Updated : 01 Dec 2024
Published : 17 Apr 2024
Guides

Discover the Ottoman Bed – Style, Comfort, and Smart Storage in One

Ottoman beds are becoming increasingly popular as the go-to choice for creating a stylish yet functional bedroom. In today's modern living spaces, where every square foot counts, these beds excel in every regard. An ottoman bed is more than just a sleeping surface; it’s a thoughtfully designed solution that seamlessly combines comfort, storage, and aesthetics, making it a favourite among those who wish to maximise space without compromising on style. Whether you’re a city dweller aiming to make the most of a compact apartment or simply tired of clutter in a larger space, an ottoman bed is a smart, chic investment that offers far more than meets the eye.

Imagine a bed that not only occupies space in your room but also serves a practical purpose. Ottoman beds are equipped with a lift-up mechanism that reveals a generous storage area beneath, perfect for stowing away essentials like bedding, clothing, or books, all neatly concealed from sight. This makes them ideal for anyone who desires a clutter-free bedroom or seeks to utilise every inch of available storage. Unlike traditional beds with cumbersome drawers that require additional space, ottoman beds lift from the base, making them a perfect fit for even the smallest rooms. The storage compartment provides an efficient solution for items you don’t use daily but want to keep close at hand—all without cluttering your living space. When it’s time to tidy up, the lift mechanism gently lowers, leaving you with a sleek, fashionable bed that discreetly hides your belongings.

Ottoman beds are an excellent choice for blending utility with personality. They come in a diverse array of designs, materials, and finishes—ranging from soft upholstered fabrics that create a warm, inviting atmosphere to sophisticated leather options that lend an air of elegance to any room. This fusion of practicality and style makes ottoman beds the ideal centrepiece for anyone in search of a functional yet stylish solution. What may appear to be an ordinary bed at first glance is, in fact, a versatile and hardworking piece of furniture tailored for modern needs.

In this guide, we will explore all the essential factors to consider when selecting the perfect ottoman bed for your space. Are you ready to discover the endless possibilities an ottoman bed can offer? Let’s dive in!

What Makes Ottoman Beds So Special?

If there’s one thing that makes ottoman beds stand out from any other bed type, it’s their unparalleled storage capacity. For many, maximising space is a high priority and this is where ottoman beds come into their own by converting wasteful under-bed space into a storage haven. With the simple lift of the mattress base you open a spacious compartment for storing all those things you don’t need to use every day but want close to hand.

You know — think extra bedding, seasonal clothing, or those large-ish things that you never seem to have space for anywhere else. What’s great about ottoman beds is that they offer this practical storage without sacrificing an inch of either style or comfort. 'The sleek design hides everything behind closed doors to create a clean, tidy look in your bedroom.

Ottoman beds of this nature are ideal for almost any home because of their astute storage solution. For those boomeranging back to compact spaces such as apartments or studio flats, where storage is at a premium, an ottoman bed can be a lifesaver, acting as both a bed and a “wardrobe” of sorts, with ample storage space underneath. It’s like bringing a secret closet into your bedroom without using any floor space. An ottoman bed can be a lifesaver even in bigger homes. For families, bedroom clutterers often become, especially if shared with a significant other or children.

While an ottoman bed also means each person has his or her own storage space, which helps to keep the room neat and cuts the need for extra storage furniture. And since they come in all shapes and sizes, you’re sure to find an ottoman bed to suit every type of room, from compact singles to king-size models that will maximise comfort and storage.

However, ottoman beds are not just popular due to their practicality. First, they’re an effortless kind of chic. From soft, upholstered fabrics that lend the bed a warm and inviting feel to sleek leather finishes that lend a modern edge to the design, you’ll be able to find an ottoman bed in virtually any style. They are also remarkably easy to use, due to sophisticated hydraulic lift systems that ease the opening and closing of the storage compartment almost effortlessly. That makes it very easy to access, which is definitely a big advantage over traditional drawer-based storage beds that take up more space to pull out, and don’t really provide as much space. Last but not least, ottoman beds add an irrefutable hint of luxury to a room. Hidden storage paired with a streamlined design both feel upscale and intentional, so an ottoman bed is a deliberate, stylish investment in your home’s comfort and functionality.

