I'm not a designer or architect, but it does seem that matching side tables in small bedroom spaces (my bedroom only fits a king bed and two nightstands) work particularly well.

Very interesting, few months ago when I was redesigning our bedroom, I went out of my way to get two unmatched side-tables. I wanted to break that expected/ anticiapted symmetry. So, its very interesting to learn/see your preference in this post.

We've usually had matching night beside tables, but I quite enjoy unmatched ones and have been exploring how to accomplish it in our own room... Sometimes it is the most appropriate approach, and sometimes it is too much.

For example, I think that in the pictures shown, it works best in the first and last; the ones in between look rather uptight with the matching tables. (the naked duvet is driving me nuts!)

Big fan of symmetry in the bedroom, yes! It promotes calm and order.

That said, I like a nicely (subtly) mismatched set of night stands, as long as the heights and styles are similar, and the lamps on them are a matched pair.

I used to do this when I lived with a guy, but now as a single lady, I just have my one bedside table and the other one is in a different part of the bedroom and my record player sits atop that one. I'd rather use it like that.

Bah! I hate symmetry. No matter what, it always looks uptight to me.

I LOVE attic bedrooms!

I enjoy the symmetry, and this is helpful because vintage side tables are most often (in my experience) sold as a pair, and dealers are not usually willing to sell just one. I can usually get a better deal by buying a set, plus there's something really sad about splitting up a set that used to occupy the same space in someone's home.

I'm jealous of people who have symmetrical architecture surrounding their symmetrical bed steads, like in the 2nd (doors) and 3rd (windows) pictures. Especially the windows. I really need to design and build a house one of these days.

I love both ways! We have always had symmetry in the bedroom but next time I get to redecorate I will have different nightstands.

I am now convinced I have telepathic powers with AT. I have been going back and forth about matching / non-matching side tables for about a week. I have now been inspired to match...I think. I'm all about going with the calm, orderly vibe. Thanks!

I prefer bedside tables that are actually small dressers, as I need lots of storage. I prefer them not to match.

That said, I had some made for me by a local wood furniture maker, as I couldn't find anything new or old that fit my various needs for maximum storage, height same as my mattress, fit in the small space, and look OK with the style of my bed. I ended up getting them the same size, but varied the style - one has 3 drawers, the other one drawer over a drawer.

In a bigger room, I'd get wider small 3-drawer chests, not matching, but I don't have room for that here, room too narrow.

I think the symmetry thing, match or non-match, is determined largely by personality type, and does not ever change.