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Buying Guide: How to Choose a Dining Table for Your Needs

When shopping for a dining room table, there are many things to consider—from dining table styles to dining table shapes and sizes. But sometimes, before you can consider those things, you first need to assess how you use your dining room to begin with.

Before You Shop for a Dining Table

When thinking about dining room design ideas, a couple different factors can help you make design, style, and layout decisions based on your own personal use cases. First, consider how much space you have to work with and how your dining room flows and connects with the rest of your home. The size of your dining room will have a lot of bearing on what goes inside of it—so this is a good place to start when choosing the right dining table for your home.

You also want to think about how you use the space and even who in your home uses it the most. Does your dining room double as a home office or homeschooling zone? Do you entertain a lot or have pets? Who uses the dining room table, how it’s used, and even how often you host dinner guests are all big factors that will influence what you need in a dining table.

Wondering how to choose a dining table for your needs? Keep reading for our complete buying guide on choosing the right dining table for the size and layout of your space, as well as your lifestyle needs. This guide will help you find the perfect dining table for your home!

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If You Have a Small Dining Room

Look for a smaller or expandable table: In a small dining room, you want to choose a table that is proportional to the size of your space. As a result, you’ll obviously want to go for a smaller-sized table in a small dining room. If you like entertaining, consider an expandable table that can be at its smallest size day-to-day but expand when needed to accommodate extra seats.

Get creative in extra-small spaces: For an extra small dining room—or if you only have a breakfast nook, or no dining space at all—you can still create a dining area. You could put a small cafe table and two chairs in the corner of your living room, or even use a console table with stools against a longer wall. We also love the idea of having a desk that can double as a dining table.

Eliminate sharp corners: Oval or round tablesare best in small dining rooms. They don’t have sharp corners you could bump into when navigating between chairs and the wall, which makes them easier to move around in a small space. They’re also better for squeezing more people around in a pinch, since there are no corners that limit the number of people you can fit.

Reduce tripping hazards: In a small dining room, you’ll also want to make sure your chairs can comfortably slide under your table. If they don’t, they’ll stick out into the room and create less walking space and can easily become a tripping hazard. So, choose a table style that allows you to push your chairs in.

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If You Want to Fill Out a Large Space

Choose a table table that commands the space: In a large dining room, you can go for a standard-size dining table, or even a large, oversized table. Like in a small dining room, you still want your table to be in proportion to the space. So, if you have a particularly large space, opt for a table that has some heft and visually commands the space, like a farmhouse-style table. You could also opt for an extra-long table for a communal eating feel. Regardless, with a large dining room, you have the space to have a large dining table set up year-round rather than needing to expand a table or set up extra eating spaces when hosting guests.

Try a rectangular table: Rectangular tables are the most common dining table shape, and they work well in large dining rooms. They’re best for formal dining, where you want someone to sit at the head of the table, and they’re also great for filling out a dining room. However, there are some larger oval-shaped tables that can give your dining room a softer, more organic look.

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If You Have an Open Living Room/Dining Room

When your dining room is open or connected to your living room, you not only want to consider the size, but also how the elements within each room interact with each other. So, consider proportion to properly fill out (but not overfill) the space, and choose furniture that mixes well with the style and proportion of your living room furniture. Rectangular tables are best for open living room/dining rooms, as you can use the table to help partition the two rooms and create a sense of organization within the open space.

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If You Have Young Kids

Pick the right material: When you have young children, a big thing to consider is the material of your dining table. Glass tables are hard to keep clean and are easier to break—so avoid that if you have kids. Instead, choose something more durable, like a solid or composite wood. Veneer can also be good, but it chips and scratches more easily. Another super durable option? Sealed stone, like ceramic or concrete. However, avoid marble in lighter shades, as it can easily stain. Rustic surfaces like weathered wood or metal are best for rambunctious kids. They develop a natural patina, so nicks and scuffs easily blend in. Darker finishes help hide accidents, like spills and stains, but they can sometimes show more scratches.

Avoid sharp edges: We also recommend avoiding sharp edges. While some rectangular tables have more rounded corners, certain styles and materials have very sharp corners, so we’d veer away from those. Sometimes tables with metal legs have decorative elements that could also pose a risk to small children.

Consider the base of the table: You’ll also want to think about the leg style of a dining room table—specifically, if you want a table with four legs or more of a pedestal style. Both can work with kids, but it’s good to consider if you can fit a high-chair and dining chair side-by-side between the legs of a table, or even how the base of the table will affect clipping a child’s seat to the table.

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If You Live Alone

If you live alone or just don’t eat much at your table, go for a smaller table and fill out the rest of your dining space for accent furniture. It’s nice to have the option to use a dining table if you have people over, but you can get something smaller so you don’t have a large table going unused when it’s just you. This also allows you to choose a table that can work for the size of your space if you’re in a smaller apartment.

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If You Need to Seat a Lot of People

Large dining tables can seat 6-8 people, so they’re great for larger families, allowing your whole family to sit around it at once. Sometimes you can seat even more with large tables that are extendable. This is not only great for large families but also for those who entertain a lot.

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If You Have Pets

If you have pets who like to chew on your furniture legs, consider a table with a pedestal base or with metal legs. This way they won’t be able to get their mouths around the base to gnaw on it. If you like the look of a table with slender legs, simply consider metal legs rather than wooden ones, which your pet won’t want to chew on.

