Platform bed

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Platform beds are beds whose base consists of a raised, flat, hard, horizontal surface meant to support just a mattress. Platform beds provide firm cushioning and with the support of slats or solid paneling, they eliminate the need for a box spring or a mattress foundation; they give adequate support for a mattress by itself.

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[edit] History

The first platform beds were better defined as loft beds. The beds were originally situated high off the ground to allow for more living space below. Over time the beds moved closer to the ground, to their present placement.

The beds are generally made from wood or metal, and may or may not include a headboard and foot board. Platform beds are able to support a mattress without the use of a box spring, although many beds are able to accommodate the box spring if desired.

[edit] Platform Bed Types

[edit] Contemporary

Many platform beds have a contemporary style that usually feature clean lines, neutral elements and solid color characteristics. These typically reflect European styles which usually include low features with straight bold lines. Some styles incorporate microfiber and leather padding on a headboard for use as a backrest when sitting in bed.

[edit] Traditional and Transitional

Traditional platform beds are modelled after the Arts & Crafts era of furniture. These beds produce the traditional look and feel of that early mission furniture but in the design of a platform bed. Transitional platform bed styles often reflect a more modern look but using traditional styling techniques to accent delicate modern scroll work contained within the headboard.

These copy a style found in old traditional looking frames, though like all platform beds, it is designed with slats and does not require a box spring.

[edit] Japanese or Asian Influence

Some platform beds have adopted Asian influences. Some are used in conjunction with traditional Japanese tatami mats.

[edit] Storage Platform Beds

Some platform beds have drawers underneath the frame as storage space, which may be located beneath the side rails or may include drawers incorporated into the footboard of the bed. Many other storage platform beds offer retractable storage headboard units which offer deep storage.

[edit] References

http://www.patentstorm.us/patents/5012538-claims.html
http://www.thefreedictionary.com/platform+bed
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/platform%20bed


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