unexpected source for affordable furniture and lighting

The "Great Nightstand Search" is still ongoing, despite living in our place for over a year and a half now, but it has recently led me to a surprising discovery:

KIDS FURNITURE STORES

Yes, KIDS. Pottery Barn Kids, Pottery Barn Teen, Crate and Barrel's Land of Nod... they are amazing sources for smaller casegoods (like nightstands), desks and bookcases perfect for petite apartment living and a pretty amazing array of well-priced lighting.

Observe... (pronounced "ob-ZUR-ev," Bugs Bunny style)

White Blake Nightstand, from Land of Nod, $249

White Simple Nightstand, from Land of Nod, $199

Sleigh Side Table, from Pottery Barn Kids, $179

Cute Bedside Table, from Pottery Barn Teen, $129

Book Nook Bedside Table, from PB Teen, $199

Pop-Up Bedside Storage, from PB Teen, $199

All of those nightstands are white ones that I would actually consider for our bedroom, but there are lots more to choose from at prices way lower than similar pieces made ostensibly for grown-ups, in the same factories and with the same materials. One note of caution, though: many of the "white" pieces look white online but are actually the more cream-toned "antique white." Just something to keep in mind if you're a preferrer of  pure white as I am.

Check out some of the bargain lighting you can find on these sites, in many classic shapes and textures...

Capiz Chandelier, from PB Teen, $129 (available in several colors)

Coconut Shell Chandelier, from PB Teen, on clearance for $199

Fisherman Ceiling Lamp, from PB Kids, $69

Shine-On Task Lamp, from PB Teen, clearance for $49-59

Bubble Up Lamp, from PB Teen, $59 for base, $35 for assorted shades

Light Bright Study Lamp, from Land of Nod, $32

Light Years Lamp, from Land of Nod, $40 for the combo of base and shade

Hanging Around Lamp, from Land of Nod, $89

If you want something with a girlier vibe for your woman cave, look no further than the kids stores. They have -- hands down -- the best selection of girly lighting, and at prices that are almost shocking, considering what other places charge for similar items.

Doe A Dear Female Chandelier, from Land of Nod, $89

Natural Girls Chandelier, from PB Kids, clearance for $130

White Ella Chandelier, from PB Kids, $129

Tiptoe to the Tulip Lamp, from Land of Nod, $59

I'm a Little Teapot Lamp, from Land of Nod, $59

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xoxo,