When planning a bedroom renovation, one decision often shapes everything else: the bed. More than just a place to sleep, the bed is the visual and functional centrepiece of the room. Get it right, and the rest of your design can fall into place.
According to the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS), there was a 25% rise in home improvement activity between 2020 and 2023, and bedroom upgrades remain among the most popular projects. As our homes have become more multifunctional, so too have our bedrooms. They’re no longer just for sleep, but for retreat, work, and relaxation, and the right bed plays a huge part in making that possible.
Ziplink beds are one option gaining popularity, especially for multi-use or guest spaces. These beds allow two single mattresses to be joined or separated, offering versatility without compromising on comfort or design.
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to choose a bed that works beautifully with your space, fits your style, and supports the practical needs of your home.
1. Start With the Layout
Before you dive into picking bed frames or fabric swatches, it’s important to look at the bigger picture: your bedroom layout. Whether you’re working with an architect or designing solo, the bed’s position will set the tone for the entire space.
Ask yourself:
- Is there enough room to move comfortably around the bed?
- Will it allow for easy access to wardrobes, drawers or built-in storage?
- Does natural light fall nicely around where you plan to position the bed?
- Will a headboard be visible and proportional to the space?
In smaller bedrooms, oversized frames can feel overwhelming and limit your options for storage or bedside furniture. In contrast, placing a small bed in a large master bedroom can make the space feel underused. It’s all about balance.
If you’re planning a full renovation, it’s worth considering 3D room planning or scale drawings to explore different bed placements before committing.
2. Choose a Style That Complements Your Interior Vision
Once you’ve nailed the layout, the fun part begins: finding a bed that fits your style.
Whether your interior leans minimalist, traditional, or somewhere in between, the bed is often a great opportunity to create a focal point. A striking headboard, for instance, can bring life to otherwise plain walls.
Some quick tips:
- Upholstered headboards work well in soft, neutral schemes.
- Wood or metal frames suit modern or industrial interiors.
- Bold colours or prints can inject personality, but they’re less adaptable if you like to switch up your scheme over time.
- Neutral tones offer more long-term flexibility and pair well with seasonal styling updates.
As mentioned earlier, flexible bed options like ziplink beds are a smart solution in rooms that need to serve more than one purpose. They allow your space to transition easily between a twin or double setup.
3. Get the Size Right — for Comfort and Function
It’s not just about how the bed looks, comfort and practicality matter too.
Standard UK sizes (single, double, king, and super king) are a great place to start. But if you’re working with a bespoke space or want to maximise luxury, you might consider a custom or oversized bed.
Whatever you choose, allow for at least 60–70cm of clearance around the bed for comfortable movement and access to furniture.
In smaller rooms, this may mean opting for a standard double or small double to keep the space feeling open. And if storage is tight, consider a bed with built-in drawers or a lift-up frame, which helps you stay organised without adding extra furniture.
One final detail: in period properties or loft conversions, bed height and headboard scale can make a big difference. A high headboard in a low-ceiling room, for example, can look out of place, while a taller space might benefit from something more substantial to help ground the design.
In Summary: Your Bed as a Design Anchor
Choosing a bed during a home renovation is about more than just sleep, it’s about setting the tone for the whole room. The best bed design balances comfort, proportion, style, and storage.
As with any design decision, start with how you live. Is this a main bedroom, guest room, or a multifunctional space? What’s your style, and how long do you want it to last before a refresh?
With some thoughtful planning, your new bed can transform your bedroom into a space that feels considered, calm, and entirely your own.
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