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If You Love to Host

If you host often, you’ll want to consider that when choosing a dining room table. Like we mentioned earlier, if you have a large dining room, you can have a large dining table set up year-round.

Try an extendable table for extra seating options: But in a more average-sized dining room, extendable tables are great for hosting. For everyday use, you can keep the table smaller and fit just your family around the table. But when you have guests over, you can add a leaf or two to increase the number of people you can fit around the table.

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Go for a drop-leaf table in small spaces: If you love to host but only have a small dining room, you could consider a drop-leaf table. This allows the table to get pretty compact, and you can push it up against the wall when not in use. But, when having friends over for dinner, you can pull it out from the wall, put up the leaves, and fit a few extra people around the table.

Squeeze in more people with a round or oval pedestal table: When hosting, do you tend to try to squeeze a lot of people around your table? You may want to opt for a pedestal table rather than one with four legs so extra chairs can squeeze in without interference. You could also go for a round or oval table rather than a rectangular one, as a rectangular table will limit the number of people you’re able to seat around it due to the corners.

If Your Dining Room Doubles As Your Home Office

If your dining room doubles as your home office, and you use your dining table as a desk, make sure your table is large enough for your work supplies and at a comfortable height for you to work at. If you’re going to sit somewhere for eight hours, you want to make sure it’s ergonomic! In a small space, consider a bar-height table, which can double as a standing desk and gives you room to sneak in some storage underneath.

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How to Pick a Coffee Table Shape to Go With Your Sofa

After landing on a sofa (or a sectional), a coffee table is one of the next most important pieces of furniture in your living room. It helps tie together your seating area, and offers the practicality of a surface for placing a drink, kicking up your feet, and displaying your favorite coffee table books.

But with so many different coffee table sizes, shapes, and materials to choose from, it can be overwhelming to land on the right coffee table for your living room. So, today we’re going to help you out with a coffee table buying guide! We’ll walk you through the different coffee table shapes, show you how they work with different sofa shapes (think sectional or sofa chaise), and ultimately help you find the right coffee table for your space!

The Basics of Choosing a Coffee Table

But before all that, you’ll want to consider a few general rules of thumb when it comes to choosing the right coffee table.

Coffee Table Height

First up: coffee table height. You want your coffee table to be no more than 2-3 inches above or below your sofa’s seat height. (Though, the closer to the same height, the better.) If it’s too tall or too short, it won’t be as practical to use and frankly just won’t look as good.

Coffee Table Length

And, in terms of length, consider the space you need to walk and navigate around your coffee table within the rest of the room. A good rule of thumb is leaving about 17 inches from each end of your coffee table to the edge of your sofa for walkability. With that, in general you’ll want your coffee table to sit on the center of your area rug, no matter what sofa style you have or what shape of coffee table you choose.

Explore more coffee table do’s and don’ts here! Ready to dig in? Read on for our ultimate guide to choosing a coffee table to go with your sofa.

Best Coffee Table Shapes for Standard Sofas

If you have a standard sofa, you have a lot of flexibility when it comes to picking a coffee table. You can safely go with just about any shape, and it’s just easier to know where to place it. (Simply center the coffee table on your sofa, and make sure it’s about two-thirds the length of your sofa.) So, really, it just comes down to preference. Below, you’ll see how different coffee table shapes work with a standard sofa.

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Rectangular Coffee Tables

A rectangular coffee table fits well with a traditional, standard-size sofa. It offers a lot of surface area—providing a surface not only for people sitting on the sofa but also on the side chair. And, the coffee table pictured is a perfect example of the right height in comparison to your sofa. We’d say that, for a standard sofa, a rectangular coffee table is your best all-around choice. This is a no-brainer shape that you really can’t go wrong with.

Square Coffee Tables

When it comes to a square coffee table with a traditional sofa, our stylists recommend doing two squares side-by-side rather than just one. A single square coffee table would feel small and awkward on it’s own with a long rectangular sofa—leaving your seating area feeling unbalanced. So, doubling up on the squares gives your living room a more balanced, cohesive look. Plus, with two squares, you get double the surface area! It gives you the concept of a rectangular coffee table, but with more visual intrigue.

Round Coffee Tables

If you want to add visual interest to your living room, along with creating a bit of a statement in your space, go for a round coffee table. Just make sure it has a large enough circumference to balance out the length of your sofa! You don’t get as much surface space in comparison to a rectangular coffee table, so we recommend supplementing your seating area with some side tables for extra surface area. You could also consider doing two round tables, and either replacing them side-by-side like the squares, or staggering them, with one closer to the sofa and one further away. Staggering a set creates varied walking space around your tables and sofa and more visual interest to your set-up.

A round coffee table—whether you go for one larger table or a pair of smaller ones—is the most versatile shape and our pick for best all-around coffee table shape for any sofa style. Whether you have a standard sofa, a sectional, or a sofa with a chaise, a round coffee table will tuck into any shape, as long as the size proportions are correct. Round coffee tables are also the most kid-friendly shape, since there are no hard edges or corners.

Oval Coffee Tables

An oval-shaped coffee table is another great shape for a standard sofa. It’s obviously a bit longer than a round coffee table, so it gives you as much surface area as possible while still offering a softer, more organic shape. And choosing an oval style with a more unique base, like this one, adds some visual interest. Like a round coffee table, and oval is also great if you have kids, because of the round edges—no sharp corners here!

