Living in a compact home doesn't mean compromising bedroom comfort or style. The right bed can transform your small bedroom into a functional sanctuary while maximising every precious centimetre. 

From clever storage solutions to versatile designs, modern bed options help you create a comfortable sleeping space without overwhelming your room. 

Let's explore seven innovative bed types that excel in small spaces, combining practicality with comfort to help you make the most informed choice for your compact bedroom.

1. Smart storage with ottoman beds

Ottoman beds offer seamless storage by lifting the entire mattress platform on hydraulic arms, revealing a vast storage compartment underneath. 

The mattress sits flush with the base, eliminating wasted space around the edges. This design proves particularly valuable in rooms where traditional furniture placement is challenging, as you won't need extra floor space for drawers or additional storage units.

You can get ottoman beds that lift from the end or side – some models also offer the option for both configurations during installation. 

2. Maximise space with divan drawer bases

Divan bases maintain a clean profile like ottoman beds by matching the mattress dimensions. 

Built-in drawers slide smoothly from the bed's sides or feet, providing accessible storage without extending beyond the bed's footprint. 

This design proves especially practical for storing seasonal items or daily essentials while maintaining a tidy, space-efficient bedroom layout.

Pictured: Giltedge Beds Divan Base, (available from Bedstar).

3. Versatile day beds for dual functionality

Day beds offer remarkable versatility, transforming from stylish seating to comfortable sleeping arrangements. 

Unlike traditional sofa beds, which often compromise mattress quality, day beds typically feature proper mattresses for enhanced comfort. Their dual-purpose nature makes them ideal for studio apartments or guest rooms where space must serve multiple functions.

Pictured: Flintshire Fabric Day Bed – Blue, (available from Bedstar).

4. Compact comfort with small doubles

When standard doubles overwhelm your space, small doubles offer a smart alternative. 

At 120 x 190 cm, they provide ample room for couples or individuals while saving valuable floor space. This 15 cm reduction in width can make a significant difference in narrow rooms, allowing for better furniture placement and improved flow around the bed.

5. High sleepers: complete bedroom solutions

Perfect for children's rooms, high sleepers maximise vertical space by elevating the bed and creating a functional zone underneath. 

Most high sleepers can accommodate a full workstation, storage solutions, and entertainment area beneath the sleeping platform. 

Pictured: Julian Bowen Aurora Highsleeper – White, (available from Bedstar).

The integrated approach eliminates the need for separate furniture pieces, effectively creating a complete bedroom within a minimal footprint.

6. Mid-sleepers: adaptable youth solutions

Mid-sleepers offer a lower-height alternative to high sleepers, ideal for younger children or rooms with lower ceilings. 

You can get models with clever storage solutions like pull-out drawers and shelving while maintaining a more accessible height. Some even have fold-out desks and customisable storage options, allowing the furniture to adapt as your child's needs change.

7. Folding beds: hidden guest solutions

Folding beds excel in rooms that can't permanently accommodate a guest bed. Modern designs have quality mattresses that store vertically against walls or inside cabinets when not in use, instantly freeing up floor space. 

These beds prove invaluable for home offices or craft rooms that occasionally need to host overnight visitors without sacrificing their primary function.

Finding your ideal space-saving bed

Consider what matters most for your space. Small doubles and ottoman beds maximise sleeping comfort while keeping storage hidden. High sleepers create complete bedroom zones above, working best for older kids who need study areas. 

Under lower ceilings, mid-sleepers adapt to younger children's changing needs. Day beds offer versatile seating and sleeping for multi-purpose rooms. 

Folding beds disappear when not hosting guests, and divan bases —despite their plainness — blend seamless storage with full-size sleeping space.