Modern Platform Beds

A Platform bed, also known as a cabin bed, is a bed the base of which consists of a raised, level, usually rectangular horizontal solid frame, often with a section consisting of rows of flexible wooden slats or latticed structure meant to support just a mattress. This platform provides adequate, flexible support and ventilation for a mattress by itself, eliminating the need for a box-spring or a second mattress as a foundation.

The actual date for the invention of the first platform bed is impossible to pinpoint due to the basic fact that the modern box-spring was not invented until the mid 1860s. Since the basic definition of a platform bed is “a bed which uses only a mattress,” all incarnations of the bed up to that point would necessarily functionally be considered platform beds. While we generally think of the modern platform bed as having a solid surface for sleeping; rope, leather and wooden or bone slat bases were all used as supports for early mattresses.

Platform bed development was closely intertwined with the evolution of the modern bed. Earliest man most probably slept on the ground. It would have been cold, hard and offered no protection from crawling insects or small animals. Readily available piles of leaves and branches could be covered with animal pelts which provided superior warmth and comfort to sleeping on the ground probably inspiring the first thoughts of a raised dedicated sleeping space. The basic platform bed concept was born from this and has developed ever since in numerous styles and materials but always on the basic principle of raising one’s sleeping surface off the ground developed by early man.

Some of the earliest existing beds/platform beds were created by the early Egyptians who created a wooden framework glued and lashed together which have been found in many burial tombs. For instance, in the King Tutankhamen tomb a gilded ebony platform style bed was found. Studies of ancient Hieroglyph’s suggest that the platform beds were revered in Egyptian culture. While common people slept on simpler constructions, the trend developed to decorate the woods surface with gilding and paints and also to use carving to enhance the beauty of this utilitarian object. Ivory, exotic woods and metal were used as inlay or even as the entire foot on the best constructions, bringing artistic design to a commonplace object. This style of platform bed, which might be more accurately described as a chaise longue or daybed were the basic building blocks leading to today’s modern platform bed. This period provides the earliest representation of platform bed construction to survive.

Platform beds which might be recognized as more accurate representations of today’s platform beds were better defined as loft beds. The beds were originally situated high off the ground to allow for more living space below. Over time the beds moved closer to the ground, to their present placement.

Early twentieth century design in both Europe and America incorporated elements that helped lead to the wide variety of platform bed styles available today. Minimalism styles and influences in painting and sculpture quickly found their way into furniture design, offsetting the more elaborate designs found in the Victorian Era. The Asian approach of “less is more when done artfully” and the cultural appreciation for natural materials also helped to define the basic feel, shapes and decorative elements found on today’s platform bed designs. Mission style furniture also drew on these trends toward precise craftsmanship and a simplicity of materials which lead directly to the basic geometric building block theme still seen as crucial elements of a modern platform bed. In the 1940s futon and futon frames incorporated the platform bed ethos and continue to this day to be a popular offshoot of the platform bed idea.

Today, platform beds are generally made from wood, metal, bamboo or leather and may or may not include a headboard and foot board. Platform beds are able to support a mattress without the use of a box spring, although many beds are able to accommodate the box spring if desired.

Platform Bed Types

Contemporary

Many platform beds have a contemporary style that usually feature clean lines, neutral elements and solid color characteristics. These typically reflect European styles which usually include low features with straight bold lines. Some styles incorporate microfiber and leather padding on a headboard for use as a backrest when sitting in bed. In 1973 John Lorenc brought a design for his platform bed to Guild Furniture in New York City which was owned by Lee Strazza. Mr. Strazza built the bed and recreated it many times starting the modern platform bed trend.

Traditional and Transitional Platform Beds

Traditional platform beds are modeled after the Arts & Crafts era of furniture. These beds produce the traditional look and feel of that early mission style furniture but in the design of a platform bed. Transitional style platform bed styles often reflect a more modern look but using traditional styling techniques to accent delicate modern scroll work contained within the headboard.

These copy a style found in old traditional looking frames, though like all platform beds, it is designed with slats and does not require a box spring.

