A chest of drawers is one of the most versatile pieces of bedroom furniture—it provides essential storage, anchors the room visually, and offers a prime surface for styling. Whether placed in the master bedroom, guest room or a child’s space, a thoughtfully arranged chest of drawers enhances your room’s functionality while adding layers of personality and texture.
Here’s how to approach chest of drawers styling to make the most of this practical piece, while elevating your overall bedroom storage solutions.
1. Start with a Clean Surface
Begin by clearing off your chest of drawers entirely. This gives you a blank slate and makes it easier to visualise a cohesive layout. From here, consider:
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The style of the drawer unit (modern, traditional, minimalist)
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The room’s colour palette and decorative elements
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How the chest will be used—daily catchall, occasional storage, decorative focal point?
Boori’s chests of drawers, crafted from solid timber with elegant finishes, provides a timeless base for any styling direction.
2. Create Balance with Symmetry or Asymmetry
Styling is all about visual balance. You can go symmetrical—using matching items on either side—or asymmetrical for a more organic, curated look.
Symmetrical:
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Matching lamps or candle holders on each end
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A central tray or decorative bowl between
Asymmetrical:
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A tall vase or lamp on one side
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A stack of books or decorative object to balance it visually
Symmetry brings a sense of calm, while asymmetry feels relaxed and modern. Choose the approach that best suits your bedroom’s mood.
3. Anchor the Arrangement with a Focal Piece
Every styled surface needs an anchor—something that draws the eye and sets the tone. Ideal options include:
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A framed mirror to reflect light and expand the space
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A large piece of artwork hung just above the chest
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A sculptural lamp with height and texture
A mirror is particularly effective in smaller rooms or guest bedrooms, where functionality and aesthetic need to work hand in hand.
4. Add Layers with Decorative Accessories
Layering items of varying height, shape and texture adds depth. Use a mix of:
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Books (stacked neatly or with a decorative item on top)
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Candles or diffusers in complementary tones
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Bowls or catchalls for jewellery, keys or everyday items
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Small sculptures, natural stones or ceramics for personality
Style in groupings of threes or fives for the most natural flow, and vary object heights to create interest.
5. Style with Storage in Mind
If your chest of drawers is heavily used, it needs to stay functional. Combine form with purpose:
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Use trays to corral small items like hand cream, lip balm or glasses
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Place a small bowl for coins or jewellery
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Add a woven basket beside the chest for extra throws or accessories
For a child’s bedroom, keep items lightweight and safe—like a fabric toy basket or a framed photo—so the surface remains accessible and age-appropriate.
6. Incorporate Soft, Organic Touches
Natural elements soften the lines of the furniture and make the space feel lived-in:
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A potted plant or trailing vine (real or faux)
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Fresh flowers in a ceramic vase
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Dried floral arrangements for low-maintenance impact
Boori’s timber chests pair beautifully with natural materials—think linen, cotton, stone and terracotta for harmony.
7. Match with the Room’s Overall Aesthetic
Your chest of drawers shouldn’t feel like an afterthought—it should blend seamlessly with the rest of your bedroom design. Tie it in by:
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Matching finishes with your bedside tables or bed frame
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Echoing colours from your bedding or curtains in your accessories
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Using the same metal tones in knobs, handles or lamps
8. Keep It Fresh and Seasonal
One of the best parts of styling a chest of drawers is how easily you can change it. Keep the layout dynamic by:
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Rotating artwork or mirror shapes
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Updating candle scents and diffusers seasonally
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Swapping out accessories with changes in the weather
In summer, go fresh and airy with linen runners and greenery. In winter, add warmth with candles, brass accents or rich-toned ceramics.
Final Thoughts
A chest of drawers is so much more than just storage—it’s a styling opportunity that adds elegance, texture and personality to your bedroom. With a few carefully chosen accessories, layered design elements and attention to proportion, you can create a look that’s both polished and practical.
Whether you prefer symmetry or asymmetry, minimalism or layered textures, Boori’s beautifully crafted timber drawers offer the perfect foundation for timeless style and smart storage.
