Is there anything more satisfying than finding a new use for an old item? At present I can't think of one because I am too smitten with these "think outside the box" repurposed bedside storage ideas.
I think the best thing about moving away from traditional 'tables' is that you can create your bedside storage around your personal style and your use. Plus, if you find yourself in need of a ladder or a stool... you only have to rearrange a bit!
TOP ROW
1. Metal drums. These bedside drums by Paul Massey look right at home in this minimalist room.
2. Stools. Perfect for low set beds that get lost beside bulky beside units.
3. Ottomans/Cushions. If you want to create a really soft, sleeping on a cloud feel, why not extend it to your bedside!
4. Boxes/Trays. Ideal beside storage for magazine lovers.
5. Card Drawers/Filing Cabinets. Katie Marx used a small filing drawer to create extra space and storage.
BOTTOM ROW
6. Sleepers/Beams. Rob Brinson and Jill Sharp Brinson created a simple and effective bedside piece for their space.
7. Crates. This crate side table can be used throughout the house
8. Books. A stack of books! build it as low or as high as you need.
9. Chairs. Lisa Madigan used an old chair as a unique bedside piece.
10. Ladders. Wooden ladders are so handy!
(Images: see links above)
Before & After: Emily Henderson Transforms a Senior's Studio Space
Danielle's Charming, Classic Walk-Up
Good Food to Share 
The Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces 
Apartment Therapy Presents 
The Eight-Step Home Cure 
White Enamel Four-P...
On Saying No to Paleo: Why Eating Isn't One Size Fits All
Perfect Summer Cocktail Recipe: Honey Bourbon Lemonade
I think I have done most of these at one time or another. lol We need to get really creative and use recycled goods or multi-purpose items.
i really like that idea of using little wooden ladders!Now, where can I find one?
I use a very large flat topped bookend as my bedside table. It has enough room for my solar lamp, alarm clock and a glass of water.
Boy would I like a pattern for that afghan...
Cosgrove, I spent all night searching with no luck! :(
Hey LovieDovie! Try http://villageyarnshop.net/news/ scroll down--I think that is the pattern. Will you make one for me?
So I was clicking through the photos, and I'm like, "Ok, a stool, an ottoman, a cat, a... wait, what?"
Does anyone know where the quilt in pic #2 comes from? I think I'm in love!
where did you get that tree that you have on the back wall? we're moving into our first home and that's amazing and exactly what we want for our living room. thanks!
anyone know where the blanket (duvet?) in pic #3 came from?
I'm inspired to make cushions and cushion covers...... so easy to change the feel of rooms by just changing the covers!
@ ljgfromof: You're amazing! I'm pretty sure it's the closest I'd ever find.
Bringing old stuff back from the dead as a lovely furniture piece is definitely the way forward! Check out this blog post on repurposing old home appliances