As people, we can be hard to please at times. We want jobs that make us tons of money yet still provide minimal or non-existent stress; or perhaps the car that can go from 0 to 60 in 2.3 seconds but is still thrifty on the gas. It is no different with bedroom furniture. Today's modern society has us craving for a stylish bed that also provides optimal cushioning, support, and comfort. Enter the Platform Bed.
But it would be unfair to go into detail as to why they've become so popular over the years without going over some of its basic history, influences, and the different types.
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A Brief History:
The Platform bed isn't necessarily a new invention. Rather, it is more of an evolutionary concept as the first ones could be better defined as Loft beds. These beds were raised on four poles, so as to use the bottom area as a workstation or extra living space. However, as times and trends moved on, the beds became lower and lower. They eventually got to the point where it is today, very close to the ground, giving birth to the modern day platform bed.
What makes them different from other beds is the lack of a necessary box spring and slats for support. Although some may still use a box spring, it is more common to see them without it. Also, instead of wooden or metal slats to support the bed, most use a straight flat base to support the mattress. Headboards and Footboards are also sparingly used; however some still may incorporate them.
Influences:
Although there are many different styles, the most noticeable influence that platform beds were derived from are traditional Japanese beds. Traditionally, Japanese beds are very close to the ground and very flat. Platform beds take on similar traits. For example, many are indeed lower to the ground than traditional beds. This provides a sense of extra space in your bedroom. Also, many mattresses that accompany the bed are firmer than standard mattresses. This is used to promote a straighter posture as you sleep. Some even incorporate Japanese Tatami Mats, which are usually made of straw and are used for keeping people and objects separated from the bed frame.
Today, many contemporary styles exist, made to suit western-style living, utilizing pillow-top mattresses, and head or foot boards, and high elevation.
Different Types:
Modern:
Modern Platform Beds use very sleek and sexy lines to create a clean and fresh feeling for your bedroom. Most are made of metal, however there are some made of wood. Some may include casters for added mobility and convenience if you're ever in need of moving your bed from one room to the next. Modern styles usually use bold colors and finishes, such as black, white, or red.
Accent Platform Beds:
These beds are usually made of wood and are very delicately designed with accents to create a classic feel. Scroll work and motifs are commonly used to decorate accent beds. Many are coated with classic finishes such as cherry or oak.
Contemporary:
Contemporary Platform Beds take on similar traits of both accent and modern beds, giving you the best of both worlds. They commonly use clean lines such as those found in modern styles however will have small accents for additional charm. Contemporary styles utilize a large range of finishes from white to black to brown.
Canopy:
Although more of a rarer form, some furniture manufacturers will produce Canopy Platform Beds. These will have four high posts in each corner which you can use to cover with drapes to add more privacy.
With a strong history, influential designs, and many styles to choose from, you now know why these beds have become so popular in today's society. So remember, the next time you see a bed with Style and Comfort - It must be a Platform Bed.