Add Modern Flair With A Full Size Platform Bed (No Headboard Needed)
Looking to give your bedroom an updated, modern look? Consider a full size platform bed without a headboard. This streamlined style can help open up smaller spaces and highlight other decor elements like artwork, textiles, and lighting. Read on to learn all about platform beds, the benefits of going headboard-free, and tips for styling your new bed.
Platform beds have a solid, flat base that sits close to the ground. Unlike traditional bed frames, they don't require a box spring - the mattress rests right on the platform. Many styles have a low profile, sleek look with the platform measuring under 16 inches high. This can make the bed feel lighter and less bulky in a room.
Benefits of a Full Size Platform Bed Without a Headboard
What are the upsides to choosing a full size platform bed without a headboard?
- More minimalist, modern aesthetic.
- Takes up less visual space than a headboard, making rooms feel more open.
- Allows you to highlight other decor like artwork, mirrors, tapestries.
- Excellent mattress support from solid platform base.
The lack of a headboard creates a lighter, airier look that works perfectly in small spaces or studios. It also draws the eye towards other striking elements you add like textured wallpaper, pendant lighting, or a gallery wall behind the bed.
Add Texture to the Wall Behind the Bed
One way to highlight the wall behind a headboard-less bed is by adding visual texture and dimension. Consider applying a textured wallpaper, creating an eclectic gallery wall, or installing wall sconces or floating shelves. This draws the eye while adding character.
Style the Bed Itself
With no headboard, the bed itself takes center stage. Have fun styling it up with plenty of pillows, throws, and other decorative accents. Overstuff the bed with pillows of varying sizes, shapes and colors for maximum impact. Drape a throw at the foot of the bed - a chunky knit or faux fur style adds coziness. Don't be afraid to layer in touches like throw blankets, floor cushions, or a bench at the foot of the bed.
Incorporate Statement Lighting
In small bedrooms, bedside table lamps alone may not provide enough light. Counteract this by adding eye-catching pendant lights, sconces or floor lamps. Opt for shapely globe pendants, vintage-inspired lamps, or sculptural tree lamp designs. Position lighting to cast a warm glow over the bed and surrounding space. You can even install color-changing bulbs for fun.
Maximize Storage
Lacking a headboard means you lose that built-in storage space. Get creative with under-bed storage containers, wall-mounted shelving, or storage benches. Look for a platform bed with built-in drawers or hide compartments behind headboard art. Wall shelves staggered above the bed create an attractive display and provide storage for books, plants and accessories.
Choosing the Right Bed Frame and Mattress
Pay attention to bed frame height and mattress thickness when selecting a platform bed without a headboard. Look for low profile platform beds ranging from 16-24 inches tall - lower than 16 may be uncomfortable to get in and out of. Make sure your mattress height works with the bed frame height.
Seek out platform beds with built-in storage like drawers, cubbies or shelves. Materials like wood, metal and upholstery each have different aesthetic appeals. Just ensure the frame provides even weight distribution and ample mattress support.
When it comes to the mattress, look for one sized correctly to your bed frame. Foam, latex, hybrid, and innerspring mattresses can all work well with platform beds. Focus on comfort features like responsiveness, contouring, and motion isolation.
Bedding and Linens for a Headboard-Free Bed
Choosing the right bedding and linens helps pull together a headboard-less bed into a unified styled space. Look for duvet covers or comforters with some visual weight and texture to compensate for the missing headboard. Patterned and textured fabrics add interest. For blankets, look for chunky knits or faux furs draped artfully at the foot. Opt for lots of plush euro shams and decorative pillows in shades that pop against your color scheme. Quality sheets feel soft against skin and complete the bed.
Tie everything together with final styling touches for a relaxed yet elegant look. Stick to a cohesive color palette of 2-4 complementary hues. Incorporate natural textures like linen, cotton, wool and wood. Display fresh flowers and flowering plants like orchids or air plants on the wall shelves floating above the bed. Diffuse calming essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus for aromatherapy benefits. The result is a headboard-free bed that feels modern, comfy and peaceful.
Creating a stylish, modern bedroom without a traditional headboard is totally doable. Focus on selecting a low profile platform bed frame that provides excellent mattress support. Have fun styling the bed itself with plush pillows, throws and linens. Incorporate statement lighting and plenty of wall shelves for a decorative focal point. The end result is a lighter, airier space that highlights your personal style.