Abstract/Organic Coffee Tables

An abstract or organic-shaped coffee table is great for inspiring movement in your living room, adding a functional statement to your space. There’s a sense of fluidity when you opt for a more organic shape—though, depending on the specific style you choose, it can give a totally different vibe to the space. Here, we have both a table that’s a soft triangle shape with three legs, and a more heavy, organic style, which each create completely different looks to the seating arrangement. With the second one, you’ll want to make sure you figure out the balance—since it’s such a heavy, solid piece, you wouldn’t want to pair it with a delicate or small sofa. With all coffee tables, consider the size and scale of your sofa and pair a coffee table accordingly.

Regardless, abstract and organic shapes in coffee tables work well with a regular-sized sofa, offering a more dynamic look. We love that, whatever vantage point you have in the room, you’re going to see it differently. This gives your coffee table the feeling of being an evolving object within your space that adds dimension and a sculptural quality.

Best Coffee Table Shapes for Sectionals

While all of the same shapes are available to you when you have a sofa with a chaise or a sectional, different shapes and sizes work differently within this context. While we’re just showing you how these shapes work with a sofa with a chaise, the same principles apply to a sectional with a full L-shape.

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Rectangle Coffee Tables

If you opt for a rectangular coffee table with a sectional or chaise, you’ll just want to make sure the length of the coffee table fits with a safe amount of space between the edge of the sofa and the chaise, without the end of the coffee table going past the other end of the sofa! A rectangular coffee table gives you more space relative to the rest of your seating arrangement though (in this case, in the foreground of the image) since the shape means it’s not protruding into the side of the seating area that’s opposite your sofa.

Square Coffee Tables

A single square coffee table works really well for a sofa with a chaise or a sectional. It tucks perfectly into the angle of the chaise while still giving you enough breathing room. It’s also great for those who love a more traditional take on a seating arrangement, since the lines of the coffee table align with the lines of the sofa, with edges meeting edges and the square shape echoing the angle of the sofa. This is our pick for a no-brainer coffee table shape that you really can’t go wrong with when you have a chaise or sectional.

Like the look of a square but want softer edges? An ottomoan is a great coffee table alternative, which also provides a comfortable, makeshift seat or footrest!

Round Coffee Tables

A round coffee table with this sofa shape has a grounding element and is easier to navigate around than other shapes. It offers more room to play around with the chair placement within your living room, and overall is easier to design around since you don’t have hard lines or edges. As with a traditional sofa, you can also opt for two smaller round tables versus one larger round coffee table. This creates a more playful look that’s very flexible and forgiving. You can stagger them and even swing one around to be a side table when you want to. It breaks up the angle of the L-shape on the sofa and adds an organic element that brings some breathing room to your layout.

Oval Coffee Tables

An oval coffee table works really nicely to balance out the edge of the sofa. The table pictured is a smaller model; we’d recommend sizing up if you’re going to do an oval with this type of sofa. But just make sure you have enough room for walking on all sides of the table.

Abstract/Organic Coffee Tables

An abstract or organic coffee table would also give you that ability to break up the angle of the L-shape of the sofa. The soft triangle table fits really nicely in this setting and adds a bit of a statement to the center of the room. This is a bigger table, but it doesn’t feel too large for the space. That’s because, since its legs lift it off the floor, there’s a sense of airiness to this look. (One of our favorite tricks to help a space feel larger.)

The more solid, geometric coffee table also works in this set-up, but it’s definitely a heavier approach. It anchors the center of the room and visually balances out the weight of the chaise versus the chair that’s diagonal from the chaise. However, since it’s a solid, heavy table, it’s not very moveable.

Explore Coffee Table Styles

Choosing the best coffee table to go with your sofa also means finding one with the right style. As evidenced by the variety of coffee tables featured in this post, there are so many styles to consider! If you’re uncertain about what style or shape of coffee table to choose, take our style quiz, or work with one of our designers to find the best furniture pieces and layout for your whole living room!

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New Home Furniture Buying Guide: Where to Skimp vs. Splurge When Furnishing Your New Space

July 14, 2020/0 Comments/in Interior Design Buying Guides, Tips & Guides /by Modsy

So you just bought a new home. Congratulations! A new home, whether it’s your first home or you’re simply moving somewhere new, is a big and exciting venture. And it’s also an opportunity to design a home you love, from scratch!

But you also just bought a house—so you may not have a ton of cash to spend on filling your whole home with fancy new furniture. Though you also don’t want to wait to purchase everything and end up living out of boxes for months with no place to sit! Trust us, there’s a middle road, and it involves making some purchases now and holding off on others until you’re more settled in and have time to save up more money.

Since buying furniture can be quite the endeavor, we polled our designers to get their take on what to invest in right away, where you can skimp, and what to buy over time. Without further ado, here’s our new home furniture buying guide!

The Furniture to Buy Right Away

There are certain pieces of furniture that our designers recommend buying right away, so you have them from the get-go in your new home. These pieces will help make your home more comfortable and give you some interior design ideas to help define the style of the space.

Sofa

A sofa is a piece of furniture that gets heavy use. As the central object in your living room, it’s a piece around which you can build your entire room. Because of that, it’s a great piece to buy right away—and don’t be afraid to splurge. A sofa isn’t just a trendy style piece; it’s a versatile piece of furniture, and an investment that will last for years. So, make sure you buy one that you really love! Wondering what type of sofa you should buy? Check out our guide on the benefits of a sofa vs. sectional.

