It’s always special blending old and new interior design styles. It gives a look of uniqueness by blending modernism with nostalgia. One of the easiest ways that you can do this is by including antique bedside tables in your modern bedroom.

An antique piece such as a bedside table simply adds a certain history and individuality that modern furniture isn’t able to do.

What’s important, though, is to make sure you style your bedside table correctly. So, how do you make sure it complements the aesthetic of your modern room, rather than clashes with it.

The different types of antique bedside tables

There are numerous different types and styles of antique bedside tables. From Victorian to Art Deco, these bedside tables hold history from all different eras.

Some of the pieces feature rich wood tones, some feature delicate pieces, or marble tops. When styling, you have to consider the period and the materials used.

You need to be aware of all of the different types of wood that can feature in these pieces and what period they are from.

Below, we’ve included a short bullet point list on the factors of each period.

Victorian: Made from rich woods, often with ornate carvings and marble tops.
Edwardian: More refined and delicate with lighter wood tones and elegant inlay work.
Art Deco: Known for its bold shapes and mirrored details.
Farmhouse: Rustic pieces, often distressed, are these painted or worn pieces.

If you still want to know a bit more, you can read our blog on how to identify wood in antique furniture here to make sure you’re aware of what material your bedside table is.

How to choose the perfect lamp for an antique bedside table

Lighting is a huge factor when trying to combine antique and modern styles. Picking out the right lamp is not only good for practicality and functionality, but aesthetically too.

A contemporary lamp with clean lines and a metal base would create a strong contrast with that of a victorian table with its dark wood features. A modern lamp like this helps lighten the weight of heavier pieces like victorian furniture.

A simple glass lamp that gives a soft vibe would work well with that of an Edwardian-style table as they are delicate pieces. The two work well together to create a graceful aesthetic while adding a modern touch.

Geometric lamps are often detailed pieces that work well with Art deco tables, too also known for its bold shapes and mirrored surfaces. The synchronicity of the two’s bold look makes the look feel fresh and nostalgic at the same time.

If you’re working with rustic tables, they’re based combined with something along the linnes of a woven shade as it’ll keep the table having that edgy feel, whilst the lighting gives it more of a relaxed tone too.

Greenery and other accessories

It’s worth mentioning that accessories go a long way with these tables, too. Simple and minimal greenery adds life without overcomplicating.

Books, candles, and a framed photo all can work well as long as you make sure you keep the space open to show the table off without cluttering the area.

A final thought

The biggest takeaway, it’s all about contrast and harmony.

Use the table’s features to your advantage, let it add character and nostalgia and ensure that every element that you decide to include feels intentional and adds personality to the table.

This will result in a look that is not only timeless, but celebrates both the present and the past.

Worried about caring for an antique? Let us help relax your mind with our blog on the things you should never do to an antique