants, fiddle-leaf figs, or snake plants are recommended due to their ease of care and resilience. However, you can also experiment with other types of plants that suit your room’s lighting and aesthetic. 

It can fill an empty corner or sit next to the bed, offering both aesthetic appeal and a sense of tranquility (source: amazon)
It can fill an empty corner or sit next to the bed, offering both aesthetic appeal and a sense of tranquility (source: amazon)
The height of a tall plant helps balance the proportions of the room, complementing the bed and nightstand (source: decor pad)
The height of a tall plant helps balance the proportions of the room, complementing the bed and nightstand (source: decor pad)

8. Incorporate a Bookshelf or Bookcase

Of all plentiful advantages to employing a bookshelf or bookcase in place of a nightstand, the two most outstanding are providing lots of storage space and serving as an eye-catching balancing piece of décor. 

As these types of furniture can take up more space than other furniture solutions, it is better to apply this method in larger bedrooms with sufficient wall space.

A bookshelf or bookcase can help fill empty wall space, bringing structure and harmony to the room (source: sarah joy blog)
A bookshelf or bookcase can help fill empty wall space, bringing structure and harmony to the room (source: sarah joy blog)
By using vertical space, a bookshelf can help fill empty walls or corners, making the room feel more organized and balanced (source: hunker)
By using vertical space, a bookshelf can help fill empty walls or corners, making the room feel more organized and balanced (source: hunker)
The design and material of the bookcase can complement the existing furniture and color scheme of the room (source: decor pad)
The design and material of the bookcase can complement the existing furniture and color scheme of the room (source: decor pad)

9. Install a Mirror on the Other Side

A mirror placed on the side opposite the nightstand can produce a sense of symmetry and reflects light. In this way, not only does the mirror have a practical function, such as a location to check your look, but it also adds aesthetic value to the space. 

Thanks to a wide range of styles and utilities, putting a mirror on the side opposite the nightstand can create a visually balanced environment for numerous settings from tiny to medium-sized bedrooms or modern to minimalist spaces.

Mirrors create the illusion of a larger, brighter room by reflecting light and balancing the space (source: designs grove)
Mirrors create the illusion of a larger, brighter room by reflecting light and balancing the space (source: designs grove)
In a room with only one nightstand, the mirror helps a sense of equilibrium (source: havenly)
In a room with only one nightstand, the mirror helps a sense of equilibrium (source: havenly)
A strategically placed mirror can also help with the room’s layout, making it feel more spacious and well-proportioned (source: kolo app)
A strategically placed mirror can also help with the room’s layout, making it feel more spacious and well-proportioned (source: kolo app)

10. Place a C-Shaped Side Table

A C-shaped side table is a clever alternative to a traditional nightstand. Its design allows it to slide partially under the bed, making it perfect for smaller bedrooms.

No matter what style your room is, the C-shaped table can blend in perfectly without creating visual clutter. Just keep in mind that the appropriate height of the table should match the only bed and nightstand in the room for the best visually balanced effect.

A c-shaped side table helps you to achieve visual balance without the bulk of a traditional nightstand (source: amazon)
A c-shaped side table helps you to achieve visual balance without the bulk of a traditional nightstand (source: amazon)
The under-bed sliding feature make a c-shaped side table an ideal solution for single nightstand bedrooms (source: danpinera)
The under-bed sliding feature make a c-shaped side table an ideal solution for single nightstand bedrooms (source: danpinera)

11. Position the Bed Differently

One easy way to balance a room with just one nightstand is by creating a new focal point, which can help shift attention away from any imbalanced areas. Moving the bed is a great way to refocus the space, especially in rooms with irregular shapes or tricky layouts. 

Some simple ideas to rearrange the bed include placing the bed along the longest wall, pulling it away from corners, or centering it on a feature wall to create a more cohesive feel.