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Media Cabinet

The other big piece of furniture you’ll want to invest in right away is a media cabinet. Having a place to safely house your TV and electronics is a must! This is another piece that can last for years—perhaps even longer than a sofa, since it doesn’t endure as much daily wear and tear. As a possible focal point in your living room, give plenty of thought into the style of the cabinet you choose—and make sure it’s the right size for your TV. With its longevity and style status in your living room, think of a media cabinet as an investment and be willing to spend a little extra money on it.

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Window Coverings

Unless you don’t mind your neighbors seeing right into your house at night, be sure to buy window treatments right away! This is one thing you can buy cheap right away and upgrade later. But, if you’re ready, you can also just go for the splurge! If you’re ready to buy a long-term solution, opt for drapes and shades. Otherwise, you could always just buy some Ikea curtains or even tape up some butcher paper for an immediate solution!

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The Furniture to Hold on Purchasing

With any home, regardless of budget, there are a few things you probably want to hold off on purchasing until you’re more settled in and have a good grasp on the style and feel of your home. Here’s what our designers suggest holding off on for a while.

Art

Art can make or break a space. That’s why we’re big believers in waiting to fill your new home with art, and take your time finding the perfect pieces for your space. Original artwork, or even large-scale prints, tend to be pricier. But quality art is an investment worth making, especially when it can directly support the artist who made it! And the great thing about art is that, if you already have a piece in mind, you can build your whole room around it. But you can also do the opposite and find artwork that suits the space that you’ve already created.

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Rugs

Rugs can be tricky—not only is it important to find one in the colors and style that will best suit your space, but you also want to find the best size for your space! With all that in mind, it’s best to wait until you’ve been in your home for a bit before you buy a rug. That way, you’ll get a feel for how you’ll use the space (which will influence the material and pile of rug you choose) and will help you determine the size you need. Rugs can be expensive—so this can feel like a splurge regardless. But waiting also gives you time to save up for the rug of your dreams!

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Small Decor

Want some tips on how to decorate a room? We’ll start here: Don’t clutter up your new space with cheap knick knacks and random decor! Instead, buy small decor over time, and take on a curator’s mindset. Find decorative objects you truly love, and thoughtfully create collections on your shelves and surfaces rather than just filling your space with cheap stuff for the sake of filling out shelves.

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The Furniture to Buy Cheap and Replace Later

There are some things you’ll need right away to keep yourself from living out of suitcases and boxes and make your home more comfortable. But that doesn’t mean you have to blow a bunch of money to fill your space. Below, we’re covering the pieces of furniture that you can buy on the cheap now and upgrade later.

Clothing Storage

Clothing storage is absolutely essential. But dressers and closet systems can be quite expensive! So, either use something you already have for the time being, or buy some inexpensive clothing storage right away. Then, over time, save money and give yourself time to find the perfect dresser later on! A quality dresser is something that will last a long time, so it’s worth the wait and the eventual investment.

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Side Tables

You need side tables as a surface for books, drinks, lamps, and more—but finding the perfect pair takes time. For now, buy some inexpensive side tables that are simple and practical, then splurge on a set that perfectly embodies your style later on!

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Bookcases

Bookcases—whether in a living room, office, or children’s room—are important pieces to house books, toys, office supplies, and decorative objects. So, you may need one or two right away to help with organization throughout your home. So, buy an inexpensive bookcase at first, then upgrade to something more substantial once you find the right piece and have the budget for it. This will also give you time to gauge where you want to place your bookcases, which will help you determine the size and style you want!

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10 Master Bedroom Designs To Inspire Your Perfect Bedroom Escape

February 21, 2020/0 Comments/in Bedroom Interior Design, Decor Inspiration, Style Ideas, Style Inspiration /by Modsy

Bedrooms are our own personal at-home oases. They are places just for us to use as escapes from the go-go-go of daily life. Not to mention that it’s the single place we spend the majority of our time in! Even if we’re asleep, those hours still count. That’s why your bedroom design is the best place to let your unique personality really shine through!

Because master bedroom design is so important, it can be hard to decide which bedroom look is right for you. First, you want to think about what design style you like—Modern? Rustic? Contemporary? Industrial? Then consider a color palette, decor, artwork, etc. And you don’t want to forget about the layout! All the different factors involved can start to feel overwhelming. If you are embarking on a bedroom update, we rounded up 10 master bedroom designs to use for a little inspiration.

The Look: Rustic Minimalist

Rustic minimalist style is all about a neutral color palette that creates a soothing vibe. Rustic touches and natural materials add warmth to keep the minimalism from coming off as too stark.

The Key Elements

The grey-blue accent wall here is the only color in the space, giving the space an easy, serene feeling. The warm acorn wood bed frame gives the room visual texture and warmth. Sleek, minimal foundational furniture and industrial accents—like the nightstands—create a cohesive style. Natural materials like wood, jute and ceramics and the few pops of pattern throughout all contribute to the cozy vibes here.

This Look is Perfect for…

This master bedroom design makes a perfectly relaxing pit-stop for the busy professional. It’s ideal for anyone who likes casual clean bedrooms with a modern edge!

The Look: Rustic Warmth

The rustic warmth look is a blend of rustic and transitional styles into one cohesive bedroom design. It’s a simple design with a timeless style and warm, inviting energy.

The Key Elements

For this look, think substantial wooden pieces paired with solid/hearty foundational furniture. It draws on simple rustic forms with no frills or ornament—just the basics! Then add in a classic black metal bed frame and light fixtures for extra stately sophistication. The light, celery green walls let the room breathe and lift the otherwise heavy furniture combo. Top it all off with a variety of finishes which work together to create a cohesive and dynamic style!

