What Is a Divan Bed?

A divan bed consists of an upholstered divan base designed to support a mattress.

Unlike a traditional bed frame, a divan has a compact base that sits underneath the mattress and can incorporate useful built-in storage.

Depending on the design you choose, your divan bed can include:

• Drawer storage
• Ottoman lift-up storage
• A matching upholstered headboard
• Different fabrics and colours
• A mattress
• Different bed sizes and configurations

This versatility makes divan beds suitable for everything from smaller bedrooms and guest rooms to larger master bedrooms.

Why Choose a Divan Bed?

One of the biggest advantages of a divan bed is that you can combine sleeping space and bedroom storage without needing additional floor space for separate storage furniture.

A divan bed could be a good choice if you're looking for:

• A practical bed with storage
• A divan bed with drawers
• An ottoman storage bed
• A compact bed base
• An upholstered bed
• A bed and mattress set
• A bed with a statement headboard
• Extra under-bed storage
• A choice of fabrics and colours

The best configuration will depend on your bedroom size, storage requirements and how frequently you want to access the items stored underneath your bed.

Divan Bed Storage Options

Storage is one of the main reasons people choose a divan bed.

The two options worth considering are drawer divan beds and ottoman lift-up divan beds.

Divan Beds With Drawers

A divan bed with drawers has storage drawers incorporated directly into the base.

Rather than using separate under-bed storage boxes, simply pull out the drawer whenever you need access to your belongings.

Drawer storage can be useful for:

• Bedding
• Clothing
• Towels
• Shoes
• Children's belongings
• Spare bed linen
• Smaller everyday items

The biggest advantage is convenience.

If you regularly access the items stored underneath your bed, drawers can be quicker and easier than opening a complete lift-up storage base.

2 Drawer Divan Beds

A 2 drawer divan bed provides useful additional storage while leaving part of the base without drawers.

This can work well when you don't require maximum storage or when the layout of your bedroom prevents drawers being used on every side.

4 Drawer Divan Beds

A 4 drawer divan bed provides additional separate storage compartments and can be particularly useful when you want to organise different items.

Remember that you'll need sufficient floor space beside the bed for the drawers to open properly.

Measure around bedside cabinets, wardrobes, radiators and other furniture before ordering.

Ottoman Divan Beds

If you're looking for a divan bed with maximum storage, consider an ottoman divan bed.

An ottoman bed uses a lift-up mechanism to raise the mattress platform and provide access to a large storage compartment underneath.

Because you're using much more of the space beneath the mattress, ottoman storage is particularly useful for bulky items including:

• Duvets
• Pillows
• Blankets
• Seasonal clothing
• Spare bedding
• Towels
• Storage bags

An ottoman storage bed can be especially useful in smaller bedrooms where additional wardrobes, drawers or storage furniture would take up valuable floor space.

Ottoman Bed vs Drawer Divan Bed

Trying to choose between an ottoman bed and a divan bed with drawers?

Think about how you'll actually use the storage.

Choose an Ottoman Divan Bed If:

You want to maximise the amount of under-bed storage available.

Ottoman storage works particularly well for larger items and for bedrooms where there isn't enough clearance beside the bed to comfortably open drawers.

Choose a Drawer Divan Bed If:

You want convenient access to smaller items that you use more regularly.

Drawers divide your belongings into separate compartments and can be opened without lifting the mattress platform.

Which Gives You More Storage?

An ottoman divan generally makes use of more of the internal space underneath the mattress than individual drawers.

However, more storage isn't automatically better.

If you're opening the storage every day, the convenience of drawers may be more important than maximum capacity.

What Divan Bed Size Should I Choose?

Choosing the correct divan bed size is just as important as choosing the style.

Common UK bed sizes include:

Single Divan Bed

A single divan bed is a practical option for children's bedrooms, guest rooms and smaller bedrooms.

Adding built-in storage can be particularly useful where floor space is limited.

Small Double Divan Bed

A small double divan bed can provide additional sleeping space without occupying as much room as a standard double.

This can make it a useful choice for compact bedrooms.

Double Divan Bed

A double divan bed is one of the most versatile choices for UK bedrooms.

Choose from different headboards, fabrics and storage configurations to create a bed that suits your room.

A double divan bed with drawers provides convenient storage, while a double ottoman divan bed can provide considerably more hidden storage.

King Size Divan Bed

A king size divan bed gives you additional sleeping space and can create a more substantial centrepiece in a larger bedroom.

Combine a king size base with an upholstered headboard, mattress and your preferred storage configuration.

Super King Divan Bed

For larger bedrooms, a super king divan bed provides generous sleeping space and creates an impressive focal point.

Always check your bedroom measurements and delivery access carefully before ordering a larger bed.

Divan Bed With Mattress or Base Only?

Another important decision is whether you need a divan bed with mattress or simply a divan base.

If you already own a suitable mattress in the correct size, a divan base may be all you need.

If you're replacing your complete bed, choosing a divan bed and mattress set can make the process simpler.

When choosing a mattress, consider:

• Mattress size
• Firmness
• Support
• Mattress depth
• Sleeping position
• Whether one or two people will regularly use the mattress
• Your individual comfort preference

The most expensive or firmest mattress isn't automatically the best choice. The right mattress is the one that provides the comfort and support you prefer.

Choosing a Headboard for Your Divan Bed

A headboard can transform a simple divan base into the main feature of your bedroom.

At Highstreet Beds, you can explore different upholstered bed and headboard designs to complement your interior.

Consider the:

Height – Taller headboards can create a statement but require sufficient wall and ceiling space.

Width – Decide whether you prefer a headboard close to the width of your bed or a wider statement design.

Design – Panels, vertical lines and other upholstered details create very different appearances.