 Storage Platform Beds

Some platform beds have drawers underneath the frame as storage space, which may be located beneath the side rails or may include drawers incorporated into the footboard of the bed. Many other storage platform beds offer retractable storage headboard units which offer deep storage.

History of the Platform Bed

If you are interested in buying a platform bed, this brief history will give you some insights into the development of the platform bed; a unique bedding trend.

The Origins of the Platform Bed

Not much is truly known about the origins of the platform bed. Early man most probably slept on the ground. It was cold, hard and offered no protection from crawling insects or small animals. While no one knows the exact moment in time the first platform bed appeared, it is sure that readily available piles of leaves and branches were covered with animal pelts which provided superior warmth and comfort to sleeping on the ground. The basic platform bed was born and has developed ever since in numerous styles and incarnations but always on the basic priciple developed by early man.

The early Egyptians created a wooden framework glued and lashed together which were found in many burial tombs. For instance they found in King Tutankahmen tomb a gold gilded ebony platform style bed. While common people slept on simpler objects, the trend developed to decorate the woods surface with gilding and paints and also to use carving to enhance the beauty of this utilitarian object, sometimes ivory was used as inlay or even as the enite foot on the best constructions. The ox foot was a popular motif for this style of platform bed, which might be more accurately described as a chaise or daybed. However described, this period was indeed the first know representation of platform bed construction.

The Asian Platform Bed

Early Asian societies also developed the concept of a timber platform bed frame to raise the sleeper of the ground. The Chinese began to craft very elaborate and carved platform beds, some of which became almost a small bedchamber. Because the boxspring as we know it was not invented until the mid 1860’s, almost all incarnations of the bed up to that point can really be considered platform beds, though we generally think of a platform bed as having a solid surface for sleeping rather than having a rope, leather or slat base for the mattress to lie upon. Interestingly Asian platform beds had no significant impact on western bed design until early in the 20th Century when design became a more international in it’s influences and concepts.

The Modern Platform Bed

Early twentieth century design in both Europe and America incorporated elements that helped lead to the wide variety of platform bed styles available today. Minimalist influences in painting and sculpture found their way quickly into furniture design, offsetting the more elaborate desings found in the Victorian period. The Asian apporoach of “less is more when done artfully” and the cultural appreciation for natural materials also helped to define the basic feel, shapes and decorative elements found on today’s platform bed designs. Mission furniture also drew on these trends toward precise craftsmenship and a simplicity of materials which lead directly to the basic geometric building block theme still seen as crucial elements of a modern platform bed. In the 1940’s futon and futon frames incorporated the platform bed ethos and continue to this day to be a popular offshoot of the platform bed idea.

Zen Platform Bed

Asian platform bed design had continued developing over the course of time, each country and region building on past traditions and incorporating new design elements. While not used exclusively for sleeping, these “platform beds” ranged from heavily decorated with carvings, paint and gilding to simple timber frames but with intricate joinery which might be decorative or entirely hidden. The simplest of the platform bed designs had what we would call today a zen sensibility. Existing in a beautiful yet functional way which draws attention neith to nor away from itself. This became extremely popular for a platform bed appearance during the 70’s in the U.S.

Metal/Wood/Leather Platform Bed Combinations

While the standard platform bed was generally wood, either decorated or plain, the metal platform bed begun to be seen more frequently in the recent past. The designs were low and had many of the simple linear characteristics of the wood platform bed, the materials ranged from iron, steel to stainless steel. As with wood, the joinery had to be clean and the overall feel simple, though many decorative variations flourished including combinations of metal and wood, wood and leather, or even upholstered platform bed designs grew increasingly popular.

Contemporary Platform Bed

Today the variety of quality styles and platform bed designs is almost endless. From our humble beginnings of simply trying to get warm and off of the ground, an entire industry, style and sensibilty has arisen and will continue to evolve over time. The platform bed will be around for a long time.

Japanese Platform Bed

The low profile and simple design of a Japanese platform bed has found its niche in contemporary bedrooms everywhere. Typified by warm wood, constructed with clean lines and true to the materials it is made from, this bed is as comfortable as it is unobtrusive.