Ultimately, ottoman beds combine style, practicality, and comfort in one sleek offering, making them the perfect choice for any lifestyle in need of a space-savvy bedroom solution. Whether you’ve got a small bedroom and need inventive storage options or you simply want a bed that encourages an organised and tidy home, there’s something for everyone with an ottoman bed. We go through all the essential things you need to consider in selecting the perfect ottoman bed for your requirements, from design through size to materials and even mattress pairing. When you buy an ottoman bed, you’re buying more than just furniture—you’re getting the opportunity to improve your home.

Exploring the Different Types of Ottoman Beds

When it comes to choosing an ottoman bed, understanding the different lift types is essential for finding the perfect match for your space and lifestyle. Ottoman beds come in various designs, each with its own unique lift mechanism that affects how and where the bed opens. Whether you’re looking to maximise a small bedroom, make the most of an awkward layout, or simply find the easiest way to access under-bed storage, there’s an ottoman type to meet your needs. Let’s break down the most popular options and explore which one might be your ideal fit.

End-Opening Ottomans

The end-opening ottoman is often seen as the “classic” in the ottoman bed family—and for good reason. This type of bed opens from the foot, lifting smoothly and easily with the help of hydraulic arms, revealing the full storage compartment beneath.

End-opening ottomans are an especially great choice for rooms where the bed’s foot end is the most accessible, which can often be the case in smaller bedrooms or layouts where the sides of the bed might be close to walls or furniture.

For those who love a bed that’s straightforward and doesn’t take up extra space when opened, the end-opening is a practical, no-fuss option. Since it lifts directly from the end, you don’t need extra room on either side of the bed, making it ideal for tight spaces or those who simply prefer a bed that keeps things simple.

Plus, with the entire storage area easily accessible from one side, it’s easy to grab or store away items without having to shift anything around. The end-opening ottoman truly captures the essence of an ottoman bed’s design: a stylish piece that delivers maximum function in a streamlined, user-friendly way.

Side-Opening Ottomans

Side-opening ottomans are a fantastic option for bedrooms where space around the bed might be limited on one end or where room layouts create challenges. Unlike the end-opening model, side-opening ottomans open from either the left or right side of the bed, lifting up to reveal the storage area below.

This unique opening style makes it possible to place the bed’s foot against a wall or in a corner without losing access to storage, a solution that’s particularly useful in narrower bedrooms, lofts, or rooms with limited floor space.

Side-opening ottomans are also a great choice for anyone who wants easy access to under-bed storage from a standing position beside the bed. Imagine grabbing an extra blanket or tossing in a few throw pillows—all without having to reach over the mattress from the foot.

This type of ottoman bed keeps everything organised and accessible, offering a user-friendly solution that doesn’t compromise on style or storage space. The side-opening ottoman bed is all about flexibility and makes the most of any layout.

Maximising Under-Bed Storage: How Much Can You Fit?

Ottoman beds are designed to maximize space efficiency beneath the mattress, featuring a simple yet expansive storage area that occupies the same footprint as the bed itself. Available in single, double, and king-size options, these beds boast impressive storage capabilities.

With a quick lift of the mattress base, you unveil a spacious compartment ideal for storing bulky items—ranging from duvets and pillows to out-of-season clothing and shoes, as well as small suitcases. If your wardrobe is short on storage, an ottoman bed offers an excellent solution, keeping your belongings neatly stowed away yet easily accessible.

The under-bed storage also allows for effective organization. You can designate specific sections for bed linens, winter clothes, or blankets, simplifying the storage process and enhancing your overall organization. In essence, ottoman beds transform your sleeping area into a “hidden wardrobe,” adding significant value to any bedroom in need of increased storage without sacrificing precious floor space.

How to Organise Your Storage Space

The key to making the most of your ottoman bed’s storage is organisation. Here are a few tips to keep everything in its place, so you can quickly find what you need when you need it:

Use Storage Bags or Boxes: Grouping items in bags or storage bins is an easy way to keep everything organised and protected. Soft storage bags are great for bedding and clothes, while small boxes work well for shoes or accessories.
Label for Organisation: Labelling bins or bags with a simple description—like “winter wear” or “spare linens”—helps you locate things faster, especially if you have a larger ottoman bed with ample storage. You won’t have to rummage around each time you need something.
Rotate Items Seasonally: Consider storing only items you don’t need regularly under the bed, rotating out-of-season items. For example, during warmer months, keep your thick blankets and winter jackets stored here, then switch them with lighter items as the seasons change.

With a bit of planning, your ottoman bed can stay neat and functional, making it effortless to find everything you need without disrupting your setup.

