I have lots of things: reading spotlight, a normal table lamp, radio controlled clock, radio (I listen to radio 4 when I can't sleep), pens and paper for ideas, several books, glasses and cleaning wipes for glasses, a photograph of my husband, bottle of water and a glass, a very small tray for my cup of tea, a tube of hand cream and a stick of 'snowfire' which is very, very good for the occasional crack on my hands, I spend a lot of time in my garden.

I'd go for brown bedside table! I think a grey bedspread could look great, and dark chocolatey bedside features could really give it the edge. Maybe something like this? You can work with or without the blue, though I think it does a lovely job of softening up the scheme.

That's a great bed Amelia, totally agree. It would work beautifully with Darren's wardrobe, lots of orange in there. You could really make a statement with the light, Vita do a beautiful grey feather lamp http://www.papilloninteriors.co.uk/vita-eos-standard-light-grey-feather-pendant/ which would add to the sumptuous feel (it comes in caramel too).

It might be time to part ways with the strip of wallpaper around the room. If that is able to be removed, along with the pelmut, you might find yourself better able to visualise any changes. Am thinking a little bit of a search for ideas and saving to an idea book might help identify what sort of scheme, or elements, you lean towards. That will help you work towards an overall look that will co-ordinate the style of furniture and colors. Unfortunately I find myself reacting to a furniture needs and struggling to keep to an overall vision so things end up looking hap hazzard, so give yourself time to work up your ideas!