This style of bedroom furniture follows a zen tradition of adhering to nature.  Because of this, a Japanese style bed design will labor to exhibit the natural wood grain as much as possible, allowing the beauty of the wood to be the embellishment.

Although they are simple, these harmonious beds exude a great amount of elegance.  A bed made in the true spirit of zen will be manufactured with environmentally friendly, sustainably harvested timber.  It also means an ergonomic design and non-toxic finishes.  Not every Japanese platform bed frame will adhere to these standards, but there are many companies who do, and they are worth seeking out.

One such company is Modloft, specialists in contemporary Japanese furniture. Purchase a bed from this company or any other selling contemporary furniture in the East Asian style, and you are sure to find an entire bedroom set to match.

Look for rustic dressers and night stands with aged iron pulls on the drawers, and even low-seated chairs to carry on the Japanese design of the room.  Take the look a step further by using tatami mats instead of chairs.

The Japanese platform bed is an excellent alternative to the traditional futon, which requires regular reshaping, and can become uncomfortable after some use.  With a platform, one can seat a regular mattress on the bed of any size; usually King and Queen.

This style of low profile bed is easy to get into, and adds rich accents to a bedroom, without overwhelming it.  The design adds warmth and a touch of nature to your bedroom.  Add an organic mattress and bedding to complete the theme.

Modern Platform Beds

Finally a modern bedroom furniture store with unique platform bed sets to suite your refined taste. Each and every one of the platform beds we carry has been researched, tested and approved to ensure that your new bed meets and surpasses your expectations for style, price and quality. Whether you are looking for an entirely new bedroom set or just a new platform bed frame, We guarantee that you’ll love purchasing from us.

Platform beds are easily suited to almost any bedroom decor. They bring warmth and style to a bedroom, and are easily dressed to match the room around them. Additionally, platform beds are ideal for homes where storage is at a premium, as storage platform beds offer space beneath the bed’s platform complete with organized storage space.

Whether you’re are in the market for a modern platform bed, Asian platform bed, Kids Platform Beds, Leather platform beds, traditional platform bed or anything in between, we carry a handpicked collection that is tailored to your tastes. From exotic Asian style solid wood platform beds hand made from reclaimed teak and mahogany to space saving storage platform beds we’ve carefully categorized every product we sell so you don’t have to browse through hundreds of styles and sizes that aren’t right for you. By taking advantage of our easy to use navigation and sorting buttons you can limit your search to display only the platform bed frames that you want to see!

Looking for that perfect bed to fit your bedroom? Shop by size and we will show you only twin platform bed, full platform bed, queen platform bed, king platform bed or California king platform bed so you don’t have to search through hundreds of products just to find the right size for your bedroom.

Still can’t decide which set is right for you? Give our customer service department a call. Our staff members have had hands on experience with the platform bed frames we sell and can help you choose the perfect bed. Perhaps your curios as to what makes California Kings unique from an eastern king platform beds or whether a specific queen platform bed will fit up your narrow flight of stairs, no matter your question is our customer service agents are standing by to get you the answers you need.

So welcome to our selection of classic to contemporary platform beds. Without any further delay we invite you to dig in! You just might discover the perfect platform bed for you.

National Furniture Supply welcomes you to our online retail store. We offer free shipping of our products anywhere within the continental United States. So you might ask, “What is a platform bed?” The easiest answer is that these are beds designed to accommodate just a mattress. They will have a platform that consists of wooden slats or solid panels that make up their foundation. No box springs are used with these frames. Typically platform beds will feature added space beneath the bed when compared to other styles that use a mattress and box spring. This allows for under bed storage or other clean simple designs that may be able to achieve the look you’ve been searching for. Please browse our site and products by choosing the category of platform bed you’re searching for. Thank you for shopping with us today.

Wood platform beds by Modloft, Vig Furniture and Nuevo Furniture are available in USA. Solid American hardwoods and come in a choice of domestic woods such as oak, cherry, maple and poplar. The highest quality North American hardwoods. These wood platform bed frames are made to order in a variety of sizes and finishes.