Why Ottoman Beds Are Perfect for Small Bedrooms

In small bedrooms, every piece of furniture counts, and an ottoman bed can be a game-changer when it comes to saving space. Since it combines both a bed and a storage solution, you eliminate the need for additional storage furniture like bulky chest of drawers or extra cabinets.

This not only frees up valuable floor space but also helps your room feel more open and less cluttered. For those who live in apartments or have compact bedrooms, an ottoman bed can provide the storage of a small wardrobe without taking up a single extra inch of space.

Ottoman beds are also ideal for rooms with unique layouts, where traditional storage solutions might not fit comfortably. The streamlined design means you get all the storage without the need for furniture that could crowd the space. Plus, the easy access to under-bed storage allows you to keep everything you need close by without filling up your room with extra furniture, which can be especially beneficial for students, renters, or those working with limited square footage.

In short, ottoman beds are designed with modern living in mind, allowing you to store more without cluttering up your room.

From spacious under-bed compartments to easy organisation tips, these beds make it possible to enjoy a clean, open, and organised bedroom, even if you’re short on storage elsewhere. An ottoman bed can truly transform your space, blending practical storage with elegant style to meet all your needs in one perfect package.

Under-Bed Storage: Making the Most of Every Inch

Ottoman beds are renowned for their exceptional storage capabilities. Unlike traditional beds with storage drawers, which offer limited space and can be cumbersome to access, ottoman beds maximise the entire area beneath the bed. Featuring a lift-up mechanism that elevates both the mattress and frame, these beds reveal a spacious, uninterrupted storage compartment.

This design provides ample room for various items—bulky winter coats, out-of-season clothing, spare bedding, towels, and more. It's akin to having an extra closet right beneath your bed, allowing you to keep essential items readily accessible yet neatly tucked away.

The expansive under-bed storage is particularly advantageous for those facing storage constraints, as it accommodates larger items that would typically clutter a wardrobe.

Moreover, the single, spacious compartment allows for customized organisation tailored to your specific needs. Whether you're storing bedding, pillows, or even suitcases, an ottoman bed offers a practical, innovative, and space-efficient solution for a clutter-free lifestyle.

Organisational Tips for Ottoman Storage

While ottoman beds offer great storage, keeping everything organised will ensure you’re able to easily access what you need without digging through a pile of items. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your ottoman bed’s storage space:

Organise with Storage Bags and Bins: To keep things neat and easy to access, try using soft storage bags or bins. Clear, labelled bags are ideal for bedding or linens, so you can see exactly what's inside at a glance. Smaller bins are great for shoes, accessories, and other compact items, helping you make full use of the storage space and keeping everything in its place.
Switch Out Seasonal Items to Make Space: Refresh your storage with the seasons for better organisation. In warmer months, tuck away winter clothes, thick blankets, and holiday decorations under the bed, freeing up room for the things you need now. Then, as the season changes, swap out those items, keeping essentials for the current season within easy reach.
Make It Easy to Grab What You Need: To avoid unnecessary rummaging, arrange items by how often you use them. Place frequently-used things towards the top so they’re always accessible, while stashing less-needed items below. This setup makes it easy to grab what you need without having to shuffle everything around.

By following these organisational tips, you’ll be able to maximise your ottoman bed’s storage space and find everything you need at a glance.

Freeing Up Floor Space in Small Rooms

One of the biggest challenges in smaller bedrooms is managing floor space. Bulky furniture like chest of drawers and chests of drawers can quickly crowd the room, leaving it feeling cramped and cluttered. Ottoman beds are a perfect solution for smaller rooms because they combine two essential pieces of bedroom furniture—a bed and a storage unit—into one sleek design. By eliminating the need for a separate dresser or extra storage bins, an ottoman bed frees up valuable floor space, helping your room feel more spacious and open.

With an ottoman bed, you don’t have to worry about making room for drawer pull-outs or additional pieces of furniture. Everything you need can be stored directly under your bed, leaving plenty of space for other furniture or simply giving you room to move around freely. This is especially helpful in apartments or smaller homes where square footage is at a premium. And because ottoman beds come in a variety of sizes, they’re versatile enough to fit both compact and larger spaces, adapting to any room without taking over.

In summary, ottoman beds provide a smart storage solution that doesn’t compromise on style. With their full under-bed storage, customisable organisation options, and ability to replace other furniture, ottoman beds are a versatile choice that helps any bedroom stay clean, spacious, and organised. For those who value practicality with a touch of elegance, an ottoman bed is truly the storage solution you didn’t know you needed.

