The traditional bedside table is a space hog that offers little storage in return. For small spaces, consider a better bedside companion: the wall-mounted shelf.
Above: The wall-mounted Bedside Console is made of solid maple by PELLE, a Brooklyn studio run by two Yale-trained architects. Intended as a catchall for the essentials, the compact design has a drawer and book slot, as well as a lidded box. It's also made in walnut, and works well for front halls; $1,480 from PELLE (allow six to eight weeks for delivery).
Above: Perfect for tight quarters, the Kulma corner shelf maintains a low profile while taking advantage of unused space. It's handmade of oak by Helsinki designer Martina Carpelan—"kulma" means corner in Finnish; €95 directly from Carpelan.
Above: The ingenious Light Board from Berlin furniture workshop BRYK möbel is a wooden shelf that incorporates a hanging light, nicely detailed with a cloth cord and a porcelain socket. For pricing and orders, contact BRYK.
Above: A sidetable for the minimalist, The Edge by Urbancase is made of walnut and has a felt lined interior. It's 16.5 inches long and 14.5 inches deep; $450 from Urbancase.
Above: CB2's Fundamental Storage Shelf is made in India of lacquered acacia wood and is 24 inches long; $59.95.
Above: Ferm Living's wooden Studio shelf is part of a small collection of house-shaped shelves. Made in Denmark of smoked oak veneer, they come in a three sizes and five background colors (and with a roof that works as a book perch); €70.40 for the smallest, shown here. N.B.: Ferm also makes house-shaped cutting boards.
For a small bedroom with a lot of good ideas, see Steal This Look: A Budget Bedroom in Brooklyn. And have a look at this Stockholm Apartment with three bunkbeds built into a small kids' room. Also don't miss 10 Secrets for a Better Night's Sleep from our wellness expert Jackie Ashton.