Space-Saving Style: DIY Floating Nightstands
Modern, minimalist bedside storage without the footprint
Floating nightstands offer the perfect solution for small bedrooms where floor space is at a premium. These wall-mounted alternatives to traditional bedside tables create a sleek, modern look while providing essential storage for your nighttime essentials. By lifting storage off the floor, floating nightstands not only make rooms feel larger but also simplify cleaning and create a seamless, built-in aesthetic that can be customized to match any decor style.
Materials
| Wood board (16-18" square or rectangle) |
| Heavy-duty floating shelf brackets |
| Small drawer slides (optional) |
| Wood for drawer box (optional) |
| Stain or paint and clear finish |
| Drawer pull or knob (optional) |
Method
- Cut and finish your wood to your desired nightstand size, typically 16-18 inches square or rectangular.
- For a simple shelf version, locate wall studs and mount heavy-duty floating shelf brackets at the appropriate height (typically 25-28 inches from the floor).
- For added storage, create a simple drawer box sized to fit beneath your top surface, and install drawer slides.
- Secure your floating nightstand to the wall using appropriate anchors and screws, ensuring it's level and stable.
- Add finishing touches like a drawer pull, edge banding for a polished look, or a small lip along the back to prevent items from falling.
For a truly custom look, consider incorporating subtle upgrades into your floating nightstands. Install hidden wireless charging pads beneath a thin layer of wood for cable-free phone charging. Add soft LED strip lighting underneath for a modern glow that doubles as a gentle nightlight. If your bedroom has minimalist decor, try painting the nightstands the same color as your walls for a seamless built-in appearance, or create contrast with a rich wood tone that complements other furniture pieces.
