If it's true that your bedside table says a lot about your personality, make sure yours says all the right things. Karen McCartney finds some creative ideas for stylish bedside bliss, in many shades of grey and white.

Image – Sharyn Cairns

This image sums up the the calm, restrained style of modern Scandinavian design. The bedside table has an ample surface for decorative and practical needs and the hanging bedside light frees space up further. The height of the table is perfectly in tune with that of the bed adding to the measured quality of the room.

Image – Emily Laye via Emmas Designblogg

This arrangement uses a simple country stool to great effect. The Fifties lamp, in black enamel, and the irregular stack of magazines add a casual atmosphere in contrast to the neatly made bed.

Image – French Connection

This idea of two bedside tables, which differ slightly in height, makes for a graphic arrangement. It means that although the surface might only fit the base of a lamp the second table can be used for books, clocks and even a glass of water!

Image via Pinterest

For those of you who love a bit of industrial charm, this is the perfect side table. Its simple, open construction keeps it visually light and the addition of wheels gives it versatility. From a style perspective it adds a touch of the factory floor to an otherwise white, pretty room. The hanging calico basket is for the baby – we presume.

Image (and print available from) – One Must Dash

This look combines a certain Scandi-chic with a Japanese simplicity. The low bed demands an equally low solution to the bedside table. Add a delicate artwork, propped for a casual look and a small white fixed light to the wall for permanent illumination.

Image via Pinterest

There is something charming about this bamboo table as the only clearly defined element in a soft sea of white bedding. It is brought into line with the room's feminine stylistic direction by the display of delicate leaves and multiple candles.

Image – Heidi Hallingstad

There is something casual and chic about the use of a simple black timber chair as a bedside table. It works well with the neutral colour theme of the room and should you have an extra dinner guest it can revert to its original purpose.