{05.17.12} Space

If your nightstand is nothing more than a lonely graveyard of forgotten items, remotes and an outdated alarm clock, it's time you assembled a bedside table that's more considered. Whether it's a proper stand, a tray table or a tree stump, a few key essentials will ensure you feel like a grown up when getting in and out of bed. Keep the pieces within your own style, but here are some suggestions to get you started.

With an easy on/off pull chain and a cotton shade, this bronze lamp's small footprint leaves plenty of tabletop space.

$45, at Target

For recording those seemingly brilliant post-dream ideas, a moleskine notebook with a matching streamlined pen.

Pen and notebook, $10 each by Moleskine

Most of us use our phones for alarm clocks. Why not invoke midcentury design and recharge your phone at the same time?

$30, at Areaware

There are some things you want on hand that you don't need people to see. Stash them in here and they're none the wiser.

$30, at CB2

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  A better night's sleep? We ask the experts how to do it.

Whether you're lighting the fires of romance or just trying to improve the aroma of your bedroom, you can't go wrong with a subtly scented candle.

$26, by Sydney Hale

Get a succulent. They look nice, barely require any water and unlike other plants, give off oxygen at night as well as during the day.

$20, at 1-800-Flowers