Nachtkästen

Nachtkasten (plural Nachtkästen) is a piece of bedroom furniture designed as a small cabinet or chest placed beside the bed, used for storage and as a convenient surface during nighttime. The term is used in German-speaking regions; it is often confused with Nachttisch, which more commonly denotes a bedside table with open surfaces. Nachtkasten is a traditional term and usage can vary regionally.

Construction and design: Typically freestanding, sometimes wall-mounted or integrated into bed frames. Most have one or two drawers; some include a small cupboard or shelf. Materials range from solid wood and veneered woods to metal and composite laminates; finishes include lacquer, veneer, or natural wood. Styles span from classic to contemporary.

Function and use: Provides bedside storage for items like sleepwear, reading glasses, alarm clock, medications, and small personal items. The top surface serves as a nightstand to hold a lamp, a book, a glass of water, or a charging station. Cable management may be integrated with cords routed through back panels or holes.

History and regional notes: The term Nachtkasten appears in older furniture catalogs and regional usage; in modern language, Nachttisch is more common. Nachtkästen have declined in popularity in some markets where compact bed-side tables dominate, but they persist in design catalogs and vintage furniture contexts, and in high-end or custom-made bedrooms.