Whether for you or your little one, maximising bedroom space is a must in smaller homes. And with houses in the UK being more compact than ever, making the most of every inch is a must. So, that’s why we’re here - to help you choose the best beds for small rooms, and make your life a little easier.
From cabin beds and triple sleepers, to bookcase beds and ottoman storage, we’ve compiled a short - but thorough - list of how you can optimise every corner of your home. Whether it’s a long-term investment or a needed plan B, we’re sure we can help you find a space-saving bed! Because, here at Happy Beds, we believe happy is a place.
Which bed types are best for space-conscious homes?
Whilst we’re not here to recommend specific bed retailers - although we did hear Happy Beds are one of the best - we are here to help you choose the best beds for small spaces. So, after searching high and low for some inspo, here are our recommendations for space-saving beds for every bedroom type:
The best beds for small bedrooms:
1. Small beds for a master bedroom
When you think of the master bedroom, you may dream of a spacious super-king with a plush tall headboard. However, many homes in the UK simply don’t have the dimensions for this type of bed - but that doesn’t mean they have to scrimp on style!
There are plenty of options when it comes to space-saving beds for small master bedrooms. First of all, ask yourself if you need the biggest bed available. If you and your partner like to snuggle up, a double bed will be just as comfortable without taking up too much of your available space.
If you don’t want to compromise on the size of your sleeping space, consider choosing a slimmer bed frame. Metal and wooden bed frames give the appearance of greater floor space. You can still have all the grandeur you’re after, especially if you opt for a decorative Parisian-inspired metal bed frame.
Another great option is a divan bed. As the mattress sits directly atop the bed base, there’s no chunky frame taking up more of your floor space than you’d like.
And if that’s still not enough, why not incorporate some storage features into your bed frame? Whether it be drawers, shelves, or an ottoman, there are plenty of ways to maximise space and minimise clutter with the right bed! Storage beds are a great alternative for space-conscious homes looking for a practical yet stylish solution.
Storing items such as spare bedding, unruly clothing, and bulky throws can seem a real pain, but with the right storage features, it’s easier than ever! Not only will a storage bed help you clear the clutter, but it also acts as the ideal alternative to drawers, units, and other furniture items that may be making a small room feel cramped.
2. Small beds for a kids bedroom
Despite having arguably the most belongings in any household, kids' bedrooms are usually some of the smallest in a house. Thankfully, there are plenty of options when it comes to children’s beds that can make the most of any small space.
A multi-purpose bed is an ideal choice for little ones with small sleep spaces. Whether you’re buying for one, two, or three, there are plenty of fun and exciting options to make kids’ bedrooms less chaotic. Frames that include desks, wardrobes, bookcases, or drawers are perfect for minimising clutter whilst keeping your little ones happy.
This, in turn, frees up space elsewhere for other furniture - or you may even want to leave most floor space completely free for plenty of fun and games! Integrated trundles, bunk beds, and triple sleepers are also great options for siblings and sleepovers, as they provide an extra bed without needing to sacrifice space elsewhere.
For younger children, you may be able to save some space by opting for a small single bed. Slightly narrower than a single bed frame, these beds still offer plenty of sleep space for your little one.
Image credits: @the_dolls_house_interiors
3. Small beds for guest rooms
If you find you often host guests too - or maybe a permanent fixture is simply not an option - then a temporary fix may be the best choice. For spare or guest rooms, sofa beds or day beds are often a good fit, as they can be neatly tucked into a corner when not in use.
Or, to take it one step further, folding frames can be hidden away completely and brought out when needed. We recommend choosing a multi-functional frame that serves you whatever the occasion.
Outside of temporary beds, other permanent options for smaller guest rooms include single, small double and double beds. Small double beds are a popular choice. Providing the comfort and style of a standard double, but with the flexibility of a smaller bed frame, they are ideal for guest bedrooms that are slightly on the smaller side.
Often referred to as three-quarter beds, they measure 4’ by 6’3”, ensuring there’s still plenty of space for your guests to stretch out during the night whilst leaving a little floor space free. If you're curious about this size of the bed, check out our small double bed guide to see why they make one of the best beds for small rooms.
4. Small beds for box rooms
As you’ve probably guessed, smaller bedrooms are most suited to narrow bed frames - and that’s especially true for box room beds. Not only do they avoid taking up too much floor space, but a slim structure will also make a bedroom look bigger, helping you to make the most of your space.
So, why not try a divan bed? With their simple structure, they’re ideal for narrow rooms - and if you choose one without a headboard, it makes the perfect box room bed. Even better, when it gets to winter, you can invest in a temporary headboard to help keep the heat in!
As you’ve probably guessed, smaller bedrooms are most suited to narrow bed frames - and that’s especially true for box room beds. Not only do they avoid taking up too much floor space, but a slim structure will also make a bedroom look bigger, helping you to make the most of your space.
So, why not try a divan bed? With their simple structure, they’re ideal for narrow rooms - and if you choose one without a headboard, it makes the perfect box room bed. Even better, when it gets to winter, you can invest in a temporary headboard to help keep the heat in!
Features to look for in a bed for a small bedroom
To help make the most of your small bedroom, look for a bed with the following features:
- Slim frame - don’t let a chunky bed frame take up more of your room than it needs to. A slim bed metal or wooden bed frame will help your space feel larger.
- Built-in storage - from drawers to ottoman storage, these clever all-in-one beds can help you clear away the clutter and reduces the need for standalone furniture in your room.
- Smaller size - bigger isn’t always better. Choose the right size bed for the room you have and the number of people who will be sleeping in it.
- Elevated beds - if you can’t go out, go up! A bunk bed or loft bed is a great choice for children’s rooms, adding an additional place to sleep without taking up any more room.
Features to avoid when looking for a bed for a small bedroom
- Sleigh beds - because of their scrolled headboards, sleigh beds don’t sit flush against the wall. Pushing your bed frame further into your room, it could make opening wardrobe doors and drawers more difficult.
- High headboards and statement footboards - whilst they’re perfect for adding a little luxury to grand bedrooms, overpowering headboards and footboards can make it harder to move around, detract from the bed itself, and even, in some cases, prevent natural light from entering the room.
- Big beds - it’s a no-brainer but don’t try and squeeze the biggest bed possible into your room if it’s going to make moving around more difficult.
Whether you’re revamping your room or your little one’s, there are plenty of ways to save space whilst still making sure your house feels like home. From divan beds to ottomans, finding the perfect fit is (hopefully) easier than you ever thought!
