Platform bed

Platform beds are beds whose base consists of a raised, flat, hard, horizontal surface meant to support a mattress. They are great for people who want a simple look to their bedroom, or who live in tight spaces or small bedrooms. Platform beds provide firm cushioning and with the support of slats, they eliminate the need for a box spring or a mattress foundation; they give adequate support for a mattress by itself. They are characterized by their low-profile sleeping surface, simple, soft lines and sleek design. With a wide variety of sizes and styles available, they quickly gained popularity in recent years across North America.

History

As far back as the Neolithic period, man has been sleeping on a bed, or at least, has had a designated area for sleeping. There are all types of bed styles that seem to go in and out of style. When the style is revived, it is usually reborn to fit contemporary tastes and needs to suit the time. Surely, at one point in time, somebody decided to raise the sleeping area off of the ground to prevent stray animals or insects from finding a warm body to curl up next to. Much later, it was the Egyptians that are credited with doing just this, thus creating the concept of "bed" as we know it.

Many bed types linger in the background, but never really go away. Bunk beds seem to suit children's rooms and dormitory style living. The space saving ability makes them a great choice for tight living quarters. Daybeds can be used as a dual piece of furniture. It can be used as a seat by day and a bed by night. Futons also incorporate the daytime sitting space with a nighttime sleeping area.

Since then, styles have evolved to suit the times. Platform beds are not a new invention, but rather, a new twist on an old concept. The first platform beds were better defined as loft beds. The sleeping area was raised on four poles so that there would be space for everyday living activities below. As living became more luxurious, the beds became shorter. Presently, the Platform bed has seen a popularity revival.

The styles that are currently available utilize two main mediums, wood and metal. Sometimes the designer incorporates them and includes metal accents or leather in the bed design. The Platform bed may or may not encompass a footboard. The absence of the footboard contributes to the open-airiness that is meant to open a smaller bedroom. However, some people prefer the styles that include the footboard to further define their sleeping space.

Another space defining style is the Platform bed with a canopy. Curtains may be hung around the perimeter of the bed to make the bed more private. If curtains are not desirable, fabric may be loosely draped to create a dreamy feel to the room. Organza or a light weave of cotton are great choices. The immortal Mission style furniture will never wane. Once exclusive to the dining room, Mission style is now integrated into the bedroom scenery.

Many different colors are also available. Dark finishes are sharp and defining, surely making the Platform bed the focus of the bedroom. White, or lighter finishes make a clean and crisp statement.

The versatility of a platform bed is priceless. Platform beds may or may not be used with a box spring. The wide variety in mattress choices also allows you to customize not only the look of your bed, but the comfort as well. A low profile Platform bed combined with a pillowtop mattress will eliminate the need for a boxspring, without sacrificing the height.

Contemporary platform beds

Contemporary usually features with clean lines, neutral elements and bold color characterize. The contemporary style is known for its underlying simplicity of line, shape, form, and attention to practical functions in contrast to the dramatic and lavish appearances of traditional bedroom furniture styles.

Among the more commonly found characteristics of contemporary platform beds are sleek, straight lines; gently swooping curves; solid, easily discernible finishes and colors; simple, tasteful flourishes and other artistic flairs; the use of high-tech foam as a mattress material; and other characteristics.