Upholstered platform beds are made by several manufacturers located throughout the United States. Our American Leather beds are made in Italy and China and include many upholstered models in a choice of fabric or leather. Choose from many standard sizes in the colors or patterns of choice. Also available are Italian made upholstered beds in select fabrics and leathers for quick delivery. These feature coordinating casegoods such as dressers, nightstands and chests. Wall units are also available special order from Italy.

Available in queen and king sizes, platform beds are all available with a wide assortment of matching casegoods such as dressers, chests, mirrors and nightstands. Looking for an easy to assemble, affordable line of bedroom furniture? Choose from a generous selection of wood finishes and bed sizes. Atlantic offers matching desks, bookcases, dressers, chests, mirrors and nightstands. Finally rounding out our affordable platform beds is Night & Day Furniture. This company excels in furniture design coming up with many of their own patented innovations. Made from eco-friendly rubberwood, Night & Day platform beds are available in many sizes and finishes.

Modern platform beds are made in North America and Europe and feature clean contemporary lines. Our Canadian modern beds are manufactured in Victoriavilla, Quebec, Canada. Made from solid birch and birch veneers these bedroom sets are available in queen and king sizes. Many styles come with a steel European support system with curved beechwood slats. Upgradable to a solid decking to accommodate most mattresses. This furniture features many unique design elements that coordinate between beds and matching casegoods. Choose from over 18 different finishes. Another line of modern bedroom furniture is a line of Italian furniture made in association with Arredamenti. Manufactured in Puja di Prata, Italy these high-end bedroom sets are designed with the artistic vision of top European designers that brings modern style to any decor. Matching casegoods are also available such as nightstands, dressers, chests and mirrors. Also available are Greenington bamboo platform beds. Several styles are available in queen and king sizes. Matching bamboo casegoods feature English dovetail joinery and high-end construction.

All of our metal platform bed models can be used with just a mattress or a mattress/box spring combo as made available with the versatile mattress support system. We offer an assorted selection of metal beds that are in stock and ready for immediate delivery as well as a wide selection of beds available in special order finishes imported from Canada in the individuals choice of color. Prices for bed frames all include free shipping and a 10 year manufacturer’s warranty.

Bunk beds and loft beds from National Furniture Supply are available from manufacturers such as Atlantic Furniture and Night & Day. Customers are able to choose from styles such as twin-over-twin, twin-over-full or even full-over-full bunk bed models. Loft beds are also available in twin loft bed or full loft bed sizes. A great selection of matching casegoods are also available which include dressers, nightstands, chests and mirrors. All bunk beds are designed for a mattress only and do not require the use of boxsprings. Additionally many bunk models are available with optional underbed drawers or trundle unit. Bunks are certified with ASTM safety standards.

Platform bed bedroom sets offer an entire set of bedroom furniture at special package pricing. These bedroom sets are available by many manufacturers and will provide you with an assortment of pieces with discount pricing on beds, dressers, chests, nightstands and mirrors. National Furniture Supply offers many of set specials in 3 Pc., 4 Pc. and 5 Pc. bedroom sets. Bedroom furniture packages are available in many of the various brands and manufacturers we offer designed to provide the best possible price for customers we can offer.

Mattresses are available including our own National Furniture Supply private label of innerspring mattresses. King Koil manufacturers for our store several private label mattresses not found anywhere else. Based on the most popular designs throughout the years, these various models include firm, plush and pillowtop designs that are made for use with any of our platform beds. Affordable and made in the USA these coil spring mattresses are great for guest rooms or everyday use. Our store also carries latex and memory foam mattresses from Classic Sleep. These affordable mattresses offer a similar feel and comfort compared to many top name brands but for much less. Perfect for a master bedroom, kids bedroom or guest bedroom and available in firm, plush and pillowtop designs. Classic Sleep mattresses aren’t promotional products but rather mattress sizes and designs that our customers have asked for while leaving out the higher cost of many other name brands. For those wanting a high-end mattress our store has available Tempur-Pedic® Pressure Relieving Swedish Mattresses and Pillows. These mattresses use a pressure relieving material called viscoelastic which provides great back support conforming the mattress around the individual for a perfect nights sleep. No wonder it was awarded the Consumers Digest Best Buy award in premium mattresses. For dressing up mattresses our store has available SIS brand bedding and sheet sets. Bedding will include a duvet cover with comforter, two pillow shams and coordinating toss pillows. Sheet sets include a fitted sheet, top sheet and pillow shams.