Choosing the Perfect Size for Your Ottoman Bed

Choosing the right size for your ottoman bed is all about finding the perfect balance between comfort, storage, and fit within your space. Whether you’re working with a compact room or looking for a bed that provides extra sleeping space for two, ottoman beds come in sizes to suit every need. This section will walk you through the perks of different ottoman bed sizes, helping you decide on the best fit based on your room, lifestyle, and storage requirements.

Single and Small Double Ottomans: Superb Space-Savers

If you’re outfitting a guest room, a teen’s room, or a cosy bedroom where space is limited, single and small double ottoman beds are excellent choices. These smaller-sized ottomans offer all the same storage benefits as their larger counterparts, with a footprint that’s perfect for more compact spaces. A single ottoman bed, measuring about 3 feet wide, can fit snugly into tight rooms without crowding the area, making it an ideal choice for a child’s or teen’s bedroom, or even for a home office that doubles as a guest room.

A small double ottoman bed, typically around 4 feet wide, is a versatile option for rooms that need to accommodate guests or older children who might need a bit more room to stretch out.

This size is a step up in both comfort and storage while maintaining a relatively small footprint. With these options, you get the bonus of extra under-bed storage without sacrificing floor space, helping smaller rooms stay clutter-free and organised. For anyone looking to make the most of a compact room, a single or small double ottoman bed can be a game-changer.

Double and King Size Ottomans: Roomy and Practical

For larger bedrooms or shared sleeping arrangements, a double or king-size ottoman bed offers an ideal combination of space, comfort, and storage. A double ottoman bed, measuring approximately 4 feet 6 inches in width, is perfect for a single sleeper who enjoys stretching out or for couples who prefer a cozy fit. It enhances comfort without overwhelming the proportions of a medium-sized room.

If you have the space and desire an extra touch of luxury, consider a king-size ottoman bed. At around 5 feet wide, these beds are an excellent addition to most master bedrooms, providing ample sleeping space for both partners and featuring a spacious storage compartment underneath.

The generous dimensions of king-size ottoman beds allow for the convenient storage of bulkier items such as duvets, seasonal clothing, and spare pillows, all while keeping your room clutter-free. These beds are perfect for couples or anyone seeking additional sleeping space, while also offering a handy place to keep reading materials or other essentials close at hand.

Getting the Right Fit for Your Room

An ottoman bed is not just about storage and comfort; it’s also a chance to elevate your bedroom’s style. By carefully choosing the right colours, textures, headboard style, and finishing touches, you can create a bedroom that feels polished, inviting, and entirely your own. From modern minimalism to classic elegance, styling your ottoman bed to harmonise with your room’s décor adds that perfect finishing touch that makes your space look thoughtfully put together.

Styling Your Ottoman Bed to Fit Your Room’s Décor

Finding the perfect size isn’t just about selecting the width; it’s also about making sure the bed will fit comfortably in your room’s layout. Start by measuring the area where you plan to place the bed, ensuring there’s enough room for it to open without hitting walls or other furniture. An ottoman bed with a lift-up mechanism needs sufficient space for smooth access to the storage compartment, so leave a little room around the bed for easy manoeuvring.

If your bedroom is on the smaller side, consider how the bed will interact with the rest of your furniture. For example, if you have nightstands, a single or small double ottoman might fit best, leaving enough space to walk around the bed. In larger rooms, a double or king ottoman can be centred with space for other furniture pieces like chest of drawers or armchairs, adding to the room’s comfort and flow. Remember to factor in room for movement—ideally, you want at least a few feet between the bed and other furniture, allowing for easy access and a more open, breathable room layout.

Choosing the right ottoman bed size can make a big difference in the look and feel of your bedroom. By selecting a size that suits both your storage needs and room dimensions, you can enjoy a bed that’s perfectly suited to your space while maximising under-bed storage. Whether you go for a space-saving single or a luxurious king, there’s an ottoman bed out there that will fit just right.

Choosing the Right Colours and Textures

When selecting colours and textures for your ottoman bed, it's essential to consider the overall theme and colour palette of your bedroom. For a minimalist or contemporary aesthetic, opt for a neutral-toned ottoman bed in shades like grey, beige, or cream. These hues create a seamless, sophisticated look that enhances the airy feel of the room and offers a timeless appeal. For a modern twist, consider deeper shades such as charcoal or navy, which can add a striking contrast and a sense of luxury, especially in spaces with lighter walls.

