Bedside Tables, Tallboys & Drawers: NZ Bedroom Storage Guide
Your bed might be the centrepiece, but it's the bedside tables, tallboy drawers, and lowboy drawers that pull a bedroom together. If you're shopping for bedside tables NZ or a new chest of drawers NZ, here's how to choose pieces that look great and work hard.
Bedside Tables: More Than Just a Nightstand
A bedside table holds your phone, lamp, book, and water glass within arm's reach. But the right one also adds style and storage to your bedroom. Here's what to consider:
How to Choose the Right Bedside Table
- Height: Your bedside table should sit level with or slightly below the top of your mattress. For standard beds, look for tables 55–65 cm tall.
- Width: Allow at least 40 cm width for a lamp and essentials. Larger bedrooms can accommodate 50–60 cm tables with drawers.
- Storage: Open shelves are easy to access; drawers hide clutter. A combination of both is ideal.
- Material: Match or complement your bed frame. Timber bedside tables in Oak, Walnut, or painted finishes work with most bedroom styles.
- Pairs: Matching pairs create symmetry. Mismatched pairs (same height, different styles) add character.
Tallboy Drawers: Vertical Storage for Compact Bedrooms
A tallboy (tall chest of drawers) is the smart choice when floor space is limited but you need serious storage. Standing 120–150 cm tall with 5–7 drawers, a tallboy NZ stores folded clothing, linen, and accessories vertically instead of horizontally.
When to Choose a Tallboy
- Your bedroom doesn't have a built-in wardrobe
- You need storage for two people but have limited wall space
- You want to keep frequently worn items separate from wardrobe storage
Lowboy Drawers: Long, Low & Versatile
A lowboy (long dresser) is wider and lower than a tallboy, typically 80–90 cm tall with 6–9 drawers across two or three columns. Lowboy drawers NZ work as bedroom dressers, hallway storage, or even living room sideboards.
When to Choose a Lowboy
- You have wall space but low ceilings or a window to work around
- You want a surface for a mirror, TV, or decorative items
- You prefer to see into drawers easily without reaching up
Chest of Drawers: The All-Rounder
A standard chest of drawers falls between a tallboy and lowboy in height — typically 4–5 drawers at around 100–110 cm tall. It's the most versatile option and suits most bedroom layouts.
Materials & Styles Available in NZ
| Material | Style | Durability | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid NZ Pine | Natural, Scandi, Coastal | Excellent | $300–$800 |
| Oak | Classic, Hamptons | Excellent | $500–$1,200 |
| MDF / Melamine | Modern, Budget | Good | $150–$500 |
| Painted Timber | Coastal, French Provincial | Very Good | $400–$900 |
Matching Your Bedroom Suite
For a cohesive look, choose bedside tables and drawers from the same range as your bed frame. Our bedroom furniture collection includes matching suites where every piece — bed frame, headboard, bedside tables, tallboy, and lowboy — shares the same timber, finish, and hardware.
Alternatively, mix metals and materials for an eclectic look: pair a timber bed with painted bedside tables, or add brass-handle drawers to a modern upholstered bed.
Buying Tips
- Measure first — Check the depth as well as width. Deep drawers store more but need clearance to open fully.
- Check drawer quality — Dovetail joints and ball-bearing runners last longer than stapled corners and plastic slides.
- Consider weight — Solid timber is heavier but far more durable. If you move frequently, lighter options may suit better.
- Try in person — Colours and finishes look different in real life. Visit our Papakura showroom to see pieces up close.
Shop Bedroom Storage
Browse bedside tables, tallboys & drawers or call 09-267 3266 for availability and pricing. Interest-free finance available on all bedroom furniture.