The new bed placement can highlight the nightstand while balancing the room with complementary elements (source: my better shelf)
The new bed placement can highlight the nightstand while balancing the room with complementary elements (source: my better shelf)
Rethinking the bed's placement can minimize the absence of a second nightstand (source: pinterest)
Rethinking the bed's placement can minimize the absence of a second nightstand (source: pinterest)
The influence of having just one nightstand can be offset by rearranging the bed to achieve symmetry and harmony (source: the spruce)
The influence of having just one nightstand can be offset by rearranging the bed to achieve symmetry and harmony (source: the spruce)

12. Use a Dresser or Bedside Table

A dresser or larger bedside table - positioned across from or next to the bed - can provide more space while maintaining the room's equilibrium if a nightstand feels too small or doesn't offer enough storage. 

This is by far one of the most practical balancing solutions for a one-nightstand bedroom thanks to its extremely high functionality. Therefore, people often apply this in large, communal, or multipurpose areas where clothing, accessories, or other necessities require both storage and utility. 

Placing either dresser or bedside table on the side of the bed without the nightstand can create visual symmetry (source: easy shop)
Placing either dresser or bedside table on the side of the bed without the nightstand can create visual symmetry (source: easy shop)
A dresser or bedside table can be positioned on the side of the bed to create a sense of balance (source: decor pad)
A dresser or bedside table can be positioned on the side of the bed to create a sense of balance (source: decor pad)
Using a dresser or bedside table can improve the room’s layout as well as offers additional storage other items (source: she moves the furniture)
Using a dresser or bedside table can improve the room’s layout as well as offers additional storage other items (source: she moves the furniture)

13. Place a Nightstand at the Foot of the Bed

A nightstand placed at the foot of the bed may seem unconventional compared to the traditional arrangement, but its impact on maintaining the harmony of the room can be surprisingly effective. 

This arrangement may be applied to bedrooms that are too tiny or too lengthy to support a side nightstand. 

A nightstand placed at the foot of the bed can act as both a functional piece of furniture and a balancing element (source: artful roost)
A nightstand placed at the foot of the bed can act as both a functional piece of furniture and a balancing element (source: artful roost)
The foot-of-the-bed nightstand can serve as a surface for storing items like books, trays, or decorative pieces (source: pinterest)
The foot-of-the-bed nightstand can serve as a surface for storing items like books, trays, or decorative pieces (source: pinterest)
Placing the nightstand at the foot of the bed visually distributes furniture weight, balancing the room (source: pinterest)
Placing the nightstand at the foot of the bed visually distributes furniture weight, balancing the room (source: pinterest)

14. Hang a Wall Art for Symmetry

One more simple solution to balance a bedroom with one nightstand is hanging wall art as a statement to shift focus from the missing second nightstand. Wall art can be hung in almost all sizes of bedroom, from medium to large one, as long as there is available wall space near the bed.

It is best to select artwork with symmetrical or matching frames to make the balance of the space further strengthened. 

Wall art creates a focal point that balances the room, compensating for the absence of a second nightstand (source: the print emporium)
Wall art creates a focal point that balances the room, compensating for the absence of a second nightstand (source: the print emporium)
Art can fill visual voids, creating symmetry and harmony while elevating the room’s aesthetic appeal (source: my domaine)
Art can fill visual voids, creating symmetry and harmony while elevating the room’s aesthetic appeal (source: my domaine)

15. Add a Rug

When there is only one nightstand in a bedroom, rugs are the most flexible method to soften the design and provide a focal point to balance the room.

For sizing, the advice is to choose a rug that extends 18 - 24 inches beyond a single, double, or queen bed, or 24 - 36 inches for a king bed. The rug’s color and pattern should match with the nightstand and room theme to achieve the best aesthetic. 

A well-placed rug can visually define the bed and create symmetry, making the room feel more balanced (source: reddit) 
A well-placed rug can visually define the bed and create symmetry, making the room feel more balanced (source: reddit)
A rug helps anchor the bed and surrounding furniture, creating a more balanced and unified layout (source: walmart)
A rug helps anchor the bed and surrounding furniture, creating a more balanced and unified layout (source: walmart)
A runner rug can also be placed near the opposite side to create equilibrium (source: life on virginia street)
A runner rug can also be placed near the opposite side to create equilibrium (source: life on virginia street)

16. Balance with Textiles

Another great way to balance a bedroom with just one nightstand is making the best use of textiles in the room. Any type of textiles, like curtains, bed linens, throws, and cushions can bring layers of texture and visual interest to create symmetry for your space. 

