Is a Panel or Platform Bed Better?

Platform Beds vs. Panel Beds

Beds come in all shapes and sizes, so finding one that meets your comfort and style standards can be challenging. Panel and platform beds are a popular choice for many people looking to decorate their bedrooms, but how do you know which of these frames is right for you? To help you decide, this article offers information about the designs, styles, sizes, finishes and features of platform vs. panel beds.

Overview

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Panel vs. Platform Bed Designs

While both platform and panel beds can provide maximum comfort for your relaxing bedroom layout, you might prefer the shape of one bed frame over the other. Compare the unique designs of each option to determine whether a panel bed or a platform bed can deliver the look you’re going for.

What Does a Panel Bed Look Like?

A panel bed is a classic option for those looking to promote a comfy, charming atmosphere in their bedrooms. Frames like these feature a tall, wide headboard that can fill empty wall space in rooms with high ceilings. A footboard at the opposite edge of the bed creates a closed-in, cozy feel when you snuggle in for a deep and restful slumber.

What is the Point of a Platform Bed?

Generally speaking, platform beds work best in small spaces with low ceilings, such as modest guest rooms, studio apartments, dorms and attic bedrooms. Along with low-profile frames that place them roughly 12 inches off the floor, platform beds typically lack mattress bases and footboards and feature shorter headboards.

Along with potentially saving space in a tiny bedroom, a platform bed’s low frame could make it easier for kids and shorter people to climb into and out of bed every night. Choosing a headboard-less platform bed might also be a good idea for those who want extra room for over-the-bed wall decor like decals, tapestries and mounted shelves.

Platform vs. Panel Bed Styles

Because of their unique design features, panel and platform beds have become a staple of particular decorative looks. Many people associate platform beds with a simple, stripped-down minimalist look due to their low-profile frames and lack of additional attachments. However, these beds can also work in a sleek, contemporary-style layout or a modern bedroom design that prioritizes functionality.

Panel beds, on the other hand, tend to feature traditional or rustic accents that help promote a classic or casual atmosphere. You can also find these popular bed frames in a wide range of different styles, including updated contemporary and blended transitional designs to complement your unique tastes.

Decorating With Platform and Panel Beds

Once you decide whether a panel or platform bed would be the best option for your comfy and stylish bedroom, you’ll need to choose a bed frame with the dimensions, finishes and features that suit your needs. Take the following details into account to ensure you bring home the perfect platform and panel beds for you and your family.

Panel Bed vs. Platform Bed Sizes

Step one in selecting a panel or platform bed is to determine what size bed frame you need. If you’re decorating a large primary or couples bedroom, consider a king-size platform or panel bed that offers plenty of elbow room. A queen-size platform bed is an excellent choice for a one-bedroom apartment, while a taller queen panel bed can enhance the cozy atmosphere in a spacious bonus room.

Furnishing a room for your toddlers, tweens and teens? Select twin-size panel and platform beds for your little ones, plus full-size platform and panel beds for your older kids. When browsing full-size platform and panel beds for your girls or full-size panel and platform beds for your boys, select models with button-tufting, decorative carved detailing and other accents that suit your teen’s tastes.

A range of girls twin-size platform and panel beds and twin panel and platform beds for boys are available for your younger kids as well. Even if you’re decorating a nursery for your newborn, you can bring home a convertible crib and reconfigure it into a panel or platform-style daybed when it’s time to transform the nursery into a big kid room.

Platform and Panel Bed Frame Finishes

Your panel or platform bed should also coordinate with the other colorful furnishings in your bedroom. Most people go with muted shades of black and gray to promote the calm, soothing atmosphere you need to fall asleep at night. However, bright white platform and panel beds can brighten up your bedroom palette and help you feel refreshed each morning.

Since beds are usually the centerpiece of the bedroom, you might consider choosing a more colorful platform or panel bed to enhance your layout’s eye-catching appeal. Upholstered panel and platform beds often come in a wide range of green, blue, pink and red materials. Some may even feature gorgeous floral, stripe or geometric patterns to complement your bedroom theme.

Built-in Panel and Platform Bed Features

For maximum comfort and style, bring home a panel bed or platform bed with additional practical design features. For example:

Both these bed frames can help you create a comfortable bedroom setup, so your choice between a panel bed vs. a platform bed usually depends on how you want your layout to look. Decide whether you prefer a classic stately