This Look is Perfect for…

Anyone who likes unpretentious but bold statements.

The Look: Refined Rustic

Another cool approach to rustic master bedroom design is the combo of traditional rustic with a classic, formal style. This look blends an inviting mix of classic items paired with low key, casual elements for a look that’s rustic with a refined edge.

The Key Elements

Start with classic pieces, like the shelf, side tables, and upholstered stools to lend an air of sophistication. And then bring in some warmth with low key, casual items like the rattan chair and headboard. This room also has slight beach vibes with a nod to classic style, and it feels eclectic and casual. The ocean print, shell chandelier, and neutral color palette with pops of blue add a little glam to the space. And the dark and light woods mixed together add depth and visual contrast to this master bedroom design.

This Look is Perfect for…

Those who want something classic and timeless but still relaxed enough to kick back in.

The Look: Mod Collector

For a cool take on a modern bedroom, check out this blend of mid-century modern, eclectic, and rustic styles. This master bedroom design blends mid-century forms and design principles with a rustic flair.

The Key Elements

Start with natural materials like woven elements, a jute rug, natural wood nightstand, rattan bed frame, etc. These help to lend a boho vibe to the space and also give it a rustic flair. The linen curtains and woven baskets are great accessories for this style, too. The high contrast neutrals pop against the subtle earthy-green wall color for a funky, eclectic look. Plus, we love using green in master bedroom design!

This Look is Perfect for…

Anyone who likes boho style but wants the bedroom to still feel like a low-key, soothing escape.

The Look: Mid-Century Chic

Mid-century chic is what happens when mid-century gets mixed in with a splash of glam. It’s an update on traditional Mid-Century Modern style with a lot more sass and glitz. It’s a cool style combo that feels cozy and inviting with a modern twist.

The Key Elements

This chic master bedroom design starts with a minimalist base like the subtle styling and restrained color palette. Then, layer in lux accents like brass and velvet to add a little glam to the design. The clean bedroom layout adds flow to the room while the dark gray walls are extra cozy and comforting. The contrast of warm wood finishes with metal and black and white color palette, and the monochrome prints make an impact with high contrast.

This Look is Perfect for…

Those of you who love mid-century design but can’t resist a glamorous touch.

The Look: Chic Collector

This modern bedroom design blends a monochromatic color scheme with an eclectic mix of styles like classic, mid-century, and a little bit of romantic drama. The overall look has the exquisite tastes of a collector and just the right amount of moodiness for the boudoir.

The Key Elements

The monochromatic color scheme here is tied together with pops of crisp whites and soft pinks for a look that’s relaxing and refined. It lends a sophisticated and curated edge to the whole space. Dusty reds and pinks create a totally contemporary sense of drama and give the room an earthy undertone. Mix soft furnishings like the headboard, velvet chair, and fur throw with classic items like the mirror, lamps, and chandelier. Mid-century pieces like the lamps and bedside table also complement this chic style.

This Look is Perfect for…

Anyone who isn’t afraid of a little drama but still wants a relaxing and zen bedroom to come home to.

The Look: Beachy Blue Bedroom

If you want your bedroom to feel like vacation all year round, then this beachy blue bedroom design might be just right. This look blends rustic elements with beachy colors for a super serene style.

The Key Elements

This coastal style is all about the classic beachy color palette. The soft blue walls are reminiscent of a summer sky or gentle waves and the natural woods and neutrals are earthy like sand. Throw in a little playful pattern mixing to add a preppy touch—like the pinstripes and polka dots. Work in plenty of natural textures to get the beachy style—bamboo blinds, woven wall art, woven bed frame, macrame planters, and the jute rug all add visual depth and a cozy rustic feel.

This Look is Perfect for…

Anyone who wants to bring the outdoors in, in a cozy beach house style.

The Look: Woodland Chic

Another bold approach to classic design is this woodland chic style bedroom. It blends elements of classic and glamorous design, to find the right balance between sophistication and whimsy.

The Key Elements

This look is refined and delicate, but the high-contrast palette gives it an artsy edge. It’s the kind of style that’s fit for Snow White after she moves out from the seven dwarves’ place! Whimsical furniture pieces like the bedframe, studded club chair and fur stool, also add a modern flair to the space. Geometric patterns like the rug and pillows give a slightly modern edge to princess-worthy spaces and the white bed frame makes a statement but still feels subtle.

This Look is Perfect for…

Anyone who dreams of a magical forest getaway as their own private escape at the end of the day.

The Look: Mod Enthusiast Bedroom

Mod enthusiast style is what happens when mid-century meets transitional design. It’s a bold take on modern with an extra dose of stately personality.

The Key Elements

This look makes us think of a contemporary mad-men bedroom with a moody, jewel toned twist. It’s an updated version of the classic mid-century modern style that brings in a contemporary edge. Rich jewel tones and deep wood furnishings provide a luxe air that’s super grown-up but still easy to maintain. The mix of patterns in desert hues and neutrals is balanced and earthy for a warm, organic feel.

This Look is Perfect for…

Those who value efficient design that doesn’t hold back on style.

The Look: Rustic Bohemian Glam

Part eclectic, part rustic, part boho, part glam—these are the style inspirations behind this funky master bedroom design. The look is very bohemian and blends in a variety of elements to give the sense the design has been collected and curated over time.