Thanks to its simplicity, textiles works beautifully in both small and large spaces, adding warmth and comfort to the room while enhancing its overall design - all without taking up any extra floor space.

Strategically placed textiles help balance the visual weight of the single nightstand (source: house beautiful)
Strategically placed textiles help balance the visual weight of the single nightstand (source: house beautiful)
Mixing textures work together to distribute focus throughout the room, minimizing the dominance of the single nightstand (source: room for tuesday)
Mixing textures work together to distribute focus throughout the room, minimizing the dominance of the single nightstand (source: room for tuesday)
Add throw blanket to the side of the bed without the nightstand to even out the visual weight (source: red bubble)
Add throw blanket to the side of the bed without the nightstand to even out the visual weight (source: red bubble)

17. Install Sconces or Pendant Lights

With just one nightstand, it's easy to balance the visual weight of the room by placing lights on either side of the bed. The best advantage of this method is you can use it for bedrooms of all sizes, including a cozy small to medium one.

To create a welcoming and comfortable space, the advice is to use dimmable or soft, warm LED lighting and place pendants 24–30 inches above the headboard or sconces 12–16 inches above with 3–4 feet apart.

Pendant light fixtures free up valuable surface space while providing symmetry and visual appeal (source: pinterest)
Pendant light fixtures free up valuable surface space while providing symmetry and visual appeal (source: pinterest)
The setup creates symmetry while enhancing the room’s functionality and aesthetic (source: school house)
The setup creates symmetry while enhancing the room’s functionality and aesthetic (source: school house)
Lighting fixtures balance the room visually by mirroring the presence of the nightstand (source: hm)
Lighting fixtures balance the room visually by mirroring the presence of the nightstand (source: hm)

18. Apply Color Psychology and Design Principles

Colors have an impact on how space is perceived, and therefore, a balanced use of color can actually equalize visual impact, or rather, lessen the sensation of asymmetry brought on by the lack of a second nightstand.

To find complementary colors - those opposite your base color - refer to the color wheel (e.g., blue pairs with orange). After that, you can start incorporating these tones subtly through accents like throw blankets or artwork to add visual interest and highlight the nightstand. Don't forget to test your choices with fabric swatches or a small wall area, observing them in different lighting to ensure they create the desired effect.

By using strategic colors and thoughtful design techniques, you can create harmony and visual balance (source: jysk)
By using strategic colors and thoughtful design techniques, you can create harmony and visual balance (source: jysk)
This approach not only balances the layout but also makes the room more cohesive (source: bark and chase)
This approach not only balances the layout but also makes the room more cohesive (source: bark and chase)
Color and design principles create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing bedroom layout (source: red lotus letter)
Color and design principles create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing bedroom layout (source: red lotus letter)

19. Position a Nightstand by the Entryway Wall

Though often disregarded, the wall in the foyer can be a surprising yet very useful place for your nightstand, improving the room's balance and order.

This arrangement is ideal for small bedrooms or studio apartments where the bedroom and foyer are a part of an open layout or where space is limited and multipurpose furniture is essential. The most suitable option in these circumstances is a nightstand with shelves or drawers for extra storage and display space.

A nightstand by the entryway distributes visual weight (source: houzz)
A nightstand by the entryway distributes visual weight (source: houzz)
The nightstand by the entryway wall serves multiple purposes, from storage to decor (source: houzz)
The nightstand by the entryway wall serves multiple purposes, from storage to decor (source: houzz)
This placement allows the bed area to remain uncluttered while providing balance to the space (source: pinterest)
This placement allows the bed area to remain uncluttered while providing balance to the space (source: pinterest)

20. Highlight the Nightstand as a Focal Point

In a bedroom with just one nightstand, making it a focal point can add both function and style to the space. The best way to highlight the only nightstand as a focal point of the room is to pick a distinctive product, whether it be in terms of style, material, or color.