Looking for a value? National Furniture Supply also offers clearance beds that are brand new in factory boxes and packaging. These are new old stock and several discontinued models and styles are available. All prices include shipping, and all bed frames come with the full manufacturer warranties.

Platform Beds – Ease and Convenience

Platform beds are very versatile and easy to maintain. Some of the early American styles originated in Pennsylvania in the 1880s. A company called Pennsylvania House Furniture produced high end, very functional bedroom furniture that included the venerable platform bed. Today’s platform beds continue the tradition of being both functional yet stylish.

Available Platform Bed Designs

European designed beds are fast becoming a new standard in modern bedding because of their sleek appearance. Economically, they are more feasible too. Platform beds require only a regular mattress or can also accommodate latex or memory foam mattresses. There is no need for a bulky, cumbersome and sometimes costly box spring. Modern mattresses are now thick enough that the box spring, in most cases is unnecessary. Of course, for those who prefer the look and the bed height of a box spring, both our Dapwood beds and Amisco metal platform beds can be set up to accept a box spring. These represent some of our finest bed frame models and people will find these beds to fit any decor and budget. Italian, Canadian and American designers and manufacturers make up the bulk of our online offerings in platform beds. Proven designs using the highest quality materials are important in making furniture that will last.

Why a Platform Bed?

Exactly what makes a platform bed perfect for your home?
When shopping for a new bed you’re often provided with many options. There are beds which use a mattress/boxspring. Beds that can fold up into a wall like Murphy beds. Even the motion of waterbeds are still available. However not everyone is shopping for these types of beds and may be looking for something different. Perhaps you are trying to find a bed that will better benefit both yourself and your home. Platform beds offer an interesting and unique design in the way of beds. Let’s discuss the advantages and benefits of these beds and what they can offer your home.

No more boxsprings. Just a mattress.
Platform bed support systems feature a built in foundation that will consist of either a slat support system or may include a solid panel foundation in the design of these beds. Why is this important? Metal frames that rest on the ground typically have maybe two, three thin metal cross supports at the most. This is not adequate support for just a mattress. It requires something more and on these basic metal frames they definitely need the use of a foundation/boxspring unit. What if you could purchase a bed frame though that already had a foundation built into it and wouldn’t require a boxspring? That’s where platform bed frames come in with their slat systems and solid panel systems which are designed for just that. Providing support for almost any brand of mattress and helping to meet the warranty requirements of those mattresses without having to use a boxspring.

Let’s open up the look of our bed.
Beds which use a mattress/boxspring extend down to the floor. North American manufacturers have long been making beds this way and there is nothing to argue that this type of sleep system is better or worse than another. One thing it can do however is restrict the storage beneath your bed because the boxspring extends down to the floor. With a platform bed there is no boxspring unit. This makes the platform bed more open beneath the mattress. This gives you space for storage beneath the bed either with a built in system or with more open platform beds. It really helps to open up the look of your bedroom.

Cost savings by purchasing a platform bed.
Would you believe that when you buy a typical bed, there is the cost of a bed frame, a rail system that will sit on the floor, a mattress and then of course a boxspring unit since the frame only has maybe two or three bars across it. Did you know the average boxspring unit costs anywhere from $250 to $400 per foundation? Wouldn’t it be great though if you could find a way to save money when you buy a new bed and not sacrifice quality of your bed system? You can and here’s how. You obviously need a mattress for your bed system. When it comes to adding the floor rail system, a headboard and a boxspring here is where you can make some savings. Instead buy a platform bed which already includes a built in foundation be it either a slat system or solid panel system. This one item does everything that the three we just mentioned does for your mattress. So instead of buying a headboard, buying a floor rail system and buying a boxspring unit all you need to do is invest in a single platform bed and save.

