Top Menu

design ideas
buying-bed

Buying Guide for Beds

Shopping Guides

Our guide to choosing a bed to maximise the valuable space in your small bedroom

To maintain a happy and healthy well-being, creating the ideal oasis is a priority  to fulfil our full potential. With a combination of creative storage solutions, appropriate furniture and styling tricks it is possible to create the ideal haven in your bedroom without making major sacrifices.

There are a variety of different bed styles to cater to small spaces: from beds with  in-built storage, bed frames which allow under-bed storage or beds which can be completely stored away to allow multi-functional use of the space.

Before purchasing a particular style of bed, it is imperative to identify whether it is for everyday use in a master bedroom, or for a spare room which can serve as both a guest room or a home office.

Another important factor to keep in mind is the proportion of the bed in relation to the dimensions of the room.

See below typical UK bed sizes. It is worth noting that European and USA bed sizes differ from UK sizes, so it is important to be aware of the actual measurements of the bed.

typical UK bed sizes

name imperial size metric size
small single 2’6″ x 6’3″ 75 x 190cm
single 3′ x 6’3″ 90 x 190cm
small double 4′ x 6’3″ 120 x 190cm
double 4’6″ x 6’3″ 135 x 190cm
king 5′ x 6’6″ 150 x 200cm
super king 6′ x 6’6″ 180 x 200cm

N.B. Metric and imperial sizes are not exact equivalents

There are plenty of options to maximise the available space.

bedsteads

Bedsteads are offered in a variety of styles with different heights, slat choice and upholstered headboard finish. Storage solutions for a bedstead include under bed storage boxes, bags or drawers which can conveniently slide underneath the bed to utilise the available space. Bedsteads are beneficial for more of an everyday bed if comfort and support is the primary factor.

storage beds

ottoman beds

Ottoman beds have a mattress base which utilises the inside of the bed frame to provide sleek and discreet storage. With the power of hydraulics, storage can be revealed by lifting up the mattress base to store possessions underneath. Great for extra bedding, luggage/travel bags or any other awkward or bulky items.

Ottoman beds are available with two different modes of accessing the storage: either side opening or front opening to suit the positioning of the bed within the room.

multi-functional beds

With the advance of technological innovation, designers have incorporated lots of solutions into beds to maximise space, from TV storage to bedside tables and even sound systems. These bed frames can include light fittings and USB ports in order to charge and use any electrical item.

Smart Bed with Multi-Media

Bookcase Beds

It is possible to purchase a bedframe with a functional bookcase or shelves to provide maximum storage and aesthetic.

Sofa Beds

Sofa Beds are a great option if you enjoy having guests come to stay but are limited by space. Sofa Beds come in different shapes and styles. From two-seater fold out beds to an L-shape (which equates to the size of a double bed) There is a vast array of styles to suit your budget and your needs.

Loft Beds

Loft beds are ideal when there is not much floor space but where there is more ceiling height/space. If the bed is elevated onto a platform, it allows for maximising the space in lots of different ways; whether to store things or more commonly provide a wardrobe solution or workspace.

Take a look at our beds section to shop for space maximising beds.

This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products.

Share this pageShare on FacebookShare on Google+Tweet about this on TwitterPin on PinterestShare on LinkedInEmail this to someonePrint this page

find more inspiration

X

maximise your small space with our space saving tips!

*By entering your email address you are agreeing to our Terms of Service, Privacy Policy and to receive emails from My Small Space.

all prices accurate at time of publication but are subject to change

MySmallSpace UK
mysmallspaceuk in London, UK on Houzz
Password Reset
Please enter your e-mail address. You will receive a new password via e-mail.