Struggling to nail down what kind of bed you need for your bedroom? We hear you. A quick search for bed ideas on Pinterest and Google reveals a near unlimited range of styles and ideas, but there are only five different types of beds that truly stand out in terms of functionality and design:
- Standard bed
- Divan bed
- Ottoman bed
- Bunk bed
- Poster bed
You’re probably familiar with most of these beds, although there are some neat facts about each that may sway you towards one over the other. Let’s run through them in detail to help you decide which type of bed is best suited for your specific needs and bedroom layout.
Let’s jump in and explore each option thoroughly!
Standard bed
Standard bed
A standard bed frame has four legs and a slatted base with space underneath the bed. A bed frame like this can be traditional (high) with around 20cm between the base and floor, offering ample storage space beneath, or it can be contemporary (low) with a gap of approximately 3cm for a more modern, minimalist aesthetic.
Standard frames are the most popular types of beds because they convey a sense of purpose and style whilst offering versatility in design. The frame is available in metal, wood, or a mix of materials, with unlimited styles from ornamental Victorian-inspired designs to clean-lined Scandinavian pieces. This variety means you can easily find a standard bed that perfectly complements your bedroom’s décor and personal taste.
Pictured: Scandinavian 4FT 6 Double Bed Frame, Available from Bedstar the Online Bed Superstore
The downside to standard bed frames is they stick out more than divans or ottomans because the structure is longer and wider than the mattress. This additional footprint needs to be considered when planning your bedroom layout, particularly in smaller spaces where every centimetre counts.
Divan bed
Divan beds have a solid frame built as a single unit to create a mattress base. The divan frame is precisely the same size as the mattress, and the base can be either slatted for better ventilation or solid for firmer support. Divans are space-saving beds that increase usable floor space, making them an excellent choice for smaller bedrooms or where maximising space is a priority.
The MDF frame on a divan bed is wrapped in high-quality upholstery like tweed, cotton, faux leather or crushed velvet, and this creates a unique style that can soften spaces more so than the wood or metal frame of a standard bed. The upholstered finish adds a touch of luxury and can be chosen to match or complement your existing bedroom furnishings.
Pictured: Giltedge Beds Comfort 1000 Divan Bed, Available from Bedstar The Online Bed Superstore
In addition to freeing up floor space, divans have in-built drawers for additional storage, typically offering two to four drawers depending on the size of the bed. You can also change the look of a divan bed with a different headboard, allowing you to update the style of your bed without replacing the entire unit.
Ottoman bed
Ottoman beds have a solid frame like a divan bed, but an ottoman uses the entire bed base as storage space, unlike a divan. The base lifts from the foot of the bed, taking the mattress with it, with a full hydraulic strut system to prop it up safely and securely. This innovative design makes accessing stored items remarkably easy compared to traditional under-bed storage solutions.
Ottoman beds are the best choice if you need lots of storage space, particularly in bedrooms where wardrobe space is limited. The entire base is dedicated storage space, allowing you to store all your shoes, seasonal clothing, spare bedding, and other items neatly out of sight. Best of all, ottomans are the same size as divans and come in most of the same styles, offering the perfect blend of practicality and aesthetic appeal without compromising on either aspect.
Are there any downsides to an ottoman? While the storage capacity is impressive, some users might find the lifting mechanism challenging, particularly when accessing items frequently or if you have mobility issues. The hydraulic system, though well-designed, requires some physical effort to operate, and you’ll need to remove any decorative items from the bed before lifting the base. Additionally, if you’re someone who regularly rotates or flips their mattress for maintenance, the process becomes slightly more complicated with an ottoman bed. In such cases, a divan bed with conventional drawers might be a more practical choice for your needs.
Pictured: Fusion Ottoman Bed, from only £229. Available from Bedstar The Online Bed Superstore
Bunk bed
A bunk bed is an elevated bed configuration that offers versatile sleeping arrangements, typically featuring two or three stacked bunks, or alternatively, a single elevated bed with a functional desk space underneath. These space-efficient solutions are particularly popular for children’s rooms, combining the excitement of elevated sleeping with practical space utilisation, effectively serving multiple purposes within a single piece of furniture.
The market offers an extensive range of bunk bed variations to accommodate different needs and room configurations. These include specially designed cot beds for younger children, small double bunks for teenagers, L-shaped arrangements for corner spaces, triple bunks for maximum sleeping capacity, trunk bunks with integrated storage, and lift and study combinations that incorporate workspace solutions. This variety ensures there’s a perfect match for virtually any bedroom setup.
When it comes to construction materials, bunk beds typically come in either wood or metal variations, each offering distinct advantages. Wooden bunk beds are often preferred for younger children due to their softer, warmer aesthetic and rounded edges, providing both comfort and safety. For older children and teenagers, metal bunk beds present a more practical option, offering superior durability and easier maintenance – a loose joint or squeak can usually be remedied by simply tightening a bolt.
Poster bed
A poster bed features four distinctive vertical columns extending upward from each corner of the frame. These elegant posts can support various additions such as a tester (canopy), decorative panel, or protective netting, offering both privacy and aesthetic appeal. One of the most striking features of poster beds is their ability to draw the eye upward, creating a dramatic effect that particularly complements rooms with high ceilings.
While poster beds are especially sought-after in period properties and spaces with generous ceiling heights, they do require careful consideration regarding space planning. Their substantial horizontal footprint can make bedrooms feel more confined than they actually are.
For those seeking to create a dramatic focal point in their bedroom, a poster bed serves as an ideal choice. These beds are available in various styles, from modern interpretations to classic designs and eclectic variations, ensuring compatibility with any interior design scheme. However, potential buyers should consider that poster beds can sometimes appear dated, and their substantial framework may obstruct views and sightlines within the room.
About Debz Louise
Debz Louise is a UK-based lifestyle expert and the founder of several lifestyle blogs, including Wannabe Princess and Under 5s. Specializing in everything from interior design and home renovation to body-positive fashion and early years development,