When moving into a new house, the bedroom is one of the very first places people look to furnish. Of course, after the tough job of moving in, bringing in tons of boxes and setting things up, you need a good night’s sleep to recover and recharge yourself for another day of unboxing and organising. While you may make do with a sleeping bag in the first few days, you’re likely to start needing a proper bed sometime soon.
But finding the right bedroom furniture in Melbourne that suits your needs isn’t always so easy. For those with certain mobility issues, or back problems, limited space or just those who don’t want to settle for just anything, choosing between the various styles, types and sizes can be tough. For example, a four-poster bed with side tables might look great in the magazine you’re perusing, but may not be the right choice for a small apartment. On the other hand, simply putting a single bed in a large room with no other furniture in it could make the room look empty and devoid of life. Before we move on to the other furniture commonly found in a bedroom, let’s take a look at the many types of beds available so you can make an informed choice.
Types of beds:
Platform beds:
A very popular type of bed (and for good reason), platform beds provide good air circulation, are highly stable and usually have a sleek, modern aesthetic that appeals to many. Consisting of either a slotted or solid sturdy base where the mattress is placed, it usually does not use a box spring for support. A platform bed also functions as a bed frame. They are also closer to the ground and may lift your bed about 12 to 18 inches above the ground. For people of older age or those with mobility issues, this type of bed may be too low and make it difficult to get in or out of it. However, they are incredibly stylish and give the illusion of more space, making them perfect for smaller spaces.
Storage beds:
As the name suggests, this type of bed is usually built with storage capabilities, either beneath the mattress, under the bed or inside the headboard. The most multipurpose and space-efficient type of bed, they are also available in several different types of woods, colours and finishes, making them highly versatile. If there’s any con to getting a storage bed, it has to be its weight. Because of the many different parts involved in the construction of a storage bed, they are very heavy and may be difficult to move once they have been assembled. This makes it a good choice for those who are looking for a bed they will be able to use for years to come, but may not be suitable for those who see relocation in their near future.
Headboard:
By separating the headboard and the base of the bed, you can make your bed options more versatile, cost-effective and less binding. You can mix and match your headboard with the base you chose, and can easily switch it up every few years if you wish. They can also be easily detached from the base and are usually pretty lightweight, making them easy to move. You can choose between upholstered headboards, hardwood or more statement pieces like velvet backed, cushioned or mirrored.
Canopy beds:
Also known as a four-poster bed, this is one of the more elaborate and high-end types of beds that can instantly grant your room a more luxurious feel. It has recently been gaining popularity because of its timeless style and coziness that seems to envelope you, but this type of bed may not be suitable for smaller spaces or rooms with low ceilings.
Bunk beds:
Usually used for children’s bedrooms or for university hostels and the like, bunk beds consist of two single beds placed one over the other with a set of stairs connecting the two. Not only are they incredibly space-saving, they are also very popular among kids of all ages, making it a perfect choice for those with limited real estate and more than one child. However, the top bunk may be a dangerous choice for kids under 6 and can be difficult to get in and out of. They also may not fit in a room with low ceilings.
Regardless of the type of bed you choose, depending upon the space available to you, you may want to add a chest of drawers, at least one side table and a desk and chair if your bedroom is also serving as your office. However, many smaller rooms may only allow enough space for a bed and a side table, in which case, making use of vertical space is often the best way of adding some life to a room.
When choosing bedroom furniture in Melbourne, remember that there’s no one-type-fits-all approach. Shop around and think about how you’re likely to be using your bedroom before going out and splurging on furniture to ensure your bedroom is both functional and stylish.