The Key Elements

This look features an eclectic mix of styles. The bed, chandelier, and standing mirror with rounded edges offer touches of art deco glam. Mid-century modern pieces like the brass light fixtures and nightstands add that cool, collected vibe. The entire space has an effortless edge with style touches like plants, the funky leaning mirror and the mix of patterns for visual texture.

This Look is Perfect for…

Anyone who wants a room to show off your style and personality. This look is a great way to give your unique tastes a chance to shine.

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Bed Frame Styles: A Guide to Finding the Perfect Type of Bed For You

October 11, 2018/13 Comments/in Interior Design Buying Guides, Tips & Guides, Tips & Guides /by Modsy

When it comes to finding the type of bed frame that’s perfect for you, picking the right mattress size is the easy part. But there are so many other factors to consider—like the color, material, and bed frame style—that you can easily feel overwhelmed.

Not to mention questions like, do I need a box spring? What about a headboard and footboard? Is a canopy bed too much? What’s a sleigh bed and is it just for log cabins?

If parsing through all the different types of bed frames and variety of styles has you ready to take a nap, this guide is here to help!

We tried on the most popular bed frame designs, added a few newcomers for 2020, and are breaking down the pros and cons of each. Read on to find out which type of bed frame is right for you.

The Platform Bed Frame

Out of all the types of beds, one of the most popular frame styles is the platform bed. Platform bed frames come in a wide range of styles and offer a sleek, low-profile look. You can easily spot a platform bed frame by its flat base—all you need is a mattress, no box spring required!

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The Pros:

Cost-Effective: Platform bed frames are generally more affordable, as you don’t need to purchase a box spring to go with them.

Use Any Mattress: You can use any type of mattress with your platform bed. They’re especially perfect for memory foam mattresses.

Small Space Friendly: Platform bed frames are one of the best frame styles for small bedrooms. Why? Their sleek design takes up less floor space, which will help you minimize clutter.

The Cons:

Climbing In and Out: Platform beds tend to be low to the ground, so climbing in and out of bed takes getting used to. If you have back or knee problems, consider if this is something you want to do daily!

A Note for Side-Sleepers: Because the mattress sits directly on top of a solid platform or wooden slats, platform beds tend to be firmer. For side-sleepers, a firm mattress can create too much pressure and might become uncomfortable.

What to Look For:

Platform beds are made for comfort across the board, so find a design or style that appeals to you. Many styles also feature hidden interior storage—an added bonus for small-space dwellers!

Perfect For…

Small spaces, such as urban lofts or small apartments. They also work well for open floor plans, as platform beds have a sleek look and feel that won’t add visual clutter.

The Upholstered Bed Frame

If it’s luxury you’re looking for, upholstered beds have you covered. These beds are super comfy, bold, and can easily fit into a wide range of spaces.

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The Pros:

Ultra-Comfy: The cushioned support and a soft headboard means you can comfortably read or watch TV in bed.

Variety: There are tons of different types of fabric, color, and pattern choices, so you’re bound to find a design that works with the rest of your bedroom.

The Cons:

Maintenance: You’ll need to keep your upholstered bed in tip-top shape with frequent and light vacuuming to keep dust and pet hair at bay. If you’re allergic to dust, an upholstered bed might not be for you.

Wear and Tear: Because fabric is simply less durable than wood or metal, dents, impressions, and grease spots can develop over time.

What to Look For:

Make sure the bed frames are made of sturdy hardwoods and choose a fabric and color that can stand up to a little wear over time, such as a deep purple, navy, or gray. Check out our guide to upholstered beds for more helpful tips.

Perfect For…

Classic and traditional-style bedrooms or a large master bedroom that needs an infusion of cozy vibes.

The Storage Bed

Designed to help you maximize storage in the bedroom, the storage bed is the most multipurpose and space-efficient of the bed frame styles.

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The Pros:

Storage (Duh): Storage capabilities are designed and built directly into the bed frame, so you have a bed frame that is one cohesive unit, stocked with everything you need!

Sturdy: Many storage beds are made with beautiful woods that give them good looks as well as a sturdy and solid construction.

The Cons:

Difficult to Move: Because they have all those extra parts and pieces, storage beds are heavy. And since they’re often built as one large piece, they tend to be difficult to move.

More Expensive: Equally hefty is the price tag on storage beds. They can often be more expensive than other bed frame styles.

Maintenance: It’s hard to maintain the hardware and track rollers that are built into the storage units underneath the bed. Over time, these can fall off or become loose and require repair.

What to Look For:

Opt for a platform bed with storage built into the base. This approach guarantees your bed will have firm mattress support given the flat surface, deep storage units, and a stylish streamlined look.

Perfect For…

Modern and eclectic style rooms, especially a city apartment bedroom where storage is limited. Just make sure there’s enough space to fully pull out the under-bed compartments! Storage beds are also great for kids bedrooms where extra and easy storage is always welcome.

The Sleigh Bed Frame

Simply put, the sleigh bed is exactly what it sounds like—a bed that’s shaped like a sleigh, with a high headboard and footboard. This is one of the types of bed frames that has serious style and works in any setting.

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The Pros:

Slay With Style: A sleigh bed is an instant statement piece that’s sure to become the focal point in your bedroom. Sleigh beds come in styles ranging from solid wood designs to upholstered versions with more streamlined appeal, so you’ll have endless options to choose from.

The Cons:

Limited Leg Room: If you’re tall, a sleigh bed with a footboard might not be the best option for you.