Sleek, modern and contemporary styling.
Many modern platform bed designs are taking on more contemporary styling. They are offering a lower profile bed look by keeping designs sleek with straight lines and corners that blend well and move away from high headboards or posts. These beds lend themselves well to bedrooms looking to add a modern twist to home decor buy using rich cappuccino, espresso or dark colors that have become a popular trend over the last five years in the furniture industry. However many of these beds are also available in lighter finishes like maple, natural or sand colors. These modern beds infuse interesting modern designs into each piece that move away from more traditional designs and creating new designs with both interesting form and function.

Traditional, classical and early styling.
More traditional platform bed designs are still being made today. Many of these designs take inspiration from classic designs that may have been mission or arts and crafts influences from early American craftsman. These classical designs still inspire bedroom design in today’s world and platform bed manufacturers are happy to create these beautifully crafted beds from some of the highest quality premium woods available. There is something about traditional platform bed designs that add a warmth and beauty to any bedroom.

Translating American Bed Sizes For Our Overseas Friends:
What a crazy world we sleep in!
Most modern manufacturers have come to agree on certain guidelines and principles in the design and sizing of beds and mattresses. However, there is always that international barrier to overcome when it comes to sizing. Manufacturers in the United States, Australia, the UK/Ireland and Europe all seem to have different sizes when it comes to mattresses. I’m sure it makes it difficult when our friends from across the pond travel or take up residence in the United States only to find our bedding and sheets are quite unfamiliar. In this article we’ll examine the many variations of bed sizes and offer this article up as a guide to help our overseas friends figure out and translate our sizes into theirs.

Twin or Single size as it is commonly referred to seems to be a pretty standard size in the bedding industry world wide. You’ll find that the American twin size mattress is only 6 cm wider than an Australian twin or a UK/ Ireland twin bed. It’s 7 cm wider than a European twin mattress. The standard American twin bed is the same length as an Australian or UK / Ireland beds. However these beds are shorter than the European twin bed by 9 cm.

Double or Full size beds as they are often refereed to. If the United States, Australia, UK and Ireland can agree on one thing, it would be that our double and full size beds are definitely the same. European full beds are 3 cm wider and 9 cm longer than American full size beds.

Queen size beds as they are refereed to in the United States share the same size with Australian queen size mattresses. The UK / Ireland mattress close in this size is actually refereed to as a King size there. Europe does not have a designation for this size and would most likely be refereed to as a 160 cm wide mattress. The UK /Ireland King bed is shorter by 4 cm than the Australian and American queen size bed. European beds are wider than American beds in this size by 8 cm but slightly shorter by 1 cm.

King size beds as they are called in the United States are favorably similar to other bed sizes around the world. The UK / Ireland and Australian sizes are 10 cm less wide. The European size is 13 cm less wide. United States king mattresses and Australian mattresses are the same length. The UK / Ireland Super King is only 5 cm shorter and the European bed is 3 cm shorter than a standard United States king mattress. Overall these mattresses are all very close in size.

Bedding industries whether they be North American or in Europe always offer some sizes that are not considered standard by many. However there is a market for these mattresses and that is the reason they stick around. Below are some of these sizes and how they stack up against different beds and mattresses.

Twin extra long or Twin XL beds are basically a longer single bed in the United States. Australia has a bed close in size to this refereed to as a Single Extra Long which is the same length but 5 cm less wide. The American full extra long or Full XL beds are very close in size to the New Zealand long double bed which is the same length wise but 2 cm less wide. The California king mattress is actually a size from the old waterbed industry that has declined since the 1990′s. However there were many bedroom sets made to this size and people still purchase replacement innerspring or memory foam mattresses for these beds. There are also new products being sold in this size which has given it a new life in the bed industry.

