Bedside Table Study

I often get asked by friends and clients about bedside tables- do they need to match?  Can I get away with just one on one side?  What if my space is limited?  So today I thought I'd share my thoughts and advice on bedside design.  I personally love to see a bed framed with matching side tables/dressers.  The symmetry of it is pleasing to the eye.  Add wall-mounted sconces for a luxe alternative to table lamps:

{Lonny Mag}

{Amber Interiors}

Adding a bench at the end of the bed is another pretty framing device.  Ideally, one with a width of about 6" less than your bed width is best.

{Trad Home}

{Spazio Rosso}

Symmetry is beautiful, but mis-matched bedside tables can add visual interest and uniqueness to a room:

{Emily Henderson}

{Suzanne Rheinstein}

Not in to bedside tables, or don't have the space for them?  Bedside chairs can do the trick!

{Vogue}

{Jute Interior Design}

If space is an issue, one bedside table is fine.  But to balance out the look, I'd put a tall fiddle leaf plant or even a pretty floor lamp on the other side of the bed. The ideal height of a bedside table is even with your mattress top, but going about 6" above is okay, too.  In fact, I personally prefer the height difference a bit.

What are your thoughts- what bedside look do you prefer?