Bedroom
What Is a Platform Bed? How to Shop for Your Bedroom
When you’re shopping for your bedroom, you’ll likely come across platform bed options. There are various looks and styles to choose from, depending on your needs and space. So what is a platform bed?
A platform bed is constructed of a low bed frame with horizontal slats for support. The sturdy base is designed to support a mattress without the need for a box spring. Platform beds are often designed with a lower profile than other types of beds. Though they can come with or without a headboard, they typically do not have footboards.
When it comes to construction and style, there are various options. Wood is a common material for platform beds, and it can be left natural or painted. You can also opt for an upholstered option. Some platform bed frames are even designed to allow the mattress to sit down slightly in the bed frame for a snug look. Since they’re lower to the ground, you may not be able to store much underneath. However, many platform beds have built-in storage in the headboard for basic items. We’ll cover all of these styles later on.
Platform Bed vs. Panel Bed
When shopping for a bed frame, you may see panel beds as an option. Panel beds are similar to platform beds, but they’re more traditional in that they have the classic four sides meant to support a mattress—a headboard, footboard and the two sides—so they’re meant to hold a traditional box spring and mattress.
Do You Need a Box Spring with a Platform Bed?
You don’t need a box spring with a platform bed. The slats provide all the support your mattress needs. However, a box spring can be added if you want extra height for your mattress platform. This is attractive to many people since platform beds are typically lower to the ground than other bed frame styles. However, keep in mind that a box spring may be tricky to put on your platform bed if you have a headboard—the box spring may make the mattress too tall.
Platform Bed Styles
Platform beds are incredibly versatile when it comes to style. Here are some platform bed options to think about when styling your space.
Wood
Classic and natural, a wood platform bed is an elegant choice for any space. This is a great baseline for a platform bed: You can opt for a natural look and showcase a gorgeous woodgrain, or you can opt for a painted wood style. Sturdy and sustainable, our wooden platform beds are made with Contract Grade- and FSC®-certified wood.
Upholstered
For the ultimate cozy bedroom retreat, an upholstered platform bed frame is the perfect option. This modern platform bed style provides you with a neutral centerpiece for your bedroom. It’s a breeze to layer your bedding and create a soft, comfortable oasis. We love this option for parents of little ones—your bed will always be a soft and safe place for them!
Leather
Leather is an elegant option for any space. Opt for a leather platform bed if you want a polished look for your bedroom. The natural grain provides a dramatic pop of color as the statement piece in your room.
Storage
A storage platform bed is a popular option for smaller bedrooms. The headboard provides ample storage space for books, a lamp and other small items. You can take it up a notch with a captain’s bed. This is a type of platform bed that has storage below and the mattress on top. This style is ideal for a shared children’s bedroom or cramped guest room.
Platform beds are some of our favorite styles for any bedroom. The versatility of their design and the endless options for storage make this the ideal modern bed frame! Pick out your bed first to help guide the rest of your bedroom furniture picks.