Fabric – Different materials can dramatically change the overall character of your bed.

Colour – Consider your walls, flooring, curtains and existing bedroom furniture.

Before choosing an oversized headboard, measure the delivery route as well as your bedroom.

Choosing Your Divan Bed Fabric

Upholstery gives you the opportunity to make your divan bed complement your bedroom.

Depending on the bed and available options, Highstreet Beds offers a selection of fabrics and colours across our range.

When choosing your fabric, consider whether you want the bed to blend naturally with the room or become a statement feature.

Neutral colours can provide a timeless appearance, while stronger colours and textured fabrics can create a more distinctive centrepiece.

Whenever possible, see fabrics in person before making your final decision.

Measure Your Bedroom Before Buying

Before ordering any single, double, king size or super king divan bed, measure your bedroom carefully.

Check:

• Bed width
• Bed length
• Walking space around the bed
• Headboard height
• Bedroom doors
• Wardrobe doors
• Radiators
• Bedside furniture
• Drawer opening space
• Hallways
• Staircases
• Delivery access

If you're ordering a divan bed with drawers, make sure there is sufficient space for the drawers to open fully.

If you're ordering an ottoman lift-up bed, consider the opening direction and available clearance.

And if you're choosing a large statement headboard, make sure it can physically reach the bedroom.

Are Divan Beds Good for Small Bedrooms?

A divan storage bed can be an excellent choice for a small bedroom because the area underneath your mattress can double as valuable storage space.

For particularly tight rooms, an ottoman divan can be worth considering because you don't need the same side clearance required to pull out large drawers.

A small double divan bed with storage can also provide a useful compromise when you want more sleeping space than a single without moving up to a full double.

The best solution depends on your room dimensions and furniture layout.

Are Divan Beds Good for Storage?

Yes. Storage flexibility is one of the main reasons to consider a divan.

Choose drawers if you want quick everyday access.

Choose an ottoman if you want maximum hidden under-bed storage.

Before deciding, think about what you'll actually put underneath the bed.

Clothes and smaller everyday items may work particularly well in drawers, while bulky duvets, pillows and seasonal items can benefit from a larger ottoman compartment.

How to Choose the Best Divan Bed

There isn't one single best divan bed for everybody.

The best bed for you depends on:

• Your bedroom size
• Preferred bed size
• Storage requirements
• Mattress preference
• Interior style
• Fabric and colour
• Headboard design
• Available floor space
• Delivery access

Rather than choosing on appearance alone, think about how the bed will function every day.

A beautiful four-drawer divan isn't particularly useful if your bedside furniture prevents two drawers from opening.

Likewise, paying for large ottoman storage may be unnecessary if you don't actually need additional bedroom storage.

Buying a Divan Bed Online

Buying a divan bed online gives you the convenience of exploring different designs, storage configurations, colours and sizes from home.

Before ordering, carefully check your chosen:

• Bed size
• Storage option
• Mattress
• Headboard
• Fabric
• Colour
• Delivery requirements

If you're uncertain about your configuration, contact us before ordering.

Visit Our Divan Bed Shop & Showroom in Leeds

Sometimes the easiest way to choose a new bed is to see your options in person.

Visit the Highstreet Beds showroom in Leeds to explore our beds, storage options, mattresses, fabrics and headboard designs.

Seeing an ottoman storage bed open or a drawer divan in person can make it much easier to understand which configuration will work best in your bedroom.

Highstreet Beds Ltd
55 Barkly Road, Beeston
Leeds, LS11 7EN

Open 7 days a week

No appointment is required.

If you're searching for divan beds in Leeds, storage beds in Leeds or a bed and mattress showroom in Leeds, visit Highstreet Beds and let our team help you explore the available options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Divan Beds

What is a divan bed?

A divan bed uses an upholstered base to support the mattress. Depending on the model, the base can also incorporate drawers or lift-up ottoman storage.

Can you get a divan bed with storage?

Yes. Divan storage options can include built-in drawers and ottoman lift-up storage, depending on the bed.

Is an ottoman divan better than drawers?

It depends on your requirements. Ottoman storage generally provides more open storage space, while drawers provide quick access to smaller everyday items.

Can you get a divan bed with a mattress?

Yes. Divan beds can be purchased with compatible mattress options, depending on the product.

Are divan beds suitable for small bedrooms?

They can be. Built-in storage helps make use of the space underneath the mattress, which can reduce the need for additional bedroom storage furniture.

What size divan bed should I buy?

Choose a size that provides enough sleeping space while still leaving sufficient room to comfortably move around your bedroom. Measure the room before ordering rather than relying on the size of your existing bed.

Should I choose a double or king size divan bed?

If your bedroom has sufficient space, a king size gives you additional sleeping width. A double can be more suitable where maintaining floor and walking space is important.

Do divan drawers beds need extra space?

Yes. You'll need sufficient clearance beside the bed to pull the drawers out. Check bedside tables and other furniture before choosing your drawer configuration.

Is an ottoman storage bed good for a small bedroom?

Ottoman storage can work particularly well in smaller bedrooms because the storage is accessed by lifting the bed rather than pulling large drawers into the surrounding floor space.

Can I see divan beds before buying?

Yes. Visit the Highstreet Beds showroom in Leeds to explore our beds and available storage options in person.

Find Your Perfect Divan Bed

Whether you're looking for a double divan bed with storage, king size divan bed, divan bed with mattress, drawer divan bed or ottoman storage bed, choosing the right configuration can give you a bed that looks great while making better use of your bedroom.

Explore our collection of divan beds at Highstreet Beds and choose your preferred size, design and available options.

Or visit our Leeds bed showroom and speak to our team before ordering.

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