The United States doesn’t really have any small single beds. The closest here would be considered an army size cot. The UK Super Single bed however is very close in size to the American twin size bed and is 9 cm wider than that bed. The UK small double bed is comparable to the United States full extra long bed. Dimensionally it is a little smaller but would be the closest size to the American full xl bed.

For United States readers, modern European standards for referring to a bed are done by its dimensions rather than by a name. For example you would say a mattress 80 cm x 200 cm or .8 m x 2 m rather than saying a small single mattress. Unfortunately the United States does not offer sizes of beds in these widths through the mainstream bedding industry. The large single or the 100 x 200 cm mattress is very close dimensionally to the United States twin extra long mattress. That would be the closest comparable bed or mattress to this size and would be a good fit.

Request For Additional Bed Conversion Information:
If you are an overseas retailer or manufacturer that is considered an authority about your country’s bedding products, I would welcome you to share with us a link customers can follow to your website or a page containing conversion information. We welcome additional information about your standard mattresses as compared to the sizes made in the United States. This information would be helpful for both Americans traveling or living abroad or individuals traveling or planning on visiting the United States.

Shopping Tips For Finding Your Platform Bed:

Choosing the type of platform bed you want.
Are you in the market for a new platform bed? Sometimes when we think of a platform bed what may come to mind is a bed with a solid top surface and maybe drawers or storage units built in beneath it. This is definitely one type of platform bed frame but there are many others to choose from. Here are some suggestions and tips when shopping for a platform bed that may help you find what you’re looking for.

Wood Platform Bed Frames -

These frames are going to be offered in a wide array of styles and designs. These beds will feature a headboard, footboard and rails. The foundation will usually be either a slat support system or a metal frame system with slats or solid panels. The richness and beauty of real wood beds can be seen in the natural wood grain found in these products. Wood platform beds are great for any bedroom and blend in well with any décor.

Metal Platform Bed Frames -

Metal frames will often be modern or contemporary in design. Steel is easier to bend into more unique shapes and you’ll see some traditional styles as well. Metal platform bed frames will consist of a headboard, footboard and rails. Foundations for these beds will be steel crossbars and will often include masonite or solid paneling that fits over the cross supports. Metal platform beds often have a more industrial look to them which will fit in great with a modern bedroom décor.

Storage Platform Bed Frames -

These platform bed frames feature built in storage beneath the primary platform of the bed. This is actually a great use of space since platform beds are by design made for just a mattress. There’s all that extra space beneath the bed that can be used. Why not use it for storage? Drawers are usually featured on one side for twin beds. For full beds, queen beds and king beds you’ll find drawers on both sides of the bed. The platform of the bed may consist of a steel frame with slats or it may also be solid wood panels. Storage platform beds are going to provide you with great space saving features for any room by handling more bedding, clothes and other belongings.

Low Profile Platform Bed Frames -
When you’re looking for a platform bed you may also be interested in a bed that has a lower profile. These are typically beds that will have a platform closer to the ground and the construction of the beds appearance is such that taller footboards or headboards are omitted from the design. You’ll find a low footboard often below the level of the mattress and headboards that are modest in height. The reasons you may want a low profile bed is to create more visual space in your room and a bed with lower features will help.

Finding the size of platform bed that’s right for you:
The frames listed above are the primary sub-categories you’ll find in the way of platform beds. Once you’ve narrowed down the type of frame you’re looking for the next thing to decide on it what size of bed you’re shopping for. Believe it or not there may be some sizes you might not be aware of. Here is a listing of the standard and special sizes available in platform bed frames.

Twin Size Platform Bed- (39 in. x 75 in.)
Probably the most common size for small rooms or rooms where multiple beds are needed. Twin size beds take up the least amount of space and are great for saving space in small rooms. Twin beds are best for one person. Small children and young teenagers are best suited for using twin size platform beds. However twin beds also work great in spare rooms for the occasional guest. Adults may find twin beds typically don’t offer the length they need and there is an alternative bed size for those individuals.

