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Lesley Weidenbener is a writer in Indianapolis and the author of www.TheDesignFile.net, a blog about contemporary interior design. Visit the blog for design tips, DIY ideas and home tours. Lesley is also a newspaper reporter covering politics and state government and spends her free time working on her small city home with her handy husband.

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Be creative with your side tables

shelf as bedside table bhgYou don’t actually need a table to get the function of a side table.

So over at The Design File, we’ve been exploring other furnishings or objects you can use as place to set a drink or keep the alarm clock. And some of our ideas won’t cost you a cent because they’re already around the house!

I love the way the owner of this pretty, cottage-style bedroom (photo from Better Homes & Gardens) dispensed with tables all together and mounted a shelf next to the bed. It provides space for a clock and more and the baskets underneath add even more function.

In the photo below from MyHomeIdeas.com, a wooden stool flanks a gorgeous sofa. It’s a great spot for this colorful, glass lamp.

stool as side table MyHomeIdeas

Or how about the photo below, also from BHG. The owner actually mounted a pair of drums to serve as bedside tables. Now that’s creative!

druns as bedside table bhg

OK. I admit it. Most people don’t have drums sitting around. But I’ll bet you’ve got a spare chair – or you can pick one up at the thrift store. Again, there’s plenty of space for a clock and a lamp and you can hang your robe on the back.

Hästens bed with chair as side table

In the photo at right, a set of old luggage is used as a great bedside table.

luggage as side table bhgOld suitcases like this are perfect for so many things. Plus, they offer fantastic storage – for things you don’t need to access everyday, of course.

Look around your home for other options. You might even try a couple boxes with a piece of fabric or blanket over them.

When I wanted to try something new in my living room (see below), I stacked up some attractive hardback books to make a side table for a new chair. I love the look and it shows off some books that would otherwise be in storage. (Yep, I really need some bookcases!)

IMG_5934-2

Finally, here are a couple more idea, although both involve table-like objects.

In the BHG photo at left, TV trays serve as side tables for a loveseat. The bright orange paint is perfect! In the photo at right, a desk is used as a bedside table. It’s so functional and makes a great decor statement.

unusual side tables

Looking for some other creative design ideas? Check out these posts:

Inspiration from a modern Barcelona hotel

The right lighting for your bathroom mirror

Soothing rooms all in blue

Inspirations: Spaces I love as 2010 begins…

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