17 Apr 2024
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Discover the Ottoman Bed – Style, Comfort, and Smart Storage in One

When it comes to creating a bedroom that’s both stylish and practical, ottoman beds are stealing the show. For modern living, where every square foot matters, these beds deliver on all fronts. Think of the ottoman bed as more than a place to rest; it’s an all-in-one solution that effortlessly combines comfort, storage, and sleek design, making it a favourite among those looking to make the most of their space without compromising on style. Whether you're a city dweller working with a compact apartment or someone simply tired of clutter in a larger space, the ottoman bed is a smart, stylish choice that offers so much more than meets the eye.

Imagine a bed that doesn’t just sit in the room but actually works for you. Ottoman beds come equipped with a lift-up mechanism that reveals a spacious under-bed storage area, keeping all your essentials—like bedding, clothing, or even books—tucked neatly out of sight. This makes them a dream for anyone who values a clutter-free bedroom or wants to maximise every inch of available storage space. Unlike traditional storage beds with drawers that need room to pull out, the ottoman bed lifts up from the base, making it ideal even in the tightest spaces. The storage area opens seamlessly, allowing you to stash away items you don’t need every day but want close by, all without crowding the room. And when it’s time to close it up, the lift mechanism gently lowers back down, leaving you with a stylish, streamlined bed that hides all your essentials.

The appeal of ottoman beds lies in their perfect blend of form and function. These beds come in an array of designs, materials, and finishes, from soft upholstered fabric options that lend a cosy, inviting vibe to sleek leather finishes that add a touch of sophistication to any room. This blend of functionality and design makes ottoman beds an excellent choice for anyone who wants a stylish focal point that doesn’t skimp on practicality. While it might look like an ordinary bed at first glance, an ottoman bed is a hard-working, multi-functional piece of furniture that’s built for modern needs.

In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know to choose the perfect ottoman bed. Ready to discover the possibilities with an ottoman bed? Let’s dive in!

What Makes Ottoman Beds So Special?

If there’s one thing that sets ottoman beds apart from any other bed type, it’s their unmatched storage capacity. In a world where maximising space is a priority for so many, ottoman beds rise to the occasion by transforming what would otherwise be wasted under-bed space into a storage haven. With just a simple lift of the mattress base, you unlock a roomy compartment perfect for storing all those items that you don’t need daily but want close at hand.

Think extra bedding, seasonal clothes, or those bulky items that never seem to fit anywhere else. What’s remarkable about ottoman beds is that they provide this functional storage without compromising an inch on style or comfort. The sleek design conceals everything out of sight, giving your bedroom an effortlessly clean, organised look.

This clever storage solution makes ottoman beds ideal for virtually any home. For those in compact spaces, like apartments or studio flats, where storage is at a premium, an ottoman bed can be a lifesaver, doubling as both a bed and a “wardrobe” of sorts. It’s like adding a hidden wardrobe to your bedroom without sacrificing floor space. Even in larger homes, an ottoman bed can make a world of difference. Families often find that bedrooms quickly become cluttered, especially when shared with a partner or kids.

An ottoman bed allows each person to have dedicated storage space, helping keep the room neat and reducing the need for extra storage furniture. And because they come in a variety of sizes, you can find an ottoman bed that fits every type of room, from compact singles to king-size models that maximise comfort and storage.

But beyond its practical side, there are several other reasons why ottoman beds have become such a popular choice. First, they’re effortlessly stylish. Whether you’re drawn to soft, upholstered fabrics that give the bed a warm and inviting feel or sleek leather finishes that add a modern edge, ottoman beds come in styles that suit any décor. They are also incredibly easy to use, thanks to advanced hydraulic lift mechanisms that make opening and closing the storage compartment smooth and almost effortless. This ease of access is a huge bonus, especially compared to traditional drawer-based storage beds, which require more space to pull out and don’t offer nearly as much room. Finally, there’s an undeniable touch of luxury that ottoman beds bring to a space. The combination of hidden storage and a streamlined design feels upscale and intentional, making an ottoman bed a thoughtful, stylish investment in your home’s comfort and functionality.

In essence, ottoman beds are a unique blend of style, practicality, and comfort, providing an elegant solution for anyone looking to make the most of their bedroom space. Whether you’re working with a small bedroom that needs creative storage solutions or simply want a bed that helps keep your home organised and clutter-free, an ottoman bed offers something for everyone. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the right ottoman bed for your needs, with tips on design, size, materials, and even mattress pairing. With an ottoman bed, you’re not just buying furniture—you’re enhancing 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.

Storage That Works for You

One of the standout features of an ottoman bed is its impressive under-bed storage, turning what would typically be wasted space into a hidden treasure trove. Unlike traditional storage beds with drawers, ottoman beds give you the entire under-bed area as one large compartment, providing unparalleled storage capacity. This makes it incredibly easy to keep your bedroom free from clutter, especially if you're someone who values a tidy, organised space but doesn’t have room for extra storage furniture. Let’s explore exactly how much you can store, tips on keeping things organised, and why ottoman beds are a dream for small spaces.