Difficult to Move: Traditional sleigh beds are made entirely from high-quality solid woods so they tend to be heavy. Modern upholstered versions are lighter, but can still be unwieldy to move.

More Expensive: Sleigh beds are generally quite expensive, given their design and construction.

What to Look For:

If you’re considering an upholstered sleigh bed, make sure the bed frame is made of wood and not metal for durability.

Perfect For…

Grand, classic-style rooms and modern, open bedrooms alike. They’re suitable for spaces with distinctive interior architecture, like exposed wood beams or ornate molding.

The Headboard

For a bed that gives you all the style without the full frame, a beautiful, standalone headboard is a great choice.

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The Pros:

Cost-Effective: You have the option of getting the headboard alone, which is less of a commitment and more cost-effective. A standalone headboard works with a range of setups, like a box spring or a metal mattress stand, and still looks super stylish from afar.

Easy to Move: Freestanding headboards can be easily attached and detached from a bed frame, making them easy to move.

The Cons:

One-Piece Wonder: A headboard is just that—a headboard, not a full bed frame. If you’re looking for something to also hold your mattress, this might not be the option for you.

What to Look For:

Headboards that are made with solid or kiln-dried hardwoods, or an upholstered headboard that coordinates with your design style and bedding.

Perfect For…

When you’re looking to upgrade from your IKEA furniture on a small budget. Standalone headboards are perfect for guest rooms and kids rooms, too, because they’re simple, clean-lined, cozy, and versatile.

The Canopy Bed Frame

Also known as a four-poster, the canopy bed has been gaining popularity in recent years with more streamlined and modern designs cropping up in the marketplace.

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The Pros:

Stylish Statement: It’s difficult for other bed frames to compete against the ultimate stylishness of a canopy bed frame.

Cozy Vibes: Canopy beds make a room feel immediately cozy thanks to its enveloping design. Add some draped fabric for extra cozy vibes!

The Cons:

Maintenance: Dust tends to collect at the top, so you’ll want to clean it regularly.

Size Restrictions: Many of today’s canopy bed designs are built to fit into spaces both large and small, but you’ll still need tall ceilings in order for a canopy bed to work in a room.

Difficult to Move: Because of their size and construction, canopy beds will require a good amount of assembly to move in and out of your bedroom.

What to Look For:

Consider a modern canopy bed with a built-in headboard for a piece that can evolve with your interiors over time—meaning you can redecorate and it will still blend nicely with your decor.

Perfect For…

Classic and modern bedrooms alike. They’re best in lofty spaces with lots of space and high ceilings, but would also be perfect in a master bedroom that gets a lot of light.

The Wrought-Iron Bed Frame

When it comes to longevity, a wrought-iron bed outshines all other bed designs given its strong metal construction. These beds also come in a wide array of styles.

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The Pros:

Low-Maintenance: They’re extra durable, since metal doesn’t warp or fade over time. Wrought-iron beds don’t require the same amount of cleaning and care that wood and upholstered bed frames do.

Durable: Wrought-iron beds are durable and can hold a lot of weight, making them a great investment that will last for many many years.

Easier to Move: They’re not as heavy as you might think. In fact, they’re often lighter than other solid wood and platform beds.

The Cons:

Limited Styles: While there are lots of wrought-iron bed shapes to choose from, these beds have a very distinct look that can be difficult to decorate around if you’re looking to change up your bedroom design in the future.

More Expensive: Price points vary greatly and wrought-iron beds, in particular, can get super expensive. But that’s because of their high-quality construction, with perfectly welded joints.

What to Look For:

Try wrought-iron bed frame styles that have a painted finish to them for a more versatile option, such as bright, antiqued white.

Perfect For…

Rustic and boho spaces alike. They’re great in starter apartment bedrooms where you want a bed that lasts or in guest bedrooms and kids rooms where you want a bed that’s durable and low-maintenance.

The Daybed

If you love multipurpose furniture pieces, then you’ll love this. A daybed is a bed and sofa in one. Typically a twin-sized bed, it can be used for sleeping, reclining, lounging, or as an extra seating option.

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The pros:

Space conscious: Because of its dual purpose, it’s great for homes with limited space, where you need furniture to pull double duty.

Stylish: Daybeds can be more stylish than a typical bed. They have an almost luxurious feel that begs to be used for lounging.

Good for split-use spaces: Have an office that’s also a guest bedroom? A daybed is the perfect option, as it can be used for seating during the day and a bed at night.

The Cons:

Size: You don’t have a lot of versatility in sizing since daybeds typically only come in twin size frames.

Bulky: Despite holding a twin size mattress, daybeds are bulkier than a typical twin bed, so you’ll need to consider that when thinking of the space where you want to use it.

Party of One: Since daybeds hold twin-size mattresses, they only sleep one person. So, this isn’t ideal in a guest room if you tend to host more than one person at a time!

What to look for:

Daybeds come in so many different styles, so you can definitely find one in the style you want. Look for one that functions for how you’ll use it—like opting for a style with a three-sided “headboard” if you want to primarily use it as a sofa. Many daybeds also have trundle bed add-ons if you want additional sleeping space.

Perfect for:

Small spaces like studio apartments, where your bed also needs to function as your sofa during the day. They’re also great in guest bedrooms and kids rooms—or in home offices and basements where you just want another sleeping option for guests!

The Shelter Headboard

These tall headboards wrap slightly around on the sides—almost like the bedframe version of a wingback chair. They give the illusion of a safe shelter around your bed, enveloping you in cozy comfort.

