Architecture of the Bed

Have you ever really looked at the way a bed is constructed?  If not, it may be difficult to comprehend why some beds are so much more comfortable and well manufactured than others and where costs are incurred with more expensive beds.  If you’ve never considered what makes a bed most comfortable for you, then you will have a very difficult time shopping for replacements.  The architecture of the bed is quite important to the way that you sleep.  To look at this more closely, consider the way platform beds, some of the simplest bed constructions, are built.

The basic bed is a combination of a frame and a mattress, covered with design elements.  The architecture of the design is what makes the bed aesthetically appealing, while the inner workings are what give it value.  The frame of a bed is created with slats that support the mattress running one direction and support beams running perpendicular to that.  These all connect to the four side pieces, which are again supported by legs, though a platform bed may actually rest on the floor without legs.  Whether looking at wrought iron beds or some other material, the frame is based on the same concept.

Loft beds are similar, with the legs extending high to create a raised bed.  They are much like a bunk without the bottom bed.  However, in order to support the weight of an individual without swaying, the sturdiness has to be built into the structure of the legs.  Sometimes, this is accomplished through the use of support beams around the edge of the legs at the bottom, while other times it is simply welding and careful construction with hard metals and woods that provide the support necessary.

In the same way, kids bunk beds need to be extremely sturdy to support not only their weight safely but also their penchant for climbing and using the beds like a jungle gym.  Because bunks are more often metal to save money on furniture that will need to be replaced as the children get older, careful welding needs to be done to make sure that all parts are constructed together in a way that assures there will be no accidents.  This means checking to make sure welding connections are secure with no gaps as well as making sure there are no spurs or sharp edges that can cut the kids.

One of the challenges of the architecture of a bed is to provide a solid base that accommodates the user in terms of appearance and looks as good as it feels.  The other is often size.  Most people want large beds in their master space, and this can cause a need for more careful construction and additional materials for support.  For example, if you have king sized furniture, the bed will often require additional support in the middle to avoid sagging or breaking.  King Wood Beds are the most sturdy, using hard wood for support beams under the heavy mattresses and what is usually two twin box springs beneath the mattress.  Obviously, there is more to consider when choosing a bed than how it looks, and knowing in advance what to look for in terms of your comfort zone can save you a lot of time in shopping for your next bed.