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

Ottoman beds are designed to maximise every inch of space below the mattress, offering a generous storage area that’s as spacious as the bed itself. Whether you opt for a single, double, or king-size ottoman bed, the storage capacity is impressive.

With a quick lift of the mattress base, you gain access to a full compartment where you can neatly store bulky items, from duvets and pillows to out-of-season clothing, shoes, and even small suitcases. For those who have limited wardrobe space, an ottoman bed is a smart way to keep larger items out of sight but easily accessible.

This under-bed storage also allows you to organise items by category. You might reserve one section for bed linens and another for winter clothes or blankets, keeping everything orderly and simplifying your storage routine. Essentially, ottoman beds turn your bed into a “hidden wardrobe,” adding tremendous value to any bedroom that needs more storage without taking up extra 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.

Why Ottoman Beds Are the Storage Solution You Didn’t Know You Needed

If you've ever wished for more space in your bedroom without sacrificing style or comfort, an ottoman bed might be the hidden gem you’ve been looking for. Ottoman beds have become a go-to choice for those looking to make the most of their bedroom, combining a sleek design with full under-bed storage to offer a unique solution for keeping everything you need close by without overcrowding the space. Let’s dive into how ottoman beds maximise storage, keep things organised, and free up essential floor space, especially in smaller rooms.

Under-Bed Storage: Making the Most of Every Inch

The storage capability of an ottoman bed is impressive. Unlike beds with storage drawers, which only offer limited space and can often be tricky to access, ottoman beds make use of the entire under-bed area. With a lift-up mechanism that raises the mattress and frame, these beds open up to reveal a generous, uninterrupted compartment.

This layout gives you ample room to store all kinds of items—from bulky winter coats and off-season clothing to spare bedding and towels. It’s like gaining a whole extra wardrobe under your bed, keeping your essentials within easy reach but out of sight.

This full under-bed storage is especially handy for those with limited wardrobe space, as it can hold large, bulky items that often clutter up a wardrobe.

And because the storage compartment is one large area instead of multiple drawers, you can organise it to suit your exact needs. Whether you’re storing bedding, pillows, or even suitcases, an ottoman bed provides a clutter-free solution that’s both practical and space-saving.

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: 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

When it comes to larger bedrooms, or if you’re sharing the bed, double and king size ottoman beds offer the ultimate combination of space, comfort, and storage. A double ottoman bed provides ample room for a single sleeper who loves to sprawl out or for couples who prefer a cosier fit. With dimensions around 4 feet 6 inches in width, a double ottoman bed brings added comfort without overwhelming medium-sized rooms.

For maximum space and luxury, a king size ottoman bed is the way to go. Measuring around 5 feet wide, king-size ottomans are a fantastic choice for master bedrooms, offering both partners plenty of room to sleep comfortably while also providing an expansive storage compartment underneath.

The roomy dimensions make it easy to store larger items like duvets, seasonal clothing, and even extra pillows without cluttering the room. These beds are perfect for couples or anyone who wants a bit more space while sleeping, all while keeping essential storage 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 it comes to selecting colours and textures for your ottoman bed, consider the overall theme and colour palette of your bedroom. If your room leans toward a minimalist or contemporary look, a neutral-coloured ottoman bed—such as shades of grey, beige, or cream—will create a seamless, sophisticated aesthetic. These lighter shades not only make the room feel airy and open but also provide a timeless look that won’t go out of style. For a more modern edge, consider charcoal or deep navy, which can add contrast and richness, especially in spaces with light-coloured walls.

If your room has a cosy or rustic feel, soft fabric finishes in warmer tones—like tan, chocolate, or even soft greens—can bring an inviting, textured element to the space. Velvet or plush upholstery adds a touch of luxury and warmth, while linen or cotton textures offer a more casual, laid-back vibe. Ultimately, consider how you want your room to feel. Plush textures and warm colours create a cosy retreat, while sleeker materials and cooler colours work well in modern or minimalist spaces.

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 think about adding an ottoman bed to your bedroom, it’s important to consider what works best for you. If storage is high on your list, both end-opening and side-opening options are fantastic for keeping your space tidy while giving you easy access to your belongings. For those with smaller rooms, a single or small double ottoman bed strikes the perfect balance between providing storage and not taking up too much space. And if you want to make a statement, think about how the fabric and headboard style can really elevate the look of your room.

Taking a little time to reflect on these details will lead you to a bed that fits your needs and complements your style perfectly. So, if you’re ready to find the right ottoman bed for your space, head over to Next Divan and discover a selection that beautifully combines style and practicality.