Twin Extra Long Size or XL Twin platform Bed- (39 in. x 80 in.)
Here is the size for adults who need a smaller width bed but something longer. Twin extra long beds take an existing twin size bed and make it long. Now it’s the same length as a queen size bed. These platform beds are great for small spaces but work well for young adults or adults who need an everyday bed and need the extra length. The perfect size to fit that taller guest or for use as an everyday bed.

Full Size Platform bed- (54 in. x 75 in.)
This size of bed is slightly smaller both in length and width than a queen size bed. It can sleep two people but is just slightly wider than a standard twin size bed. Full size beds work well in small rooms for teenagers, young adults or can also serve as a smaller guest bed if company is staying with you. A great space saver while offering a size that almost anyone can use. However, if you think you need more length, but like the width of a full size bed there is another size available. Also referred to as a double size bed..

Full Extra Long Size of XL Full Platform Bed – (54 in. x 80 in.)
Here is an extra long version of a standard full size bed. These extra long full size beds give you the same smaller width of a regular full size bed but provide the added length that a queen bed would offer. These beds should accommodate most guests and still keep the smaller size of a full mattress if your space is limited in the room. Also referred to as a double extra long size bed.

Queen Size Platform Bed- (60 in. x 80 in.)
The number one selling size in North America. Queen size beds are considered the perfect size for adults as it can comfortably sleep two people and considering the mattress measures six feet and eight inches long it will accommodate taller individuals as well. Queen size platform beds are typically purchased for master bedrooms or larger sized bedrooms able to accommodate both the length and width of the mattress. You’ll find most beds offered in this size so you won’t be limited in style or look since most manufacturers recognize that the majority of shoppers are interested in getting a queen size.

King Size or Eastern King Size Platform Bed- (76 in. x 80 in.)
Right behind queen size beds in popularity are king size beds. King size beds offer the maximum width for comfort in standard size beds. They easily sleep two adults and provide ample amounts of sleeping space for everyone. King beds are reserved for master bedrooms or rooms large enough that can accommodate the length and width of these mattresses. Typically used as the primary mattress for adults. Some guest rooms if large enough can also make use of these beds for family or friends staying with you.

California King Size Platform bed – (72 in. x 85 in.)
For those who want a bed that is width wise somewhere between a king and queen bed but want it longer. California king beds are the way to go for a platform bed. They are the longest bed still somewhat considered a standard size and offer length over 7 feet long. Taller individuals will welcome the extra room these beds offer and the greater length they provide. California king actually originated from the waterbed industry and has carried over into conventional bedrooms.

Making a choice for a style of platform bed.

This is really up to the individual. Some things to consider though would include are you looking to go with a more traditional look or do you want a style of bed that is more modern? Traditional platform bed styles will feature anything from a French provincial look to perhaps an early American mission or arts and crafts design. Modern designs will have clean lines featuring more minimal features in keeping with their look.

One thing in choosing a style of platform bed that is often overlooked is the thickness of the mattress you’ll be using. Most average mattresses are around 10″ thick. Of course there are many thicker than this and of course thinner as well. The important thing to figure out is the height of the slats or foundation of the platform bed and then the height of the headboard itself. Figure out the measurement between these two dimensions and you can figure out if your mattress will fit just right or if it’s going to be too tall or too short for the bed. You obviously don’t want to cover up the headboard with your mattress so knowing this will definitely give you more peace of mind when selecting your style of bed.

Shopping for a platform bed can be both fun and rewarding as we want our bedrooms to be comfortable and visually an extension of our tastes and who we are. When you’re ready to start shopping consider several things. Choosing the type of platform bed. Do you want a wood bed or metal bed? Are you in the market for a platform bed that offers built in storage? Some other things to consider as well are what size of bed do you want. Besides standard sizes like twin, full, queen and king you can also get extra long sizes of beds and a larger California king bed size when deciding how large your bed needs to be for your space. Finally, consider the style of the platform bed in relation to the mattress you have or will be purchasing. Some beds offer taller headboards to accommodate most mattresses while some have very low profile headboards. Hope you’ll keep this in mind when selecting your new platform bed. Thanks for shopping with National Furniture Supply.