In more rustic or cosy environments, soft fabric finishes in warm tones—like tan, chocolate, or gentle greens—introduce a comforting textural element. Luxurious velvet or plush upholstery offers warmth and elegance, while linen or cotton textures provide a more relaxed, beachy atmosphere. Ultimately, reflect on the mood you wish to cultivate in your space. Inviting textures and warm colours create a snug sanctuary, while smoother materials and cooler tones harmonize beautifully in modern or minimalist settings.

Headboard Styles to Complete the Look

The headboard is the crown of the bed, and it plays a key role in defining the overall style of your ottoman bed. A tufted headboard, with its buttoned detailing and plush surface, can bring a classic or luxurious vibe, making it a great choice for traditional or glam-inspired bedrooms. Tufted headboards, often found in fabrics like velvet or linen, create a soft and inviting look while adding a layer of visual interest.

For a modern, chic look, a winged headboard can be a striking addition. This style has “wings” on either side, creating a subtle sense of enclosure that makes the bed feel cosy and private. Winged headboards work particularly well with bold fabrics and can give the room a sophisticated edge. If you’re aiming for a minimalist or contemporary look, consider a simple, flat headboard that emphasises clean lines. These headboards often come in neutral fabrics or even wood finishes, offering an understated elegance that blends seamlessly into a room without overwhelming the space.

No matter the style, choose a headboard that complements your room’s aesthetic and enhances the look you’re going for. The right headboard can make your ottoman bed a true focal point in the room, anchoring the space with style.

Bedding and Accessories: Finishing Touches

With the bed’s base and headboard chosen, it’s time to add those all-important finishing touches—throws, pillows, and bedding—that complete the look. Start with quality bedding that feels soft and inviting. Neutral or monochrome bed linens work well in most styles, providing a blank canvas you can dress up with pillows and throws. For a cohesive look, choose bedding in colours that tie into the room’s palette, whether it’s earthy tones for a cosy retreat or crisp whites and greys for a fresh, modern space.

Layer in decorative pillows that complement the bed’s headboard or add a pop of colour or texture. A few carefully chosen pillows can introduce new textures, like velvet, faux fur, or chunky knits, that add depth and warmth. Finally, add a throw blanket at the foot of the bed.

Choose a throw in a contrasting colour or material to bring an extra layer of cosiness and visual interest. For example, a chunky knit throw in winter or a light, woven blanket in summer can be both functional and stylish, adding the finishing touch to your ottoman bed’s setup.

Ready to Transform Your Bedroom with an Ottoman Bed?

Ottoman beds are a perfect blend of style, storage, and comfort, offering a unique solution for those looking to make the most of their bedroom space. Whether you need more storage for seasonal items, want to keep your room clutter-free, or simply love the idea of a bed that combines functionality with elegance, an ottoman bed delivers on all fronts. These beds turn an ordinary bedroom into an organised, stylish retreat, giving you more than just a place to sleep—they give you a smart way to manage your space.

Key Takeaways: Why Ottoman Beds Are Worth It

Ottoman beds bring incredible value to any bedroom, and here’s why they’re a choice worth considering:

Practical Storage: With their lift-up design, ottoman beds provide ample under-bed storage, ideal for keeping bulky items, off-season clothing, or spare linens neatly out of sight. They help maximise space without the need for extra furniture.
Stylish Design Options: Available in various colours, materials, and headboard styles, ottoman beds suit a wide range of décor preferences. From modern and minimalist to classic and luxurious, there’s an ottoman bed style to enhance any bedroom aesthetic.
Ideal for Any Room Size: Ottoman beds come in sizes from singles to kings, making them suitable for small guest rooms, cosy teen bedrooms, or spacious master suites. Their versatile storage also means they work exceptionally well in rooms where space is limited.

With a combination of practicality, style, and customization options, ottoman beds offer a long-term solution for those who value a clean, stylish, and functional bedroom environment.

Finding the Ottoman Bed That’s Just Right for You

As you contemplate how an ottoman bed may fit in your bedroom, it is vital to evaluate what works for you. If storage is important to you, end-opening and side-opening options are equally great for keeping your room clutter-free with easy access to your items. In smaller rooms, a single or small double ottoman bed is the best of both worlds, providing storage without taking over the space. And if you’re back in the office and looking to make a statement, consider how the fabric and headboard style can elevate the look of the room.”

A little time spent considering these specifics will bring you a bed that meets your requirements and serves your style fabulously. If you want to discover the ideal ottoman bed for your room, head to Next Divan to explore a range that perfectly balances fashion and functionality.