Or else, accessorizing the nightstand with chic décor pieces like a statement piece of plants, or simply, a decorative lamp will further improve its aesthetic appeal. Remember that the right size lamp for nightstand not only prevent overcrowding but also provide functional lighting that complements the room’s overall style.

The nightstand becomes a standout feature, balancing the room through its design and placement (source: architectural digest)
The nightstand becomes a standout feature, balancing the room through its design and placement (source: architectural digest)
By emphasizing the nightstand with decor, it balances the perceived asymmetry of having only one nightstand (source: soul and lane)
By emphasizing the nightstand with decor, it balances the perceived asymmetry of having only one nightstand (source: soul and lane)
Enhancing your single nightstand with a distinctive lamp can effectively balance your bedroom space (source: hirosarts)
Enhancing your single nightstand with a distinctive lamp can effectively balance your bedroom space (source: hirosarts)

Consider adding an LED table lamp that changes color to match your mood or features your favorite character or flowers. It’s a simple way to enhance your nightstand and make it a true focal point in your bedroom!

21. Add Windows Decorations

Window decorations are an effective way to balance a single nightstand bedroom with only one nightstand, as they draw the eye upward and add a layer of depth to the room.

The closer the curtains are placed to the bed, the more they complete the space and the better flow they create to type the room together beautifully.

Window decorations draws attention to the space above and around the bed, balancing the single nightstand (source: maison depax) 
Window decorations draws attention to the space above and around the bed, balancing the single nightstand (source: maison depax)
By enhancing windows with stylish curtains, you can create a sense of symmetry (source: optik teske)
By enhancing windows with stylish curtains, you can create a sense of symmetry (source: optik teske)
This approach not only enhances the overall decor but also balances the room's layout (source: amazon)
This approach not only enhances the overall decor but also balances the room's layout (source: amazon)

Tips to Balance a Bedroom with Only One Nightstand

  • Match nightstand height and width: Choose a nightstand 2 - 4 inches taller than the mattress. For king beds, go up to 29 inches wide; for queen/full, 21 - 28 inches; for twins, use narrow or shared options.
  • Complement the style and shape: Make sure the nightstand matches the shape and style of the bed. If your bed is plain, think about getting more eye-catching nightstands; if it's bold, go for more subdued styles.
  • Secure the nightstand: For extra protection, secure the nightstand to the floor or wall studs to keep it from toppling over. Pay attention to the nightstand's weight restriction.
  • Balanced weight distribution: Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top for balance. Avoid bulky items that protrude from the nightstand's edges.
  • Take advantage of the light: Make the most of any available natural light by placing your nightstand in front of the window and follow the guide on choosing the best table lamp size for any room.
  • Experiment with other light solutions: Besides using traditional floor or table lamps, incorporating alternative lighting options like a torchiere lamp or accent lamp to enhance your nightstand’s aesthetic. 
  • Maintain cohesive accents: Use accents like a floor lamp and table lamp for symmetry, but limit items to avoid clutter by ensuring all pieces complement each other. 
  • Stay organized: Stay organized with storage options like dressers or benches near the nightstand. Keep the nightstand clutter-free for a balanced, orderly space.
  • Follow Feng Shui principles: Incorporate Feng Shui principles in the bedroom such as avoiding placing mirrors directly opposite the bed, positioning the bed in a commanding position, or adding plants mindfully. 

Conclusion

How to balance a bedroom with only one nightstand focuses on symmetry by incorporating complementary elements, such as matching accent colors, plants, or decorative pieces on the opposite side. Besides, using furniture and design features such as curtains, artwork, or a secondary functional piece to enhance harmony would ensure the room feels cohesive and balanced despite having just one nightstand.

FAQ

Do I Always Need Two Nightstands In My Bedroom?

No, you don't always need two nightstands. While Feng Shui recommends two for balance, one nightstand can still create harmony with thoughtful placement and design.

Should Nightstands Be Higher, the Same Height, or Lower Than a Bed?

Nightstands should be the same height or slightly lower than the bed for easy access. If higher, they can disrupt the visual flow and feel unbalanced.

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I work as a freelance blogger in Seattle, Washington. I've been freelancing full-time for 5 years. I'm interested in anime, resin art, and mechanical keyboards.

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