Bed frame decisions
Divan beds are usually made with a timber frame covered in fabric and set on castors or wooden legs. However, there is a bit of variety involved when you are choosing a bed frame.
Mostly, these are aesthetic decisions. Whether you go for wood or metal, a quality bed frame will be durable and resilient, but they can fit into very different design themes.
Even within each material, there are a lot of options—for example, a sleek, minimalist wood frame with natural tones and clean lines is ideal for a Nordic-inspired space, while dark varnish and carved headboard details bring a more traditional, opulent feel.
A metal frame, meanwhile, is ideal for an industrial look, or turn to polished gold and silver hues to bring a touch of glamour to your space.
Fabric bed choices
Then there’s fabric. Although the bed will still be made of wood or metal, it can be padded and upholstered in fabric for a different, softer feel. A tufted fabric headboard is a classic style that dates back to Victorian England, perfect for a traditional look, but with a little tweaking, it can have a much more contemporary feel.
Go for a flat finish rather than quilting, or use a surprising fabric choice to make a bold bedroom statement. A padded headboard is also a comfy choice if you’re the type who likes to relax in bed to read or watch TV before you sleep or on a rainy afternoon.
How to accurately measure for your new bed
Measuring for a bed is usually simpler than measuring for a sofa because beds don’t come in a variety of shapes the way sofas do (although there might be an L-shaped bed out there; we’ve never seen it!).
And if you’re buying a bed to replace one that you already own, you already know what size you need, so it couldn’t be easier. However, if you are starting fresh or upgrading from a Single to a Super King, we have a few tips to make sure that your bed looks great in your room:
Follow the 1/3 rule: This is a rule that interior designers often use for bedroom spaces that says your bed should take up one-third of your room, your other furniture one-third, and your walking space the rest. It’s not hard and fast, but your room will look more balanced, and you’ll have enough space.
Think about positioning: Most people prefer the head of their bed to be against the wall, with the bed jutting out into the centre of the room. However, to save space, you might find it makes more sense to have the long side of the bed against the wall.
Don’t forget height: Measuring a bed is easy; it’s just a rectangle. But if you are choosing a bed with a head and/or footboard, make sure you keep in mind items it could bump up against, like artwork on the walls or hanging ceiling lights.
Consider installation: Some beds require full assembly, while others arrive at your home nearly complete. An already-assembled bed is convenient, but one that needs assembly can make it easier to bring through doorways and around corners to reach your bedroom.
How to choose the right bed style and design
What if you’re set on a divan bed but want the style of a traditional frame? Never fear—you can get an unintegrated headboard to bring that classic look to your bedroom.
Similarly, if your chosen bed shape doesn’t offer underbed storage but you really need somewhere to stash your stuff, many ranges offer coordinating bed benches or blanket boxes to pair with your new bed.
Bedrooms have some of the most versatile options for home furnishings, so you’re sure to find exactly what you need to suit your style.
If you’re looking for a full bedroom refresh, consider buying a bed that’s part of a range so you can be sure to find dressers, bedside tables, and more to match your interior decorating vision.
Otherwise, play with accessorising! New sheet sets, duvets, or pillows don’t make as much of a difference as a new bed or mattress, but why not take the opportunity to make your bedroom the cosiest place it could be?
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing the perfect place to rest your head, there's a lot to consider. From materials to sizes, styles, and design, every aspect plays a part in ensuring a restful night. Remember, it's not just about the mattress but the entire experience of buying a bed. Whether you're going for a wooden, fabric, or metal bed, or even an adjustable or sofa bed, make sure when you are buying a bed it fits your space, style, and comfort needs. Happy bed shopping!
Ready to get started in buying your perfect bed? Take a look at our best beds here. Shopping for a full bedroom revamp? Our Bedroom Furniture Buying Guide has all the insights you need.