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The pros:

Cozy: Shelter headboards are typically upholstered. Between that and the shape, it gives a cozy feel to your space.

Style Statement: Their unique design makes a bit of a statement, adding a stylish flair to your bedroom.

The Cons:

Size: These headboards are very large, making them unwieldy to move or less-suited for small spaces.

Accessibility: Because of the wraparound edges, they can block easy access to your nightstand. You’ll either have to float your nightstands a little bit away from the wall to make them more accessible or just be willing to reach a bit further to grab your glass of water at night.

Maintenance: Upholstery tends to need extra cleaning and special care, so these headboards are a bit more high-maintenance than a wooden or metal headboard.

What to look for:

Since these headboards are taller and wider than average, you’ll want to choose a style that fits in your space, considering both ceiling height and the width of your room. You’ll also want to choose a headboard with sides that don’t block too much of your nightstands.

Perfect for:

A master bedroom suite, where you want your bed to make an elegant statement. They’re also perfect for creating that cozy bedroom feel.

Mid-Century Modern Bed Frame

If mid-century modern design is your jam, opt for a mid-century-inspired bed frame! This style has tapered legs, simple forms, and are often made of polished wood in a blonde or acorn finish.

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The pros:

Sleek design: These beds are stylish, sleek, and simple—great for a modern space. Their sleek forms also mean they visually add less clutter, making them a good design choice for small spaces.

Low-maintenance: With simple forms lacking extra ornamentation, they’re easy to maintain and clean.

Versatile: While they have mid-century lines, this style of bed can be incorporated in rooms of many styles, making it a very versatile piece.

The Cons:

Not soft and cozy: While polished wood is beautiful, it doesn’t have the soft, cozy appeal of upholstered bed frames.

Style-specific: While these frames are simple, they definitely have a specific style and vibe, more specific to mid-century, modern, and eclectic spaces.

Price: Solid wood frames can be more expensive than other materials. And since mid-century style is popular right now, price tags for this style are sometimes marked up.

What to look for:

Look for a frame with sleek, modern lines and tapered legs. These styles are often labeled as mid-century in the product description, which can help point you in the right direction. Look for polished natural wood—but make sure it’s not raw with knots, as this gets to be more rustic than modern.

Perfect for:

Modern and minimal spaces, where you want a bed frame that matches the style of your space without being a statement piece of furniture.

The Spindle Bed Frame

Spindle bed frames are classics—and for good reason. They have a timeless, traditional look that’s still very versatile. What is a spindle bed frame, you ask? It’s a bed frame with—you guessed it—spindles, arranged in a row to create a headboard, and often a footboard. Typically these bed frames are wood, but occasionally you’ll see one made of metal.

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The pros:

Open + Airy: The open space between each spindle creates an airy look and feel.

Lightweight: These bed frames are often more lightweight than a typical solid headboard—a great option for those who love to constantly rearrange their room.

The Cons:

Not comfortable for reading: Since the headboard isn’t a solid piece of wood or upholstery, it’s not the most comfortable to lean against. So, those who love to read in bed will either need to pile on the pillows or opt for a different style.

Style-specific: Spindle bed frames are a very specific style, so you don’t have the versatility of it translating as well to new spaces.

What to look for:

Spindle beds can range from very traditional, with slightly more ornate spindles—like the Jenny Lind style—or lean a bit more minimal and Scandinavian modern. You can find spindle beds in natural wood finishes or many-colored finishes.

Perfect for:

Rustic and traditional bedrooms—or even for acing the modern farmhouse trend. This style is great for people who aren’t used for reading a lot in bed, where the less comfortable spindles won’t have a negative impact.

The Bunk Bed

Want to make use of vertical space in a kids bedroom or at the cabin? We love the space-saving features of a bunk bed.

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The pros:

Saves space: The most obvious reason to love a bunk bed? You’re getting two beds for the floor space of one!

Fun for kids: It’s a truth universally known that kids love bunk beds. There’s something so fun and adventurous about them! It’s also a perfect design solve for shared kids bedrooms or when you’re short on space.

Great for sleepovers + guests: Bunk beds offer wonderful extra sleeping options for both guests and when your child’s friends sleepover. Opting for a double bed on the bottom bunk gives even more space and versatility!

The Cons:

Climbing: When it comes to top bunks, there’s no avoiding climbing steps or a ladder to get to it. This isn’t ideal for kids under the age of six.

Not easy to get in and out of bed: Whether you’re on the top or bottom bunk, getting in and out of bed is more difficult in a bunk bed. You either have to climb up and down a ladder or watch your head if you’re on the bottom bunk.

Size: Even though bunk beds take up the same amount of floor space as a normal bed, they’re obviously larger with the top bunk. You’ll want to make sure you have enough ceiling height to accommodate someone sitting up in the top bunk.

What to look for:

Look for style and construction that is easy to use for the age group using it. If you have younger kids, opting for a bunk bed with thicker ladder rungs and side rails. Then, consider if you want a twin over twin bunk bed or a full-size mattress on the bottom bunk, depending on how it will be used. We also recommend choosing a style that can be repurposed as individual beds when your kids grow out of wanting to bunk together. Finally, make sure you choose a set that fits the height of your space and matches the room’s overall design style.

Perfect for:

Households with kids or families that host a lot of guests. We also love using bunk beds in vacation homes and cabins where you’re likely piling lots of people into a smaller space!

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