Knowing a few facts about platform beds is in order, especially when considering going out and purchasing one of these very nice beds.
They have a generally long and distinguished history, though they weren't always known as the kind of bed they're called today.
Back then, they were better known as "loft beds, " and they filled a very specific role in the household.
In those days, a typical loft bed was situated high off the ground in order to give more living space to the room below the bed.
In the days when a commoner or a person of limited means could only afford a very small living space, having a bed that could be elevated some distance up off the ground came in very handy.
Gradually, they were lowered down almost to the ground to where they are today.
The variety of materials used for one of these beds is fairly limitless, though they are most commonly seen made from wood or metal frame construction.
Because there is a platform involved, a mattress can be used without benefit of a box spring.
This mattress will sit directly on top of the platform, though - if desired - a box spring may certainly be used.
There are several different bed types these days, with the most common (and popular) being what's called a "contemporary" platform.
These beds feature nice clean lines and are neutral or solid in color so that they can fit into the widest varieties of decor possible.
One can find them featuring a headboard or footboard in a variety of styles as well.
However, many such beds as these often don't come with a footboard or headboard, so keep that in mind when considering a purchase.
There are also a number of so-called "traditional" styles of bed that try to incorporate the idea of a platform into a bed that was made for a more handsomely-aged style such as the Arts and Crafts era or even the early Mission era of furniture design.
Nowadays, many furniture stores are offering these kinds of beds in prices and styles suitable for almost every budget.
One can find something very sleek and low-slung or one can pick from something that looks far more traditional or even retro.
Prices also range from around $250 for a bare-bones bed up to more than $1500 for a very complete bed made of an extremely nice wood.
Platform beds have enjoyed steady popularity for years, which is due in part to the fact that a person can purchase one of these beds and never have to purchase a box spring, being as the mattress can sit directly on top of the platform.
They also look very sleek and stylish no matter their particular era or the materials they are made from.