Inspiration01Platform bed
A low, solid base that holds the mattress without a box spring. Clean and modern.
Bed varieties: 13 types of beds explained
A simple guide to bed names, styles and models, and which one suits your room.
InspirationWith so many bed varieties available, choosing one can be confusing. Each style has a different purpose: some save space, some add storage and some make a statement. Knowing the different types of beds and their names makes it easier to tell a furniture maker or designer exactly what you want.
Here are 13 common types of beds, with notes on where each one works best.
Inspiration02Hydraulic storage bed
The mattress platform lifts on gas pistons to reveal full-size storage below. Very popular in Indian homes.
03Box bed
A bed with fixed storage boxes under lift-up panels. Cheaper than hydraulic but heavier to open.
04Drawer bed
Pull-out drawers along the sides or foot for daily-use items.
05Upholstered bed
Headboard and frame wrapped in fabric or leatherette. Soft and comfortable to lean against.
06Four-poster bed
Four tall posts at the corners, sometimes with a canopy. Dramatic and classic.
07Canopy bed
A frame above the bed draped with fabric. Romantic and cosy.
08Sleigh bed
Curved head and footboards like a sleigh. Traditional and elegant.
09Bunk bed
Two beds stacked vertically. Saves space in kids' and guest rooms.
10Loft bed
A raised bed with open space below for a desk, sofa or storage.
11Trundle bed
A second bed that slides out from under the main bed. Great for sleepovers.
12Sofa cum bed
A sofa that unfolds into a bed. Ideal for living rooms that host guests.
13Murphy (wall) bed
A bed that folds up into a wall cabinet. The ultimate space-saver for studios and small guest rooms.
Not sure which type of bed fits your room? Our interior designers in Kolkata can suggest the right one and build it to size.
How to choose the best bed design
- Small room? Murphy bed, loft bed or a platform bed without a footboard.
- Need storage? Hydraulic or drawer beds.
- Kids sharing a room? Bunk or trundle beds.
- Guest room or study? Sofa cum bed or daybed.
- Statement master bedroom? Upholstered, four-poster or canopy beds.
Check standard sizes too: single (36" × 78"), three-quarter or double (48" × 78"), queen (60" × 78") and king (72" × 78").
Materials and rough cost factors
- Material: ply with laminate, veneer, solid wood, metal or upholstered.
- Mechanism: hydraulic lifts, Murphy fittings and sofa-bed mechanisms add cost.
- Size: bigger beds use more material.
- Custom or ready-made: custom beds fit perfectly but cost more.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
What are the different types of beds?
Common types include platform, hydraulic storage, box, drawer, upholstered, four-poster, canopy, sleigh, bunk, loft, trundle, sofa cum bed and Murphy beds.
Which bed type gives the most storage?
A hydraulic storage bed, which opens up the entire space under the mattress.
Which bed is best for a small room?
A Murphy bed, loft bed or platform bed without a footboard.
What is the difference between a queen and king bed?
A queen is about 60 inches wide and a king about 72 inches. Both are usually 78 inches long in India.
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